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BORN
1950
DIED
2024
Jeffrey Snyder Obituary
March 19, 1950 - July 30, 2024
Fresno, California - 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 Butler 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 1974.
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 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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Snyder
Joanna Spence
July 29, 2025
Your kind welcoming way when you spoke to us as a group or during your sermons for whatever reason reached my sole and after being a Methodist for 40 years I joined the church because of you. Also forever grateful for the loving kind friend you were to my mom.
Wes & AnnieLaurie Nagata
July 29, 2025
We think of Jeff everyday. His kindness, his humor and love for his husband Wayne and his family.
Love and comfort to Wayne as he goes through this week.
We love you cousin. W&A
Edward Signorello
July 29, 2025
Jeff you will always be remembered in our hearts and minds
God bless
Nora Gleason
December 25, 2024
I was deeply saddened to hear of Jeff's passing. He was a wonderful boss and a lovely man with a deep sense of empathy and a fabulous sense of humor. I will always carry Jeff's spirit with me and am grateful to have known him. Sending love and my deepest condolences to Wayne and Jeff's whole family.
Scot Sumner
August 12, 2024
Jeff and Wayne were neighbors of ours in San Francisco and we became close friends. We traveled together and enjoyed many wonderful times together. When marriage became legal for us in California, Jeff performed our marriage, and Wayne was the witness. We are heartbroken by this sad loss and our hearts go out to Wyne at this sad time. Our lives are forever blessed for knowing Jeff!
Araceli Avina and Family
August 11, 2024
Jeff was a blessing to so many of us; we will miss him dearly but will cherish his memory and hold him close to our hearts.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Mary Poppingo
August 10, 2024
Jeff was a gifted leader, manager and the best boss I have ever known. I learned so much from him and appreciated all he shared with me. I will miss him so very much. Mary
Brian Kim
August 9, 2024
Jeff was the best boss I’ve ever had. More than just a leader, he was a mentor and an inspiration. His guidance, support, and kindness left a lasting impact on my life. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Brian and Jeannie Kim
Joanna Mills Spence
August 8, 2024
I remember when you came to be the Pastor at Fresno Wesley United Methodist Church. You and your young family. You had such a wonderful kind inviting way about you. I grew up in the UMC and not until you came when I was in my early 40's did I ever feel the desire to join the Church. Your loving kind inviting way reached me and made me want to join the Church. Also, I love that you and my Mom Nadeen Mills remained friends far after you left being the Pastor of our Church. Thank you.
Edward & Kathleen Signorello
August 4, 2024
Jeff was a very kind and compassionate neighbor and will be truly missed. Our prayers and blessings will be with him.
Kathy & Ed Signorello
Wes and Annie Nagata
August 3, 2024
Jeff was a beautiful soul. Kind, compassionate and understanding. It was a pleasure and privilege to have known him. He was a true example of what Christian love really is. We send our deepest loving condolences to our cousin Wayne for his loss.
Love Wes and Annie
David Narz
August 2, 2024
Jeffrey,
You were there at UCPIE when we met and when after my fathers passing you asked that I get involved on the board, beyond my families participation in the golf tournament due to their relationship with Dennis James and his family.
Now that my dad and uncle are in their eternity, I speak for my family and myself.
Enjoy now your good fruits and be blessed in your eternity with our God.
Miss you, but know we´ll meet again as our mutual faith will see to it.
David Narz & the Narz Kennedy family.
Anita Porco
August 2, 2024
Jeff has been in my life for over 20 years and I could not have had a more loving friend. We met through UCP and shared many joys and sorrows but Jeff never changed. He was always the same loving , optimistic guy who always had a huge smile on his face and the most prophetic words came from his lips. Love you Jeff and rest in peace. Anita
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