Rita Snyder

1947 - 2026

Rita Jean Snyder, 78, of Stafford, Va., passed away at home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who will be dearly missed by everyone whose lives she touched.

She leaves behind her three children, Stephanie Snyder (Michael Ikeya), Christina Gilsbach (Michael) and Andrew Snyder (Jocelyn); grandchildren, Alexander and Benjamin Gilsbach; Grant, Luke, Max, and Joy Snyder; siblings, Jane Balzuweit, and Susan Balzuweit.

She is preceded in death by her devoted husband of 25 years, John Robert Snyder; parents, Mary Jane and Heinz Balzuweit of Vandalia, Ohio.

Rita lived a life full of enthusiasm and creative endeavors. Among her several careers, her ultimate and most cherished position was with the University of Mary Washington Philharmonic Orchestra, where she hosted many celebrity performers and helped bring a wide range of music to the Fredericksburg community.

A large part of Rita's charm was her fantastic ability to tell a story and her inclination towards teaching others about the things she loved. She was an exceptional seamstress, and mastered many textile arts, routinely teaching classes in both sewing and tatting (lace making) . Skilled in the kitchen, Rita was an expert all-around cook who especially loved the sweet things in life, such as baking and candy-making. An accomplished pianist, she took great pleasure from watching her grandchildren carry on the tradition at their own recitals.

The family would like to personally thank Rita's many angels that helped to care for her during her final years. Nurses, care givers, and several remarkable friends made her desire to maintain her independence at home possible.

We hope you remember Rita the next time you hear a moving piece of classical music, admire a handcrafted item, or enjoy a homemade brownie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Save the Music Foundation.

Per the family's wishes, there will be no service at this time.