Jeffrey Snyder, born on March 19, 1950, in Auburn, Indiana, passed away, leaving a legacy of service and compassion. He was the fourth child of Glenn and Beatrice Snyder. Jeffrey graduated from Eastside High School in 1968 and continued his education at Indiana University, Fort Wayne, earning his degree in 1972. He furthered his theological studies at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, graduating in 1975.

Jeffrey began his ministry at Washington Center United Methodist Church in South Whitley, Indiana, before moving to California in the mid-1980s. He served at the United Methodist Church in Exeter and Sacramento before settling in Fresno, where he led Wesley United Methodist Church. Transitioning from his pastoral duties, Jeffrey became the Executive Director of United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Central California, a role he held until 1999.

His career continued in San Francisco as the head of operations for the Sisters of Mercy in Burlingame. In 2005, Jeffrey moved to Palm Desert, California, to become the Executive Director at UCP Inland Empire. He then moved back to San Francisco to serve as the Executive Director for the Janet Pomeroy Center. In 2010, he returned to Fresno to resume his leadership role at UCP Central California, where he continued until his retirement in 2016.

In retirement, Jeffrey found joy in traveling with his beloved husband, Wayne Tanaka. Together, they visited every continent except two, fulfilling a lifelong dream of seeing the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

Jeffrey is survived by his husband, Wayne Tanaka; his children, Inge, Kait, and Charlie, their spouses, and eight grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Jill Cessford of Clovis, CA, his brother, David Snyder, and his wife of Butler, Indiana. He also leaves behind his cherished dogs, Savvi and Zoey. Jeffrey was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Judy White Newland.

Special thanks go to Quintin and Charles Hoskins for providing his care for four months in their home.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the United Cerebral Palsy Campus, 2044 E Nees Ave., Fresno, California.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Jeffrey Snyder to Mrs. Winkles Pet Adoption Center.