Posted on May 7 at 12:13 p.m.

To the family of Jacob Snyder. My name is Eugene Pidgeon and for about 20 years I lived in Santa Barbara. I was so moved by the story of your son Jacob, I was compelled to respond.

I too, found my way into Santa Barbara...as a last refuge after my father died in Memphis, Tennessee. My circumstance...in many ways was similar to Jacob's. As a writer for the SB Independent...I found my voice....and my heart through the lifelines offered to me...by the likes of Marianne Partridge, Russ Spencer, Joe Woodard, Nick Welsh, Kief Hilsbery, Tybie Kirkman (sp?), Claire Rabe, Martha Sadler, Glenda Shaw and most especially my friend John Raymond.

In the community at large, when I was at my worst and lost, I reached for the lifelines offered...from the likes of Peter and Darlene Novak, Renee Lovato...and countless others who took the time...to take me up...when I was so burdensome.

Now, I live in Memphis, Tennessee, where I work with the homeless. In Santa Barbara, I learned to share the lifelines and the courage and generosity of others which I swear kept me alive.

I wish I had known your son Jacob. Perhaps, I could have extended to him all that was extended to me...by so many in what I called the town of last resort. I can see by his work, how your son Jacob was indeed a gifted artist. But as his mother you love him as your son. What greater gift is there?

You and your whole family are in my prayers. I hope my prayers are worthy.

Eugene Pidgeon

On Jacob Snyder 1980-2008