Wayne Martin Snuggs

Obituary

Wayne Martin Snuggs was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on August 27, 1943, to Waymon and Bobbie Snuggs. Six years later, his brother, Michael Lee Snuggs, joined the family. Wayne spent his childhood in Forest, Hattiesburg, and Jackson, Mississippi.
Wayne attended Bailey Junior High School and graduated from Murrah High School in 1961, where he played football and baseball. He went on to earn his degree from Mississippi State University in 1965. A devoted Mississippi State supporter, Wayne rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Bulldogs and remained a passionate sports fan throughout his life.
In August 1965, Wayne married Betty Guyse in Jackson, Mississippi. Shortly thereafter, Wayne began attending the University of Mississippi School of Law, while Betty returned to MSCW (Mississippi State College for Women) to complete her studies and student teaching.
Upon graduating from law school, Wayne and Betty moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where Wayne began his military service and attended Army boot camp. They later relocated to Hopewell and Fort Lee, Virginia, where their son, David, was born in November 1968. Soon after, Wayne learned he would be deployed to Vietnam. During this challenging period, the family returned to Mississippi while Wayne served his tour of duty. In December 1971, their daughter, Kristy, was born, completing their family.
The family made Jackson their home for the next 25 years. During that time, Betty taught school while Wayne built a distinguished legal career in the Criminal Division of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. After more than 30 years of service under five different Attorneys General, he retired as Head of the Criminal Division. Throughout his career, Wayne earned a reputation for exceptional knowledge, integrity, and legal expertise. His counsel was highly respected, and his insight was frequently sought by attorneys and law enforcement professionals throughout Mississippi.
Wayne was a man of many interests and passions. He loved the law, Mississippi State University athletics, and the Dallas Cowboys. He enjoyed fishing and collecting music of all genres. Above all, he was devoted to his family.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother, Sarah Snuggs, and his brother, Michael “Mike” Snuggs.
Wayne passed away peacefully at home on June 22, 2026. He is survived by his wife, Betty Snuggs; his son, David Snuggs; his daughter, Kristy Pace (Zack); and his granddaughters, Anna Pace and Reagan Pace. He is also survived by his son-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, dear friends, and former colleagues.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Home Instead Caregivers and Enhabit Hospice for the compassionate and professional care provided to Wayne and his family.
Wayne and Betty chose to donate their bodies to UMMC. In lieu of a funeral service, a Celebration of Life will be held on July 19, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Bellevue Lake Caroline Clubhouse, 667 Bellevue Drive, Madison, Mississippi.
Guests are invited to wear their favorite Mississippi State or Hawaiian shirt in honor of Wayne’s life and spirit. Hail State!
Light refreshments will be served. Family and friends are encouraged to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived.

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