Elizabeth "Liz" Snively

Elizabeth Vera Gertrude Morris Snively, known to friends simply as Liz, and to family as "Aunt Betty", died peacefully on September 8, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on November 24, 1930, Liz was the only child of Eric and Isobel Morris, proud Irish immigrants from Belfast. She grew up in St. Lambert, across the St. Lawrence River from Montreal, where she enjoyed a childhood filled with music, bedtime stories, and the warmth of family gatherings.

In 1965, while visiting Washington, D.C., Liz met Chief Master Sergeant John "Jack" Snively of the United States Air Force. Their whirlwind courtship led to marriage later that year, and Liz built a new life in Arlington, Virginia. Though their marriage was brief, it carried Liz into a new chapter of independence and opportunity in the United States

Liz was an accomplished administrative professional, admired for her competence, dedication, and joy in her work. She spent the longest part of her career with IBM in McLean, Virginia, before retiring in 1994. She continued working part-time until age 70, a testament to her belief that "a job worth doing is worth doing well."

In 2004, Liz discovered Hendersonville, North Carolina, on a visit with friends. Instantly captivated by the mountains, she purchased a home on the spot and relocated soon after. She became a devoted member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville where she edited the monthly newsletter for ten years, proofread the weekly e-news, and served in countless quiet but essential ways. In recognition, she was named both an "Unsung Hero" and, at age 94, a Life Member of the congregation.

Liz was also an active volunteer in her wider community, giving her time to SafeLight, the Blue Ridge Humane Society, her neighborhood HOA, and the Bounty of Bethlehem's Christmas meal program. A lifelong animal lover, she filled her home with owl figurines and paintings, considered otters a personal spiritual guide, and adored her many beloved pets-most recently her dog, Moxie, her constant companion.

Liz is survived by her sweet beloved companion, Moxie; cousin, Peter (Helen) Campbell; godson, Gary Wilson; godchildren, Heather and Ian Booth, all living in Canada; as well as many close friends.

Liz will be remembered for her humor, candor, and lively spirit. She described herself as "a pain in the a**," but to her friends she was a loyal companion, a good listener, and a source of wisdom and laughter. She cherished her parents deeply, admired the resilience they modeled and sought to embody their values of kindness, openness, and generosity.

In later years, Liz often said she hoped to be remembered as "a good friend, a decent person, an animal lover, and a lover of life." To all who knew her, she was exactly that.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville, 2021 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, North Carolina 28739.

In lieu of flowers you may send donations in Liz's name to either of her two preferred organizations, Blue Ridge Humane Society, Hendersonville North Carolina or Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville, North Carolina.