Former Mills River Mayor Roger Snyder Funeral

Mills River --  Town of Mills River: We have received calls from members of the community asking about the service for former mayor and councilman Roger Snyder. The service will be on Friday, April 4 at Mills River United Methodist Church.

Roger Dale Snyder, a resident of Mills River, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on March 27, 2025, at the age of 65. Born on May 31, 1959, in Brevard, North Carolina, Roger spent his life dedicated to his family, Mills River community, and career.

Obituary Church St Funeral & Cremation 

Roger was a 1977 graduate of West Henderson High School. He was known for his unwavering commitment to his community and his family. He devoted twenty years of his professional life to Xerox, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. Following his tenure at Xerox, it was his service to the Town of Mills River that will be most fondly remembered. Roger was instrumental in establishing the town and becoming its first mayor for ten years. Throughout his tenure of two decades, he was a guiding presence on the Town Council, helping to shape the community that meant so much to him. He was a lifetime member of Mills River Fire Department. Alongside his responsibilities to the community, Roger engaged in farming and the raising of Holstein calves.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Phyllis Jean Tolley Snyder and James Richard Snyder, as well as his sister, Susan Snyder Sherman.

Roger is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Gayle Kearney Snyder, who stood steadfastly by his side. He leaves behind his cherished daughter, Ashley Ward, and her husband, Nick Ward, of Greenwood, South Carolina; his loving son, Taylor Snyder, and his wife, Anna Snyder, of Mills River, North Carolina. Roger was a proud grandfather to Easton Ward and Theo Snyder, who brought immense joy to his life. His passing is also mourned by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and friends who loved him dearly.

Roger always made sure that if someone was having a stressful day, he would say “Slow and Easy,” reminding them to take a deep breath and not stress the big stuff. His wisdom and warmth will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held at Mills River United Methodist Church on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM with Pastor Thomas Glenn officiating the service. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM to celebrate Roger's life and legacy. His family invites those who knew him to attend and share in the memories of a life well-lived.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roger, please visit our floral store.

Events
Visitation
Friday, April 4, 2025
10:00AM - 12:00PM
Mills River United Methodist Church
137 Old Turnpike Rd
Mills River, NC 28759

Cover Image: WNCTimes