Born Into Life: 1921 Entered into Eternity: 2021
Mercedes Leah Snyder was born on December 31, 1921 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She was the fourth child of twelve born to the union of Charles Henry Baker and Ruby A. Baker. Mercedes attended Ann Arbor Public Schools, graduating from Ann Arbor High School. She was united in marriage to Charles Snyder on January 10, 1942, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. To this union 4 daughters were born. For many years Mercedes lived in Albion, Michigan. In her later years she and her husband moved to Wild Goose Lake. This is where she resided until her untimely death.
Mercedes had a loving warm spirit about her. She is described by her daughters as being strong, generous, considerate, warm, stubborn, and compassionate. When meeting her you were oftentimes met with a big warm smile. She was known for the love of the color Purple. This regal color was reflective of her personality. She loved her family, but she had a special affection and bond for her granddaughters Donna and Arianne. Her great grandson Kaleb also held a special place in her heart.
She was a vibrant person who had various interests and many hobbies. She loved to cook, sew, read, do puzzles and crochet. Her love of crocheting resulted in some beautiful Afghans which she graciously gave to family and friends. She also enjoyed bowling and for many years was a member of bowling leagues in Albion. She also was a member of the El Enones Social Club.
Although many thought of her as a homemaker this was far from the truth. She was an entrepreneur along with her husband, together they owned and operated a catering service and for many years managed the cafeteria at the Malleable Iron Company in Albion. Their catering service oftentimes was employed by the affluent of Albion. She also managed Tate’s Store for many years in Albion.
She was a member of Lewis Chapel AME Church in Albion, Michigan.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Charles Snyder; her brothers, Sherman, Carl, Marvin, James, Leroy, and Charles Baker; her sisters, Winona Baker, Shirley Baker, and Elizabeth Hill; son-in-law, Thomas Bell, and granddaughter, Margo Williams.
Those left to cherish her memories are her children: Ruby (Donald) Burch of Ann Arbor, Michigan; Ethel (Harold) Simons of Ann Arbor, Michigan; Roberta Bell of Las Vegas, Nevada; Rebecca (Larry) Williams of Albion, Michigan; 18 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren; brother, Claude Baker of Ann Arbor; sister, Margaret Haywood of Ann Arbor; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family will respect the wishes of Mercedes Snyder. Cremation will take place and a private burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Albion, Michigan.
You may share a memory or leave a message for Mercedes' family by using the form below. Please allow up to 24 hours for us to review and post your message.