Thursday, May 27, 2021
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Nancy and I worked together in Salem, Oregon where we were both at the brand new ‘Schirle Elementary School’. I was in awe of Nancy’s abilities with young children. Nancy had natural abilities taking children starting with difficult circumstances and within a year making them readers with the love of learning. Nancy’s sense-of-humor made her a natural team player. Her quick wit and humor made her a popular staff person. Once in the middle of a staff meeting she broke up the serious business when she pranked me. Nancy arranged to have a teacher from another school which neither the staff nor I previously knew show up unexpectedly. The visitor was wearing a tight full length dress and was sporting a large rubber playground ball making her appear nine months pregnant. The stranger started talking very loudly before she got to the meeting location but all could hear her as got louder and louder saying things like: ‘where is he’, THAT S.O.B’ is here!, I KNOW YOU’RE HERE., ‘you CAN’T hide from me TERRY SNYDER (my name). By the time she entered the staff room (remember, no one new her) the visit was actually shouting and carrying a razor, shaving cream, a belt, tie and personal items. I NEVER WANT TO LAY EYES ON YOU AGAIN! Eyes in the room nervously shifted from the visitor to me, back and forth (including our principal’s.) One person in the room, Nancy, by this time was laughing historically. Others began to catch on that this was a joke and it ended with the room filled with gales of laughter. My mouth was open and for once, I was speechless. Nancy and I bonded as great friends. Time and distance prevented Nancy and I from seeing each other often, but I always retained great affection for her. The pictures below were taken in Alameda, Ca. where she and Doug lived shortly after their marriage. David and Melanie I am sorry for your loss. Nancy longed for her own children for many years and was so ecstatic when you were born. Nancy, I love you. Terry W. Snyder, former colleague and friend Phoenix, Az.
