Lavada Montez Swaim White Sneed

Lavada Montez Swaim White Sneed, 91, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026.

She was born on September 26, 1934, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Mabel Miller Swaim and Virgil Lee Swaim. She lived a life defined by strength, devotion, and unwavering love for her family.

Montez was a hard worker in every sense of the word, approaching life with passion, thoughtfulness, and determination. She worked for Western Electric/AT&T for 38 years and was an active member of the Pioneers. Montez loved to travel and shop. She especially enjoyed going to shows, movies, and concerts. She was known for speaking her mind and always having the last word. Those who knew and loved her understood that her strong spirit was matched only by the ferocity with which she loved. If Montez was on your side, you could be certain you were on the winning side.

Montez was preceded in death by her husbands, Paul Monroe White, to whom she was married for 38 years, George Marvin Sneed, Jr., with whom she shared 19 years; and by her sister, Brenda Kay Barlow Brooks.

Her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. She is survived by her beloved son, Randall White, and daughter-in-law, Susan; her cherished grandchildren, Stephen White and Ashley Terranova; her seven great-grandchildren; her nieces, Joy Sink and Carol Sigmon, and their families. She also leaves behind extended family and friends who will deeply miss her steady presence, wisdom, and strength.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Hayworth Miller Silas Creek Chapel, 3315 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC. A graveside burial will follow the service at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive guests an hour prior to the service.

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is respectfully serving the family.