Mary Ellen (Snyder) Herd, a lifelong Needham resident died suddenly at her home on Thursday January 18, 2007. She was 54 years old. Mary Ellen was a graduate of Needham High School Class of 1970. She received an Undergraduate degree from Mt Ida and a Masters in Administration from Boston College. Active in community affairs and local politics, Mary Ellen was a longtime Town Meeting Member and the former chair of both the Needham School Committee and the Needham Democratic Town Committee. Most recently, she was the chair of the Needham Community Preservation Committee. Mrs. Herd worked as an Administrator for the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. The loving mother of Billy Herd and his wife Sarah of South Boston and Kristina Barisano and her husband Doug of Millis, she was the dear daughter of Mary (Logue) Snyder of Falmouth and the late Robert F. Snyder. Sister of Richard L. Snyder of Murrells Inlet, SC, John N. of Foxboro, Joseph G of Charlottesville, VA, James F. of Dover and the late Robert F. Snyder Jr. Cherished grandmother of Dominic J. Barisano. Former wife of William R. Herd Jr. of Dover. Mary Ellen is also survived by her dear friend Dan Matthews, her many nieces, nephews, cousins and her dog Frankie. Funeral services at the Christ Episcopal Church 1132 Highland Ave Needham on Tuesday January 23rd at 10:00 AM. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Visiting hours at the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham on Monday 4-8 PM. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Miniature Schnauzer Rescue Service of New England, Attention Wanda, 190 Thompson Rd. Webster, MA 01570 or the charity of your choice.