Mrs. Michelle M. (Dye) Snyder

UTICA - Mrs. Michelle M. (Dye) Snyder’s spirit rose above to the Lord when she passed away on Monday, July 10, 2017 at the age of 51. Her passing occurred at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her loving family by her side, and her loved ones feel that her spirit remains within them, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Utica on July 3, 1966, Michelle was the daughter of Joline (Nickerson) Dye and the late Edward A. Dye. She also knew the love of her step-mother, Donna M. Dye. She was raised in Frankfort and graduated from Frankfort-Schuyler High School/Class of 1985. During her teenage years, she had lots of friends and loads of happy memories. At one time, she was married to Richard D. Snyder and to their relationship came the blessing of five children. Rich knew Shelly’s generous heart, and they were fortunate to remain good friends to the very end. Shelly began her working career at the YWCA and the Head Start Program and later at The ARC of Oneida/Lewis County. The last position she held at the ARC was Resident Manager of Parkside Court. She was trustworthy and unconditional in her love. She also embraced her God-given talents with a passion and she never gave up on anyone. She was a nurturing person on so many levels, at home, at work, or with friends. She was a “wonderful mother” and her children bestowed her that title and voiced their accolades with the greatest sincerity. She was a confidant to all her family and she was your best resource if you were in a predicament or had a problem. Shelly had a strong will that was tempered by her compassion. Her sister spoke of her as a good soul and a great friend… she would ‘forgive and forget’. She had a great energy and optimism, and she enjoyed a good time. She loved to sing, dance, read crime novels, and write poetry. She even had a poem published. She had a considerable, stylish shoe collection as good as any, and better than most. But one of her greatest attributes was being an articulate talker, on the phone or across the table — she got her point across! She also listened carefully before stating her opinion. Shelly was a proud mom and even prouder when her grandchildren came along. They called her “MeMe” and she was so creative with this second generation. She enjoyed the moments she shared with them and she was fair with her time and generosity when it came to her grandkids. Shelly’s house was a home, a place where anyone could find shelter and love. She was the “holiday gal”, cooking, decorating for Christmas and all its glory, and teaching the little ones to know the meaning of the holiday season. She always found a way for things to happen, with happiness and harmony. Michelle’s family functioned as a team, so she was blessed with a great support system that made life a little easier for her when she needed a lift. Although she believed in a benevolent God, in her illness she questioned herself. But at the end, she openly spoke of her place in Heaven. Her greatest concern was who was going to watch over her children. Michelle is survived by her mother, Joline Dye; her children, Joseph “Joey” Dye, Cassandra “Cassie” Snyder, Richard “Richie” Snyder, Philip “Phil” Snyder and fiancée Kara Johnson, and Brianna “Bri” Snyder; her grandchildren, Katerina “Kat” Lee; Anthony “Tony”, and Elliott “Eli” Snyder; and Giuliana “Gugu” Snyder; her sisters and brother-in-law, Annie “Nan” Terhune, and Debbie and Mike Vosberg; and her brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Patty Crewell. She also leaves her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, especially Veronica, and Diane and Jim; several godchildren; her best friend, Monica Olivadoti who was a comfort to the entire family; and her forever friend, Michele O’Reilly-Kim who kept in close contact, was supportive, and tried to help in any way she could. The family extends their appreciation to Dr. Sultana Razia for her medical care; the nurses of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Health Care Center/ICU with special mention of Shelly, Alex, and Bri who were so attentive, supportive, empathetic, and kind. Their hearts and souls were in their tasks. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-6:30 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Michelle’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday evening at 6:30 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. Abe Esper officiating the ceremony.

Mrs. Michelle M. (Dye) Snyder

July 3, 1966 - July 10, 2017