Anne Higgens Snyder

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Anne Higgins Snyder, beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and dear friend. Anne passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, following a courageous four-year battle with a rare lung disease. Due to the damage to her lungs, she was diagnosed with heart failure as well. With the weakening of her heart, she suffered kidney failure that led to her passing at Kadlec Hospital in Richland, Washington.

Anne was remarkably determined despite her illness, living each day with resilience, humor, and grace. Her fierce will to live inspired everyone around her, often telling doctors, "I will outlive you all!" True to her nature, Anne surpassed expectations and continued to fight bravely through every challenge.

Born on June 27, 1962, in Memphis, Tennessee, Anne was the daughter of Ralph and Mary Linda (Farris) MacLachlan.

Anne achieved remarkable accomplishments through hard work and perseverance. While raising three children and working part-time, she commuted daily from Dayton to Pullman to earn her degree with honors from Washington State University in May 1999. Following graduation, Anne began her professional career with the Washington State Auditor's office, eventually serving as Assistant State Auditor. She later became CFO for the Walla Walla Housing Authority and Walla Walla County, respected widely for her integrity, strong work ethic, and dedication.

Anne was also a successful entrepreneur. She owned and operated the Shell Service Center in Dayton, owned rental properties, worked for Kelly Rice's CPA firm, founded Higgins Auditing and Accounting LLC, and co-owned Christy's Realty. Additionally, she briefly served the Columbia County Sheriff's Department and was elected as Columbia County Auditor, a role she reluctantly resigned from due to her health.

Anne is preceded in death by her father, Ralph MacLachlan; her mother, Mary Linda Gaddis; step-parents Relene MacLachlan and Richard Gaddis; her sisters Teresa McDaniels, Donna Hicks, and Francee MacLachlan; her grandparents and several beloved aunts.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Garry Snyder; her children, Alicia (Jay) Anderson, Tim (Brandi) Hollingsworth, and Tyrah (Justin) Gaines; and her adored grandchildren, Addison, Aubree, Riley, Alyssa, TJ, Justin Jr., Kaylee, and Kristin. Anne will be deeply missed by her Aunt Jean, Aunt Marla, Uncle JC, and countless friends and loved ones whose lives she touched.

A memorial gathering honoring Anne's life will be held on April 12, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Tucannon River Room at The Dayton Best Western Hotel. The catered event welcomes friends and family to come as they are and stay as long as they wish. Pastor Tony Sykes will lead a prayer at noon.

Her spirit will remain forever in our hearts. The family is deeply grateful for all the love, support, and expressions of sympathy received during this difficult time. Anne's greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored. In Anne's loving memory, we echo the heartfelt words she shared after every phone call: "Kiss my babies goodnight for me."