Mel A. Snavely

Mel A. Snavely

Mel Snavely Obituary

Visit the Christman's Funeral Home, Inc. - Lebanon website to view the full obituary.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mel A. Snavely, who departed from this life on July 22, 2025, at the age of 71. She was born on June 29, 1954, to the late Harry and Mildred (Metz) Snavely in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and was a beloved resident of Lebanon, Pennsylvania.Melody had a passion for the restaurant industry as an entrepreneur and owner of Mel's Diner. Her warm spirit, delicious food (especially donuts and pot pie), and vibrant personality made countless friends and created wonderful memories for those who dined with her.Beyond her career, Melody was an active member of the Friendship Fire Company, the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club, and "R" Field and Stream. She had a zest for life that was evident in her love for travel, particularly her cherished trips to Jamaica, where she enjoyed laying by the pool and soaking in the sun.Melody is survived by her devoted spouse, Keith L. Henderson; her loving daughter, Angel Fanti; her son, Justin Fanti; and her cherished grandchild, Sophea Fanti; brother Kenyon Snavely; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by siblings Gene and Patty. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she served.A public viewing will be held on July 26, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Christman's Funeral Home, Inc., 226 Cumberland Street, Lebanon, followed by a funeral service beginning at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in her memory to Wellspan Sechler Family Cancer Center, 844 Tuck Street, Lebanon, PA 17042 or to Sophea's college tuition fund, c/o Christianson Meyer, 411 Chestnut Street, Lebanon, PA 17042.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Christman's Funeral Home, Inc. - Lebanon

226 Cumberland Street, Lebanon, PA 17042

Make a Donation
in Mel Snavely's name

How to support Mel's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Mel Snavely's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more