St. Louis, Mo. — Communities in both St. Louis and Athens, Georgia, are mourning the loss of Ryan Victor Snyder, a 19-year-old business student at the University of Georgia, who died on December 5, 2025.
His death followed a self-inflicted gunshot wound sustained the previous day at a local gun range in Athens. Snyder’s passing has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the university community, who remember him as a promising young man with warmth, humor, and kindness.
Born on December 6, 2006, Snyder grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He was the son of Sharon Rosenberg and Alan Snyder and the brother of Jared Snyder. His extended family included grandparents Donna and Alan Rosenberg, Harriet Snyder, and the late Michael Snyder and Teresa Whitesell-Snyder.
Family members recall his dry sense of humor and the joy he brought to gatherings, whether through board games, fantasy football leagues, or simple shared moments. His close-knit family describes him as someone who valued connection and laughter, qualities that defined his relationships.
At the University of Georgia, Snyder had just begun his studies in business. Professors and classmates noted his curiosity and intellectual sharpness, which allowed him to engage meaningfully in discussions and connect easily with peers. His presence on campus was described as kind and approachable, traits that made him stand out in the early stages of his academic career. Friends from his high school years and Six Points Sports Camp in North Carolina also remembered him for his authenticity and ability to form genuine bonds.
Snyder’s high school years were marked by athletic achievement. He participated in basketball, volleyball, and wrestling, demonstrating both competitive spirit and dedication to teamwork. His involvement in the National Honor Society reflected his commitment to academic excellence alongside athletics. Outside of school, Snyder enjoyed movies, poker, sports, and spending time outdoors, interests that highlighted his balance between discipline and leisure.
A memorial service honoring Snyder’s life was held on December 14, 2025, at Congregation Shaare Emeth in St. Louis. The service included options for livestream attendance, allowing friends and supporters from outside the city to participate. A private family burial preceded the public remembrance. In lieu of flowers, contributions were suggested to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), underscoring the family’s desire to support mental health awareness in the wake of his passing.
