Local cancer survivor and veteran celebrates 102nd birthday

COLUMBUS, Ga. ( WRBL ) — He’s a father of five, a cancer survivor, and a World War II Veteran.

And on Monday, he turned 102 years old.

James Sneed is a Phenix City man who’s been living quite a full life.

Last month, he was inducted into the Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, where he won a “Religion Award” for his work as Chairman of the Deacon Board in his hometown of Magnolia, Alabama.

Before Sneed retired, he worked in the Wood and Paper industry. He was also a member and chaplain of the Sweetwater and Surginer Fire and Rescue Squad.

This month, he added another candle to his birthday cake, as he donned a shirt reading “At 102 years old, I have EARNED the right to do whatever I want.”

While Sneed celebrated the big day at DA Turner YMCA, he told WRBL he’s not tired.

“I got my teeth, [I can] eat anything I want,” said Sneed, surrounded by friends and family. “I got my wheelchair, I still have got a mind. I can answer questions.”

Sneed’s celebration was completed with a spirited rendition of the classic “Happy Birthday” tune.

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