Flesh-Eating Bacteria Kills Nor Cal Pastor

A Sacramento pastor has died after a six-month battle with so-called "flesh-eating bacteria."

According to her family, Rev. Linda Snyder died Tuesday in Sacramento's Mercy Hospital from complications caused by necrotizing fasciitis (NECK-ro-TIE-zing FA-sigh-tus). The Sacramento Bee reports that she was 62.

The rare disease is caused when a deadly bacteria germ spreads a tissue-killing toxin after invading the body, typically through a minor cut. The Bee reports the affliction developed in an abscess on her back and led to a coma, pneumonia and other complications.

Snyder had been pastor of Florin United Methodist Church for about 10 years until 2011. She briefly served as pastor of Citrus Heights United Methodist Church, but stepped down in January when she entered the hospital.

A memorial service is scheduled for June 30 at Japanese Methodist Church.