Dorothea Anna Lebo Wilson Snyder

Dorothea Anna Lebo Wilson Snyder, lovingly known as “Dorotheanna” passed away peacefully at her home in Arden, North Carolina, on Saturday, July 25, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was 99 years old.

Dorothea was born on May 23, 1927, in Lykens, Pennsylvania, to Leon R. Lebo and Katrina Julianna Wentzler Lebo. Throughout her long and remarkable life, she touched countless lives through her dedication to family, her work as a nurse, and the example she set in strength and compassion, and her commitment to The Lord.

After graduating from Harrisburg Hospital School of Nursing, Dorothea moved to Buncombe County to begin her training at the VA Hospital Tuberculosis Ward following World War II. It was there she met her first husband, John Wilson, Jr. The two were wed and together made their home in Western North Carolina at 16 Shannon Drive in Oakley, where Dorothea would reside for the next 75 years. Following the passing of John after 13 years of marriage, Dorothea eventually met William Ray Snyder. They married in 1971 and enjoyed 40 years of devoted partnership, further enriching the fabric of her life.

Dorothea’s career in healthcare was marked by deep dedication. After her time at the VA, she joined St. Joseph Hospital, serving as head of the New Born Nursery for many years until its closing and consolidation into Mission Hospital. She later worked at the Children’s Medical Center, remaining a tireless advocate for her young patients and their families until her retirement in 2011 at the age of 84. Over the course of her career, she became a beloved colleague, affectionately known as “Dee” by those with whom she worked.

Above all else, Dorothea was a strong and loving mother. She is survived by her children: John Steven Wilson, Lynn Wilson Reed, Brian David Wilson and wife Yeva, and Ann-Luise Rauser and husband William; her grandchildren: Stevin Wilson and Crystal, Rachel Smith and Billy, Andrea Matthews and Dave, and Gabriel Read; her great-grandchildren: Makayla Smith, Garrett Matthews, and Graham Matthews; as well as her nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends. The warmth and generosity she showed to her family form an enduring legacy, cherished by all who knew her.

Dorothea is preceded in death by her her husbands, John Wilson, Jr. and William Ray Snyder; son-in-law, Bill Reed; her parents, Leon R. Lebo and Katrina Julianna Wentzler Lebo; her sisters, Katherine Gittings and husband Budd Gittings, and Norma Zimmerman; and her infant brother, Jack Lebo.

A graveside service to honor and remember Dorothea’s extraordinary life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Gashes Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, 308 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, NC.

Her family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation for the staff of Four Seasons Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion shown to Dorotheanna and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Four Seasons Hospice Foundation, 211 N Main Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792 or online at fourseasonsfdn.org

Dorothea’s life was defined by enduring love, meaningful service, steadfast resilience, and her love for The Lord. Her family, friends, and community are forever grateful for her presence, which will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Dortheanna's family.