Billie M. Snelson’s legacy as a coach, teacher, and mentor spans nearly four decades in Pasadena ISD. A standout basketball player at Oklahoma Baptist University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education in 1948, Billie went on to coach volleyball at Sam Rayburn and South Houston High Schools and later taught at Pasadena High School.

Known for her commanding presence and high expectations, she built teams that thrived on discipline, trust, and respect. Former players recall how her perfectionist standards pushed them to new heights, and how her presence in the gym demanded focus the moment she walked in. More than a coach, she shaped character—earning the admiration of students, athletes, referees, and fellow coaches alike.

Her influence extended to her family as well; both of her sons, Andy and John Snelson, excelled in athletics and went on to successful careers, carrying forward the values she instilled. Over her 39-year career, Billie left a lasting mark on countless students whose lives were changed by her guidance.

Billie passed away in 2018 at the age of 90, but her impact endures—as a mother, grandmother, teacher, coach, and friend whose legacy continues to inspire.

A standout athlete at Sam Rayburn High School, Andy Snelson excelled in both football and track, leaving a mark on Pasadena ISD athletics that still stands today. A three-year football letterman and multiple-time All-District selection, he was also an All-State sprinter who set blistering records of 9.4 seconds in the 100-yard dash and 21.6 seconds in the 220-yard dash—times that remain among the fastest in district history.

Snelson was coached by Odell Harrison and Pasadena ISD Hall of Famer Wilburn “Willy” Raby, who proudly showcased his 1973 and 1974 track teams across the state. After high school, Andy continued his athletic career at the University of Houston under coaches Johnny Morris and Tom Tellez, and later at Odessa College under Coach James Segrest.

Now retired, Andy resides in Pasadena, where his legacy as one of the district’s premier sprinters continues to inspire future generations.

John Snelson’s Pasadena roots run deep, beginning with his standout years at Sam Rayburn High School. A three-year starter under Coach Charlie Lyles, he built an impressive football résumé while also excelling in baseball. A four-year letterman, he was a key member of Rayburn’s 1985 baseball team that advanced to the Class 5A state championship under Coach Al Campo.

Transitioning from player to coach, Snelson helped launch Pasadena Memorial High School’s football program in 2003 as defensive coordinator before taking over as head coach in 2006. Under his leadership, the Mavericks made history in 2007 by reaching the third round of the playoffs—the school district’s deepest run since the 1960s. In 2009, he guided Memorial to its first district championship with a 6-1 record in 22-5A, highlighted by victories over Pearland and La Porte.

In 2012, Snelson took the helm at Dickinson High School, where he has since become one of the winningest coaches in Gator history, cementing his reputation as one of the region’s premier high school football leaders.