Obituary: Dougie “Diamond” Snedden, 70

Hundreds of mourners have turned out to pay their respects to Dougie “Diamond” Snedden – a stalwart of the Junior football scene – who has passed away aged 70.

The former Bo’ness United chairman, known as “Mr Bo’ness”, was laid to rest wearing his club tie with a Super League medal and a hip flask of whisky at a packed Carriden Church and later new Carriden Cemetery on Wednesday.

Mr Snedden was said to be fondly remembered by all as a man who lived a full life and who was always quick to help others.

He is survived by his wife, Alison, and children David, 44, Pauline MacNaughton, 41, Barry, 37, and Jennifer, 30.

He is also remembered by his sister Iris and nephew Richard from the US.

Current Bo’ness United club secretary, Robert Snedden (no relation), said his predecessor had sat on the committee for more than 25 years and served as chairman “for at least 18”.

“He was a great club stalwart and he’ll be sadly missed,” said Mr Snedden.

“He was a real people person, as shown by the hundreds of people who turned up at his funeral.

“The club would like to offer its condolences to his 
family.”

The grandfather-of-three passed away peacefully in the Western General’s intensive care unit after being admitted last month suffering bleeding on the brain. He later developed pneumonia.

It is understood he died surrounded by his family.

His wife Alison said her Fountainpark Crescent home had been filled with bouquets and condolence cards since he passed.

“Dougie just seemed to have that way of making folk feel that they meant a lot to him, and it mattered what they said or did,” she said.

A Facebook page has been set up in his memory upon which friend Bryan Copeland wrote the message: “Was good to see a good turnout at the park this morning.

“U may have passed 1 final time Dougie but u will never be forgotten by the BU for all u done. Absolute BU legend, true gentleman and all round great person.”

Another message by Dom Baird said: “RIP Dougie, done so much for the club and the town, will be missed! Thoughts go to your family.”

A keen darts player in The Whinns pub, he also enjoyed singing with his band Pegasus.

Mr Snedden and his wife first met at a dance in Linlithgow and it would have been their 47th wedding anniversary next Tuesday.To mark his passing Chinese lanterns were released at Bo’ness United’s home ground of Newtown Park where a flag flew at half mast.

It is understood Mr Sneddon overcame a stroke in 2008.

Bo’ness United won a number of honours during Mr Sneddon’s tenure, including the Super League title in season 2010-11, and lifted the Scottish Junior Cup in 1983-84.