Hilda J. Snelling's Obituary
Hilda J. Snelling, 91, was born on June 8th, 1932, to her parents James and Bertha Snelling in Pittsford, VT. She graduated valedictorian of David Prouty High School in 1950, and from there, went to a state teachers' college, and soon learned that teaching was not for her. In 1955, she would enlist in the US Air Force, at a time when it was incredibly uncommon for women to join the military. This would begin an illustrious 14 1/2-year career in active duty, achieving the rank of Captain. In 1977, after achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, she transitioned into what would become a 22-year civil service position. Hilda was stationed around the world, from Germany, England, and even Guam, Korea, and Vietnam. During her time in the service, she would complete her master's degree in meteorology, her specialty. She would utilize this skill to provide meteorological data to the US Military, which aided American and allied forces during Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
Eventually, Hilda would settle in Florida as a snowbird, moving between Clearwater, FL and East Brookfield, MA. During her summers up north, she would spend her time gardening, working at the Brookfield Library, and doing needlepoint.
Hilda would pass away on April 1st, 2024, in New Port Richey, FL. She is predeceased by her brothers, Edward (Janet) Snelling of North Brookfield, MA, and Eric Snelling of Homosassa, FL; her brother-in-law Joseph Frigon of Spencer, MA; her sister-in-law Ruth Stevens of Webster, MA; and nephew Stephan Snelling of Purling, NY.
Hilda is survived by her sister, Marjorie Frigon of Spencer, MA; Niece Cindy Thompson and her husband Bill of Whately, MA; Nephew David Snelling and his wife Lynn of Spencer, MA; Nephew John Snelling and his wife Tracy of Surfside, SC; Foster Nephew Michael Banfill of Whately, MA; Niece Cheryl Kristant and her husband John of West Boylston, MA; Niece Jane Ostiguy and her husband George of Spencer, MA; Nephew Brian Snelling and his wife Michelle of New Port Richey, FL; Niece Kathleen St. Amant and her husband Skip of Norwich, CT; Niece Patricia Bither and her husband William of Millersville, MD; Nephew Eric Snelling II and his wife Pamela of Marlborough, NH; Nephew Jeffrey Snelling of Marlborough, NH; Nephew William Snelling of Hinsdale, NH; Several Grand Nieces & Nephews and Great Grand Nieces & Nephews.
Hilda's services will be held on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, at 11:00 AM at East Brookfield Baptist Church, in East Brookfield, MA.
What’s your fondest memory of Hilda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Hilda?
Share a story where Hilda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Hilda you’ll never forget.
How did Hilda make you smile?