Susan Hull Snyder, 80, of Shelby, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2025 at TerraBella of Shelby.

Born in Cleveland County on April 12, 1945, she was the beloved daughter of the late James Heyward Hull Jr. and Evelyn Elam Hull of Shelby. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Joseph Snyder.

She is survived by her brother, James Heyward Hull, III, and his wife, Jean Morgan Hull; and by their three daughters: Carlyn Hull Cunningham of Raleigh, NC; Lori Hull Reade of Durham, NC; and Susan Hull Seyss of Apex, NC. Susan and her brother shared a special bond throughout their lives, maintaining a close and loving relationship. Although Heyward lived in Chapel Hill during most of her adult life, he and Jean often traveled to Shelby to visit Susan and Louis, which typically necessitated a trip for BBQ at Alston Bridges! Heyward and Susan spent many hours on the phone discussing their lives and activities. True to the Hull family sense of humor, those conversations were always full of laughter and stories, more aptly called "Bear Tales," a hallmark of their special connection.

Susan fell in love with horses as a young child. Later, as a tall blonde with bright blue eyes, Susan was viewed both as a striking, and gifted equestrian. Her skill with horses led to her being asked to train show horses. Susan also spent many joyful years riding alongside dear friends Jann Ford and Rhinda Cook.

In her youth, Susan faced years of debilitating eczema and asthma. During her senior year at Shelby High School, she endured a 17-day hospitalization yet, with characteristic determination, she returned to graduate with her class of 1963.

Susan's health limitation derailed a planned career in nursing. Instead, she turned to a career in business, in particular, learning the clothing business. Subsequently, for more than twenty years, Susan owned and operated The Boudoir on the square in uptown Shelby, where she brought style and grace to the community. She also staged hundreds of fashion shows, from Isothermal College to Raleigh, and contributed her creative talents to countless churches and civic groups. After closing her retail business, Susan enjoyed a second career as a realtor and broker. She was collectively employed by Allen Tate, Caldwell Banker, and Century 21 companies for the next two decades, and continued to serve her community with dedication and warmth until her retirement. A woman of many gifts, she also shared her love of music by singing and playing guitar in churches and at local gatherings.

Susan has been an active member at First Baptist Church in Shelby. She also has been a cherished member of the Joy Sunday School Class. She was known for her gracious hospitality around the Christmas holiday, inviting friends to join her in singing Christmas carols to friends who were homebound.

The family extends a special heartfelt thanks to her dearest friends -- Mitzi Price, Jann Ford, Fern Potts, Ronald Wright, and other special friends, who remained steadfastly by her side and supported her through her illnesses following the passing of her husband, Louis.

The family also acknowledges the wonderful guidance and loving support provided by her pastor, Reverend Asher Panton and her beloved Sunday School teacher and friend Sophia Steibel.

A funeral service for Susan will begin at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Asher Panton officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Sunset Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Shelby, NC. Online condolences may be shared at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.