March 5, 2005 — Jerome (Jerry) Snyder, age 50, longtime resident of St. Thomas, died peacefully Feb. 25, at his family's home in Deerfield Beach, Fla. following a lengthy illness. After several years of increasing infirmity, he was diagnosed in 2003 with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a degenerative neurological disorder, for which there is no known treatment or cure.
A native of Carmel, Ind., Jerry moved to St. Thomas in the late 1970s. He worked first as a waiter at Bartolino's Restaurant, and more recently, was a the manager of Alexander's Café in Frenchtown, where he worked for more than a decade. "He treated the restaurant staff and customers as his family," St. Thomas attorney and friend Arthur Pomerantz, remarked adding, "He especially looked forward to returning visits of repeat island visitors."
A lifelong vegetarian and animal lover, Jerry was a man of simple pleasures. He cared devotedly for his pet dogs and cats, and was saddened that he had to leave them behind when his illness forced his relocation to Florida.
For many years, Jerry also provided a home and emotional support for his developmentally-challenged brother, Larry. In a dramatic reversal of roles, Larry served as Jerry's "arms and legs" during his brother's illness. In reflecting on Jerry's unfailing attention to the family over the years, his mother Katie said, "He's my hero!"
Former neighbor, Roblyn King now of New York, retains fond memories of spending time with Jerry during her childhood. When it came time to name a Godfather for her daughter, Ambyre, three years ago, she noted, despite Jerry's already declining health, "I couldn't imagine anybody better for my child!"
In addition to his mother, brother and Goddaughter, Jerry is survived by another brother Gary, and devoted friends, including: the Russell Payne family. He is the son of the late Jules Snyder.
An Evening of Remembrance for Jerry will be held beginning at 6 p.m.Monday evening, March 14. For details, please call Maria or Liz at 774-5203, Arthur or Barbara 776-7650, or Sharon at 998-6687. A plaque honoring Jerry to be placed on the Frenchtown Mall building adjacent to Bella Blu is being planned. Contributions are being sought to establish a discretionary fund for supplemental needs for Larry Snyder. Please make checks payable to Arthur Pomerantz Trust Account and send to at P.O. Box 1623, St. Thomas, VI 00804. In the alternative, donations may be made to The Humane Society of St. Thomas, 7041 Estate Nadir #26, St. Thomas, VI 00802 for kennels for the care and maintenance of dogs and cats. Kindly note on your contribution that the donation is in honor of Jerry Snyder.
