Barbara Ellen Snider

April 10,1937 - April 28, 2025 (88)

“Loved by Everyone and the Heart of Her Family”

Barbara Ellen Snider, a bright light in the lives of all who knew her and the heart of her large, loving family, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, surrounded by her children. She was 88 years old and left this world just as she lived in beautiful, loved, and deeply cherished.

Born on April 10, 1937, in Indian River, Michigan, to Mildred Leola Parrott and George Grant Carpenter, Barb was a woman of warmth, resilience, and unwavering love.

On December 5, 1955, she married Leon Snider, and together they built a joyful life full of laughter, devotion, and together they had eight children: Sherry (Dave) Reeb, Kathy (George) Comben, Kim (Brett) Redman, Connie Fisher, Mark (Ann) Snider, Lisa (Keith) Johnston, Lori (Dave) Woods, and Tracy (Jody) Snider.

After Leon’s passing in 1997, Barb carried on with grace and strength, upheld by the love of her ever-growing family. She began her professional career at Tallberg, followed by 18 years as the cashier at North Central Michigan College. In retirement, she found joy working in the gift shop at Cross in the Woods, where her warm spirit touched countless lives.

In her later years, Barb shared a home on Mullett Lake with her devoted partner, Don Sharpe. She cherished her daily walks around “The Pointe,” always greeting neighbors with a smile and conversation. Barb found joy in the simple pleasures that made life feel rich and full. She loved clothing, jewelry and shopping at her favorite store, McClutchey’s, where she never passed up the chance to treat herself. 

She was happiest when her home was filled with family for weekend visits, and holiday gatherings. These special occasions were always marked by laughter and love. She never turned down an opportunity to travel to Alaska, Montana or Wyoming to visit her out-of-state children and in the winters, she enjoyed traveling to Florida to visit Don’s children. She was always happy whether she was enjoying a sunset, finding the perfect outfit or preparing meals for her family.

On April 28th, Barb was gently called home to be with the Lord, where she was reunited with her parents, Mildred and George; her beloved husband, Leon; and her precious granddaughter, Ashley. Barb leaves behind a legacy of love through her 8 children, 24 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Everyone loved Barb. It was impossible not to. She was sweet, silly, and kind, with a gift for making everyone feel like they belong like they were home. Her family was her greatest joy, and she gave them the lasting gifts of unconditional love, humor, and memories that will live on forever. We will miss her every day. But what a gift it was to be loved by her.

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