Ronald Lee Snyder

Major Snyder passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of discipline, devotion, and an unbreakable love for the country and family he spent a lifetime defending. Born in Brownton, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Arley Ray Snyder and Mildred Opal Wilson Snyder.

A man of quiet but fierce patriotism, Major Snyder’s journey in uniform began with four years as a radar operator in the U.S. Air Force. He continued his military career in the US Army as a radar operator and attended OCS where he was commissioned as a 2nd LT of Armor. Although he never served in an Armor unit, he was a Cavalry Trooper serving as a Scout Platoon leader and Headquarters Troop Commander in 1st Squadron 1st Cavalry Regiment 1st Armored Division during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam. Major Snyder also commanded Bravo Troop 4/7 Cavalry and Infantry Division on the DMZ in Korea. His dress uniform bore the weight of his courage, adorned with the Silver Star, two Bronze Star medals, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. Throughout his life, he remained a steadfast brother-in-arms through his memberships in the Retired Officers Association, American Legion, VFW, and the Hard Head Veterans.

While the world knew him by his rank, his most cherished role was within the walls of his own home. To his grandchildren, he was simply "Major." It was a title of endearment that captured his essence: a man who led with strength and loved with a protective ferocity. He found great joy in logging hours at the gym to stay fit, meticulously tending to his yard, attending men’s breakfast on Thursday’s and feeding the birds. He did everything with the same precision and care he gave to those he held dear. He was the family’s anchor, their quiet protector, and their greatest hero.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 59 years, Brenda Snyder; his son, LTC(Retired) Jeffrey D. Snyder (Paradee); and his daughter, Margaret S. Miles (John). His legacy of strength lives on in his grandchildren who carry his name and stories: Brenda Miles, Carilee Miles Hannah Young, and Emma Peters. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Hayes (Gary); his brother, David Snyder (Sara); and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brothers, Arden and Richard, and his sisters, Judy and Arlene.

In honor of a life spent in service to others, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Memories and messages of comfort may be shared with the family at www.dunbarfunerals.com