Elva Joyce Snyder

Elva Joyce Snyder passed away Thursday morning (Sept 17, 2015) at home surrounded by loved ones. She was born to Ivan and Fern Senteney on June 23, 1933 in Cooks Mills, IL. She married Ralph E. Snyder on April 18, 1952 in Westfield, IL. They shared a wonderful 55 years together centered on faith, family, hard work and laughter. They loved to spend time with family and friends. Ralph died on January 7, 2007. In addition to Ralph, her son, Larry Snyder, her parents, brothers, Bill Senteney, Leslie Senteney and sister, Marge Storm, preceded Joyce in death. Joyce is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Snyder, partner, Melissa Breen and Melissa's son Wilson, of Champaign; son, Steve Snyder and wife, Connie, of Euless, TX; grandson, James Snyder and wife Sandy and three beautiful great granddaughters; Paige, Peyton and Reese, of Danville, IL. Joyce is also survived by her sisters, Doris Shook, Carol (Gary) Browning, all of Mattoon, IL and a brother, Robert Senteney, of Terre Haute, IN. Joyce had a special bond with her sisters. They talked daily and were the best of friends. Nieces, nephews, and extended family adored "Aunt Joyce". She is also survived by her best friend of 61 years, Ann Mettler. Joyce placed faith and family before all else. She had a deep abiding faith in God and truly had a servant's heart. Joyce was kind and accepting of everyone she met. She enjoyed people for who they were and what they brought into her life. She was always there when others were in need. Joyce worked at County Market for 20 years. She took great pride in being a good steward and was never afraid of hard work. Joyce loved Townsend, Tennessee, traveling with family and listening to Patriotic and Old Time Gospel music. Joyce also enjoyed trips to Las Vegas and always had the "golden touch" on the slot machines. Anyone who had the privilege to be in Joyce's home was treated to a smile, a hug and amazing meal. Joyce was a marvelous cook and was always known by family and friends for her generous hospitality, patriotic dcor and many wonderful meals shared around the round oak table. Anyone who was a friend was part of her family. Joyce will be sorely missed but we take comfort in knowing we have a piece of her in our hearts and knowing she is sipping sweet tea in heaven. The family would especially like to thank Carle Hospice and Sunset Funeral Home for the extraordinary care they provided. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to: Family Worship Center of Mattoon, Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, or Shriners Hospital for Children. A memorial service will be held Sunday, September 27 at 1pm at the Family Worship Center 5475 Lerna Road, Mattoon, IL. A celebration of life will also be held at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts in Urbana, IL on Saturday, October 31 at 1pm. Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center Champaign-Urbana was entrusted with arrangements.