Mary Snavely

Mary Belle Bixler Snavely, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and lifelong caregiver, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, at the age of 79. She was born on December 5, 1944, to the late Dr. Lester Bixler Sr. and Mrs. Caroline Bixler. Mary was preceded in death by her brother, Dr. Lester “Bud” Bixler Jr., and her sister, Jane Bixler. Mary is survived by her husband and best friend of 58 years, Frank Geary Snavely Jr., with whom she shared a deep and enduring bond since they began dating in eighth grade. They were married in 1966, and Frank lovingly cared for her during the final years of her life. Mary is also survived by her sister, Sally Elizabeth Williamson; her son, Ty Michael Snavely (Karen); her daughter, Sally J. Snavely Newell (Thomas); and her cherished grandchildren: Taylor Snavely Handley (Ryan), Chase Snavely, Emily Newell, Claudia Newell, and Jessica Newell. Additionally, she is survived by several nieces and nephews, all of whom were blessed by her warmth, kindness, and wisdom. A 1962 graduate of Middletown Area High School, Mary was a cheerleader, a class officer, and a beloved member of her school community. She went on to earn her degree in nursing from Harrisburg Hospital in 1965, beginning a lifelong career dedicated to helping others. Over the years, Mary worked in various roles: first at Harrisburg Hospital, then at Allegheny Valley School for 15 years, followed by five years in the hospital’s operating room. She later served as a school nurse at Middletown Area High School for a decade, always with compassion and professionalism. Mary’s life was marked by her deep love for her family. She was a devoted mother who took immense joy in her children's lives, attending their sports games and cherishing time spent with them. As a grandmother, she relished every moment with her grandchildren, showering them with love and pride. Mary was a member of the Greater Harrisburg Sweet Adelines. She had a passion for decorating for the holidays, enjoyed summers spent by the pool, and looked forward to her annual trips to Avalon, where she found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Mary’s legacy of care, love, and commitment to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a woman of grace, strength, and humility, whose life was a testament to the importance of family, service, and kindness. Rest in peace, Mary. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 11 AM at the Middletown Home Chapel, 999 W. Harrisburg Pk., Middletown, PA 17057. A time of visitation will be held from 10 AM until the start of the service. Burial will be private at the Middletown Cemetery, Middletown.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org