Suzanne Snyder Jacobson

VIRGINIA BEACH – Suzanne Snyder Jacobson, 89, passed away peacefully at home on June 1, 2025.

Suzanne was predeceased by her devoted husband of 64 years, Jack Burt Jacobson, of blessed memory. Suzanne is survived by her four daughters, Maryann Jacobson (Angela), Carol Diamonstein (Jamie), Janie Craig (Jim), Betty Martin (Jesse) and two granddaughters, Claire Weinberg (Michael) and Alyson Diamonstein, each of whom brought her immense pride and joy.

Suzanne was born December 16,1935 in Norfolk, Va., to the late Elizabeth and Milton Snyder, of blessed memory. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Portsmouth, Va. in 1953, and Marjorie Webster Junior College in Washington, D.C. in 1955. Suzanne later earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Virginia Wesleyan College in 1977, a testament to her lifelong love of learning and personal growth.

Suzanne had a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit. Alongside her sister, Barbara Lyle, she purchased The Ragged Robin, transforming it from a modest lending library into a beloved gift shop specializing in Godiva chocolates, Crane stationery, and Herend china. Her passion for Crane stationery and social traditions later inspired her to open Suzanne Jacobson’s Gallery of Fine Papers where she was a trusted expert in wedding invitations and social correspondence.

Never one to stop evolving, Suzanne took up photography with a special focus on capturing the vitality of the active elderly. Her keen eye and compassionate presence culminated in the publication of her book, Too Busy to Count the Years, which celebrated the wisdom and beauty of aging with purpose.

Suzanne was the beautiful and glamorous matriarch of the family. She embraced her Jewish faith with joy and reverence, welcoming her family and friends for the Sabbath and all religious holidays. Her oceanfront home was a haven of warmth filled with friends, family, and celebrations.

Always humble and generous, Suzanne was constantly thinking of ways to support those less fortunate. She found deep fulfillment in caring for others, a devotion that was especially evident in the tender way she cared for her husband in his final years. But it was her children and her two granddaughters who held the largest place in her heart. She gave to them tirelessly, living by the principle of L’dor Vador, from generation to generation.

The family extends profound gratitude to Cynthia Payne, whose unwavering devotion over 45 years was a true blessing in Suzanne’s life. A special thanks is also owed to Suzanne’s beloved sister, Barbara Lyle, who lived alongside her, offering love, protection, and companionship until the end.

Suzanne Jacobson was laid to rest in a private burial. Memorial contributions may be made to the Suzanne and Jack Jacobson Family Fund at the Tidewater Jewish Federation.