Mary Evelina Rossi Snodgrass

Mary Evelina Rossi Snodgrass, a beacon of joy and grace, passed away peacefully on Feb. 21, 2025 in Bryan, Texas, at the age of 100. Born on Jan. 18, 1925 in Stuart, Fla., Mary Evelina, known affectionately to friends and family as Evelina, led a life as vibrant and daring as her performances in the circus ring.

Evelina was married to Robert Snodgrass for 52 years upon his passing, the cherished daughter of Mary and Joe Rossi, and the younger sister to Rex and Mark Rossi and big sister to Jimmy Rossi, all of whom preceded her in death. Her father, an immigrant from Italy, role as a bandleader in the circus infused her early years with a sense of adventure and the arts that would define her life. Evelina’s talents as an aerial performer were legendary; she mesmerized audiences on the trapeze, the web, and with her astonishing ability to hang by her jaw. Her equestrian skills were no less impressive, as she rode and performed on horses and elephants with the ease of a seasoned acrobat.

The love story between Evelina and her late husband, Robert Snodgrass, was one for the ages. They would have been married for nearly 74 years, a testament to their enduring devotion to one another. Throughout Robert’s military career, the couple lived in various locations before finally settling in Bryan, Texas, in the 1960s. It was there that Evelina opened “Eve’s” dress boutique, a place where her impeccable taste and friendly service became well known throughout the community. Evelina’s legacy is carried on by her loving family. She is survived by her son, Mark Snodgrass; her daughter, Gina Davis; and her brother, Benny Rossi. Her family remembers her as the epitome of love, kindness, and friendliness, qualities that she embodied throughout her life.

Graveside arrangements for Evelina have been entrusted to Prater-Lampton-Mills & Coffey Funeral Home and will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Hugo, with interment following in Showman’s Rest.