Obituaries
Terry Guyer Shuman, 78
March 13, 1946 - August 19, 2024
Terry Guyer Shuman died on August 19, 2024, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania following a brief illness. He was 78. Born to Lester Shuman and Lila Hunter on March 13, 1946, in Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, Terry earned a BA in Social Studies from Lock Haven University and worked as a high school history teacher before moving to the bustling community of Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1973. It was a decision that he never regretted. Terry joined the Eastern York school district as a guidance counselor, where he helped students shape the rest of their lives. At Eastern York, he met his future wife Sharon Szabo, and eventually served as head of the Guidance Department.
Terry went on to earn two Masters degrees, including one in Deaf Studies from the prestigious Gallaudet University, where he was one of the first known individuals to hypnotize a deaf person.
Terry was an accomplished athlete and coach, particularly in the discus and shot put. He was a three-time PSAC champion in discus (1965, 1967, and 1968) and a co-founder of Lancaster’s Long and Strong thrower’s club. He was an avid reader, too, especially books focused on history, science, or the future. In his later years, he became interested in genealogy and engaged in fiction writing as part of a local writer’s club. He also loved his iPad.
Terry was empathetic and insightful about human nature, which made him the family’s go-to for counsel during crises or difficulties. He also had a boisterous sense of humor. His sons Sid and Sam fondly remember Terry taking them to see Jurassic Park in the theater five times, but also for introducing them to football, science fiction, and history. Flan was his favorite dessert, cashews were his favorite snack, and Cat’s in the Cradle by Harry Chapin was his favorite song.
He’ll be greatly missed by his family, friends, former students and colleagues, and fellow athletes.
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Condolences to the Family
October 24, 2024
I was the guidance counselor from the Technical high school and Terry was the designated person to coordinate our incoming students from Eastern. It was always a pleasure that to work with and I enjoyed his professionalism and friendship.
September 30, 2024
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Mr, Shuman. When I came to Eastern in 1976 as a 7th grader, I had intense school phobia because I got beat up a lot. Even now, nearly 50 years later, I have never come across a person who understood a 12-13 year old any better than he did. For whatever reason, I never became a good high school student (GPA around 2.0). Long story short, I went on to get bachelors, masters, and doctorate learning how to be a 4.0 student. I still remember your kindness and your inspiring words to me. It has always stayed with me. I thank you for the impact that you had on my life and I know that God is looking after you in heaven.
George Newcomer
September 26, 2024
Mr. Shuman was my guidance counselor. I was new to the school and country having moved from Mexico. He was kind, understanding and made me feel safe. Thank you for being the light that I needed. I am so sorry he’s gone. I am thankful I met him.
Marlene Dancil (Ruby)
September 04, 2024
Terry and I were great friends in Jersey Shore, PA high school in 1964. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing.
Louie Wheeland
September 01, 2024
RIP Terry. We will always remember you as a friend, good Pequea neighbor, a fabulous free thinker, and a sharp witted man.
Faith &Gil Delaney
August 30, 2024
I met Terry in the masters track world over 30 years ago. He was excellent in the advice he provided in the throwing events. He was a wonderful person and it was one of the highlights of my life to see Terry at the Pennsylvania outdoor high school track meet each year. He was a true friend who will be missed by all who knew him.
John Lang
August 29, 2024
An impactful man, a friend to all he met. As a young coach, I learned many lessons from him that carried me through my career. His laugh was contagious and his stories hilarious!
RIP Coach Shuman
Curt Rogers
August 29, 2024
To the Shuman family. Terry was one of the finest men I have know. He had a great mind, a caring heart, and a curiosity about life. I know he made me a better person by his friendship. I also know that he made a difference in the lives of so many young people, far more than we will ever know. He will be missed!
Larry Nawa
August 29, 2024
Terry will NEVER be forgotten. He touched me like he did so many others. 💜
Glenn Armand Thompson
