BASTROP COUNTY, Texas — Bastrop County Commissioner Gary “Bubba” Snowden died on Thursday. 

Snowden was commissioner of Precinct 4. It includes Elgin and the northwest part of the county.

“We are saddened by his death and pray for peace for his wife and family,” Judge Paul Pape said in a statement. “Bubba served as Bastrop County Commissioner for a little over 6 years. He loved his constituents and was popular throughout the Elgin area. We will miss his smile, generous spirit, and dedication to the things he held dear.”

Mel Hammer posted the following statement on Facebook:

"As I sit here reflecting on the loss of Commissioner Gary “Bubba” Snowden last night, I recall the first time I met him at his Car Wash on Main Street in Elgin. He wash cleaning it up and making repairs. As always, he was a “hands on” owner/manager of the various businesses that he owned or worked at. He was also a soldier who served his country in Vietnam. He continued that service to God, family and country while serving Bastrop County as Commissioner of Precinct 4. Again, as a “hands on” Commissioner, he drove from Elgin to Bastrop almost everyday to check on what had come into his office and to personally return phone calls to the residents of Pct. 4 who had concerns. My prayers go out to his family whom he loved with all his heart and to Bubba who will now take his skills and work ethics to heaven where he can look over his family! God’s speed my friend. You will be missed."

The Bastrop County Republican Party also released a statement:

"It is with a heavy heart that we learn of the passing of Precinct 4 Commissioner Bubba Snowden. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Commissioner Snowden was a devoted public servant who cared deeply about his constituents. He was first elected to the position in 2012 and had just secured a third term in the November election. He was a champion for the Bastrop Animal Shelter and was instrumental in overseeing the shelter as well as obtaining necessary repairs for the buildings. In addition to his active involvement in the Elgin community, he was a devoted family man who was, according to his family, its heart and soul. Condolences have been pouring in on social media with many expounding on his generosity and support for the community and county. He will be deeply missed."