Obituary of Richard M. Snavely

Richard "Dick" Mellinger Snavely, 86 of Avoca, NY walked into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday evening, June 11, 2017 at the Vincent Home in Wayland, NY. Dick was born on June 4, 1931 to Abram and Anna Snavely in Strasburg, PA. On June 21, 1952, he married Jacqueline "Jackie" DeVere, who survives him, and they were blessed with four loving children: Carol Book (Roger) of Jasper, GA, Rick Snavely (Sherri) of Avoca, NY, Randy Snavely (Kristina) of Bath, NY, and Ron Snavely (Pam) of Painted Post, NY. Dick and Jackie have 11 grandchildren; Ben Canaday (Emily), Jennifer Canaday, Chad Snavely (Kasey), Rachelle Miller (Justin), Adam Snavely (McKenzie), Drew Snavely, Luke Snavely, Olivia Snavely, Taylor Young (Clayton), Meredith Snavely, Nate Snavely and one great granddaughter, Mila. Dick was the founder of Family Life Ministries, Inc. Dick and Jackie moved from Lancaster County, PA in 1957 to begin a youth ministry called Area Youth for Christ. The organization grew and began its first radio station in 1983. Over the next 30 years the radio outreach grew to nearly 70 outlets throughout NY and PA. In 1986, the organization changed its name to Family Life Ministries (Family Life). To commemorate the ministry's 50th anniversary in 2007, Dick wrote an autobiography "An Ordinary Guy…With The Extraordinary God" detailing the history of Family Life. Dick was also the driving force behind the creation of New Life Homes-Snell Farm in the early 70s, a home that provided hope and direction to delinquent youths. The Snavely family wish to express its sincere appreciation to Care First in Corning, NY and The Vincent Home in Wayland, NY for their help, care, and love. An informal time of gathering for calling hours will be held from 4:00-7:00 PM on Friday, June 16 at the Family Life Center at 7634 Campbell Creek Road in Bath, NY. A memorial service honoring the God that Dick served will take place at the same location on Saturday, June 17 at 11:00 AM. Dick will be laid to rest at the Valley View Cemetery in Avoca, NY. In lieu of flowers, gifts given in memory of Dick Snavely can be made to Family Life Ministries' Building Fund; PO Box 506; Bath, NY 14180.