Maxine Evelyn Dye Graham Snyder

Maxine Snyder was born in McCleary, Washington, and resided in Elma her entire life. She attended Elma schools, and graduated from Elma High School in 1930. Maxine married William Ray Graham shortly after graduating. He was the manager of the Graham Theatre in Elma where they lived and worked for 25 years.Maxine is survived by their three children, Maxine Roberta Graham Bailey, Ray Eugene Graham, Robert Merle Graham, 12 grandchildren, 22 great- grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. Subsequently she married Richard Snyder.Maxine participated widely in the service clubs and activities of the community, including: Eagles, a 70 year member, Rebekahs, VFW Auxiliary 8 & 40, Birthday Club and Grandmother's Club. She had founded a bridge club that gathered once a week for 60 years. The American Cancer Society and The American Heart Association awarded Maxine with bronze metals for her service in fund raising.Maxine was employed over the years by the US Postal Service, managed the Elma Clinic for 20 years, and retired from the Department of Labor and Industries as a Medical Adjudicator.In retirement she volunteered at the Elma Elementary School to help beginning readers. She also enjoyed visiting retirement homes where she entertained with her lively piano playing. Maxine was an avid gardener, played piano, loved children, life, and the people of the Elma/McCleary area. She had resided at the Beehive retirement home in McCleary for the last three years. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to noon. The funeral will follow, at 1:00 pm Tuesday, July 14, 2009, at Whiteside Family Mortuary in Elma, with graveside service at the Masonic Cemetery in Elma. A reception will follow at the Elma Eagles.