John Howard Snyder, age 82, of 2003 Rose Ave., died at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center, Monday, July 4, 2011. A native of Sparta, IL, he was born January 2, 1929 the son of George Julius and Minnie Snyder. Mr. Snyder served on the board and was chairman of volunteers of The Vines Botanical Garden; was awarded Citizen of the Year by Gwinnett County; started in insurance as an adjuster and went on to become President and run an insurance salvage and appraisal company. He also authored a reference book that is now used by other insurance companies and was considered an expert in the insurance business where he taught many seminars. He served on many County and Civil boards in Gwinnett County; was very artistic and enjoyed painting and wood carving. Mr. Snyder was a member of First Baptist Church of Americus. A memorial service will be held Thursday, July 7, 2011, at 11:00 AM in the chapel of First Baptist Church with Rev. Keith Parks officiating. The family will receive friends at the family residence. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to First Baptist Church, 221 S. Lee St., Americus, Ga. 31709. Survivors include his wife, Pauline Snyder of Americus; five daughters, Deborah Snyder of Ashville, NC, Pam Nogueira of Raleigh, NC, Cheryl Snyder of Ringgold, Sandy Snyder of Dunwoody and Felicia Alexander of Americus; three sons, Jeff Jennings of Chandler, Clay Jennings of Valdosta and Robert Jennings, Jr. of Leesburg; a sister, Marge Doelger of Texas and ten grandchildren. You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts and memories by visiting www.greghancockfuneralchapel.com . Greg Hancock Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Memorials: First Baptist Church, 221 S. Lee St., Americus, Ga. 31709. Visitation: The family will receive friends at the family residence, 2003 Rose Ave. Service: Thursday, July 7, 2011, at 11:00 AM in the chapel of First Baptist Church