Shirley Mae Snyder

11/6/1924 - 5/21/2017

Shirley was born at home in Kersey, Co. to Wilbur L. and Maude E. (Porter) Roberts, the first of three children. They settled in Evans, where Shirley met a dark haired, 13 year old ornery boy, Loren E. Snyder, who became her neighbor, friend, schoolmate and later, sweetheart. As a young girl, Shirley was a talented violin and piano player, and dance student. She declined Loren’s marriage proposal during his service in the US Navy, but when he returned on his last leave in his naval uniform, she proposed to him! They were married 11/21/1944 in Evans at the home of his parents. A year later, after Loren’s honorable discharge, Shirley and their new baby girl welcomed him home.

The couple journeyed to Vancouver, WA., bought a house, and in the following 12 years, added four more children to their family. During that time, Shirley was introduced to Jehovah’s Witnesses and her interest continued throughout the years. In 1960, she helped pack up family and belongings into their Mercury and pulling a small utility trailer, they ventured back to Colorado. Shirley enjoyed her domestic pleasures in raising their children in a loving environment he and appreciated the family’s blessings of some occasional travel, fun vacations, mountain camping adventures, the experience of growing their own vegetables and sharing musical skills during family gatherings. When her family desired to reside in rural atmosphere, Shirley agreed to relocate to a house on 2 ½ acres in Henderson, CO. There the family experienced the excitement and labors of country living, while the three younger “girls” were involved in horse riding activities, events and competitions. She remained supportive and encouraging to her children as each one left the home to begin their own adventures in life.

Shirley took in her ill mother-in-law and when her own mother required home care, she and Loren sold their residence to take on that responsibility, continuing to live in Evans until their deaths.

Shirley had many fond memories, including a 50th Anniversary gift from her children for a Puerto Vallarta cruise. She enjoyed music & dance, as well as crocheting items to give as gifts. She found reading to be soothing. She later attempted canvas brush painting as her eyesight began to decline. She always treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren and extended family. Recently, she was able to travel to Arizona to visit her son, whom she hadn’t seen for many years.

Shirley believed spiritual needs were important so whenever a change of residence occurred, she made a point to resume the family’s Bible Study. She attended the Greeley South Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and was baptized in Greeley on Nov. 12, 1998.

Shirley was known for her kind heart, sweet disposition and smile. She often described her own situation later in life with the expression, “I’m still kicking, just not very high!”

Those close to Shirley, knew she “fought the good fight” and endured with incredible strength, yet still displayed her usual loving disposition and gentle, blue eyes as she thanked those caring for her.

Shortly before her death, Shirley and her daughters were considering the wonderful blessings to be enjoyed in Paradise. During the conversation, Shirley drifted off to sleep. After a short nap, she awoke and asked, “Is this the new world?”, demonstrating her complete faith and confidence in Jehovah’s promises! She ran the race determined not to quit, then successfully crossed the finish line.

The family thanks all who shared a part of themselves in giving joy to Shirley’s life! *******************************************************************

A small gathering for family is planned at Shirley’s home after the service.

Cremation is arranged by the Allnutt Funeral Service in Greeley. A memorial is planned for June 3, 2017 at 1:30pm in the Greeley South Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3408 W. 34th St Rd, Greeley, CO.