It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mel A. Snavely, who departed from this life on July 22, 2025, at the age of 71.
Melody was born on June 29, 1954, to the late Harry and Mildred (Metz) Snavely in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and was a beloved resident of Lebanon, Pennsylvania. She had a passion for the restaurant industry as an entrepreneur and owner of Mel’s Diner. Her warm spirit, delicious food (especially donuts and pot pie), and vibrant personality made countless friends and created wonderful memories for those who dined with her.
Beyond her career, Melody was an active member of the Friendship Fire Company, the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club, and “R” Field and Stream. She had a zest for life that was evident in her love for travel, particularly her cherished trips to Jamaica, where she enjoyed laying by the pool and soaking in the sun.
Melody is survived by her devoted spouse, Keith L. Henderson; her loving daughter, Angel Fanti; her son, Justin Fanti; her cherished grandchild, Sophea Fanti; her brother, Kenyon Snavely; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Gene and Patty.
Melody will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she served.
A public viewing will be held on July 26, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at Christman’s Funeral Home Inc., 226 Cumberland St., Lebanon, followed by a funeral service beginning at 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in her memory to WellSpan Sechler Family Cancer Center, 844 Tuck St., Lebanon, PA 17042, or to Sophea’s college tuition fund, c/o Christianson Meyer, 411 Chestnut St., Lebanon, PA 17042.
