In Loving Memory of Donna Louise Snyder (née Wallace)

October 10, 1965 – March 28, 2025

With profound sadness and eternal love, we share the passing of Donna Louise Snyder, who left this world on March 28, 2025. Born on October 10, 1965, in Toronto, Canada, Donna’s life was nothing short of extraordinary—a journey of resilience, laughter, complexity, and a love that radiated through her relationships, music, and fierce independence.

She was the daughter of Ellen Mertens (née McCaffery) and the late Peter James Wallace, and a treasured sister to Debbie Wallace, Denise Wallace, and Peter Wallace. But perhaps her greatest title, and her most sacred calling, was that of Mom and Nana.

At the age of 15, Donna chose the path of motherhood, giving birth to her son, Brent James Snyder. From that day forward, her life was rooted in fierce love and relentless determination to give him the best she could offer. In later years, her family expanded to include Brent’s wife, Michelle Lauzon-Snyder, whom she loved deeply, and their son Jamison, the light of her life.

The birth of Jamison in April 2006 marked a turning point in Donna’s world. She called him her “Sunshine on her shoulder,” a nickname that captured the joy, pride, and renewed sense of purpose she felt as his grandmother. From the moment she held him, Donna’s love for Jamison was unmatched—pure, unconditional, and deeply spiritual. Watching him grow brought her endless delight, and she often spoke of how proud she was of the young man he was becoming.

She loved watching him play sports, marveled at his sincerity, and saw in him the very best of both his parents. Her eyes would light up when he walked into the room, and her voice amplified when she spoke about him. Whether it was cheering him on from the sidelines, sending him a thoughtful gift, or simply calling to hear his voice, every moment with Jamison was a treasure. He wasn’t just her grandson—he was her joy, her hope, and her legacy in motion.

Donna’s life was filled with moments that were often brief but always full—full of presence, passion, and power. She’d come, see, conquer, and leave—never one to stay too long, but always long enough to be remembered. Her quick wit, infectious laughter, and uncanny ability to quote song lyrics in just the right moment were trademarks of her vibrant personality.

She had a gift for finding treasures—at thrift stores, in music, and in people. She never needed much to make others feel special. Whether it was a spontaneous gift, a meaningful conversation, or a song lyric sent at just the right time, Donna had a way of reminding people that they mattered.

Her wisdom came in unique forms. As a child, Brent remembers her saying, “People are just different. And that’s a beautiful thing.” She taught him to embrace the full spectrum of life, in all its colors, shapes, and sounds.

In one of their last conversations, Brent was able to share with her that he would be inducted into his high school’s Hall of Fame—a full-circle moment for the young student-athlete she raised. Not for the accolades, but for the opportunity to be a voice of perseverance, to share their story, and to inspire others to rise and take risks. “Mom, I promise to continue telling our story—and I’ll do it with purpose.”

Donna’s story wasn’t perfect—but it was real, and deeply human. A beautiful and complex soul, she leaned on her love of music, deep friendships, and her unshakable bond with family to navigate life’s many peaks and valleys.

“And as we wind on down the road, our shadows taller than our soul…”

— Led Zeppelin, “Stairway to Heaven”

Donna is survived by her mother, Ellen, her son Brent (Michelle), her grandson Jamison, her siblings, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who were lucky to know her. Her essence lives on in the stories we tell, the music we play, and the ways we show up for each other.

May we honor Donna’s life not just by remembering her—but by living as she did: fully, passionately, and without apology. And may Jamison always carry her light forward, knowing how deeply and wildly he was loved by his Nana.

Her soul now joins the eternal rhythm of the universe—but her melody will play on in every heart she touched.

At this time, we won’t be holding a formal celebration of life. While the loss is still fresh, we want to honor her in a way that truly reflects her spirit. When the time feels right, we’ll organize something special to celebrate her memory—and we look forward to sharing that moment with those who knew and loved her.

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