Della Marie Johnston, age 79, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2020 at her home surrounded by her children. Della was born October 21, 1940 to Mary Maxine and Clyde Johnston in North Platte, NE, the first of three children. Della married Ray Snyder in 1963 and from this union five children were born: Calvin, Keven, Corwin, Angela, Audrey. Throughout her life, she was passionate about education, helping kids and families.
Her professional career began with teaching and developing learning activities for preschool & elementary age children in North Platte. In 1985, Della moved to Lincoln and became active with National Federation of the Blind. An organization devoted to helping blind individuals reach their full potential. She served two terms as president of NFBN. She, along with others, strived to ensure equality for all visually impaired residents of NE by working to pass legislation on local levels. As she continued her education, she moved into Social Services in Lincoln. She served on Human Service Planning Council and various other subcommittees. Through her work with consumer organizations, she continued to serve as an advocate for the blind persons across Nebraska.
Della was a member of Golden Key Honor Society. She achieved Dean’s List at Mt. Marty and Mid-Plains Community College. Later returning to college after raising her family, she once again achieved Honor Roll at UNL and graduated in 1990 with double major Bachelor of Arts and Science Degrees. In 1999, she returned to North Platte to be with family. She enjoyed also being part of the St Patrick’s Catholic Church family. Continuing her passion of teaching and involving children, Della often handed out quarters to church kids so they may participate in mass by taking forward the offering. Her love for family, friends and faith gave her much joy.
Della was preceded in death by her son, Keven Snyder; her grandson, Chandler Snyder and her parents. She is survived by her children: Calvin Snyder of North Platte, Corwin Snyder of Hershey, Angela Snyder of North Platte, Audrey (Travis) Thompson of Lincoln. Grandchildren: Amber, Heather, Marcus, Jennifer and Derek and great-grandchildren: Izaiah & Essabella.
The family has requested no flowers, memorials may be sent to 2401 NW 46th St, Lincoln NE 68524 for later designation.
Christian wake service will be at 7:00 P.M., Friday, July 24, 2020, Mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, July 25, 2020, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Rev. Josh Brown as celebrant. Burial will follow at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens. Services will be livestreamed on Adams & Swanson Facebook. Visitation will be noon - 5:00 P.M., Thursday and Friday, July 23 and 24, at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home, which is in charge of assisting the family with arrangements.