Riley Snyder

 

Riley Snyder 28, of St. Joseph passed on Wednesday April 3, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Riley devoted his life to teaching at risk youth as the K-12 Art teacher with the Decatur School system. with compassion and fervor. Born in Elgin, Il he is leaving behind a close-knit family; father, Michael Snyder, mother Jeanne Lord, sister Anna Snyder, and grandma, Sandra Waller. He loved his two pets Mabel and Levi, and a host of extended family members and friends. His family finds solace in the knowledge that he lived life and loved others to the fullest despite his untimely death.

 Riley was a gentle soul who loved art, poetry, fishing, dogs, sitting on the front porch, hanging out in the garage, butter cookies and taco bell. He loved going to church and practicing his catholic faith. He treasured his runs and long walks outside with his sister, Anna, while blasting songs from Sister Act. The family recalls his random acts of kindness, bringing his mom flowers, and annual tradition of wearing "ugly sweaters" every day during Christmas time for his students.

 He valued quality time with family. He was known by all for having the biggest heart always willing to give. His generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need helped aid his family's decision to continue his legacy of helping those in need in death as he did in life. And while they each are grieving the huge void of his physical presence; they are all tremendously blessed with invaluable memories of their time spent with their beloved Riley.

 A Memorial Mass will be held at 1:30 P.M. Friday May 10, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church 708 W. Main St. Urbana, IL. Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph is assisting the family with arrangements. 

 Memorials may be made to a fund being established for the Decatur Alternative school education program in Riley's memory.

Freese FH 4/10/2024