The book of life was opened for Thurman DeMarest Shuler on May 5, 1934 in Orangeburg, SC to the late Harry Evans and Rosebud Shuler (Walker). He entered into eternal rest after an extended illness on July 18, 2025.
At the age of 12, Thurman became a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church under the pastorage of Rev. Lee Malcolm Tyler and served faithfully in many capacities until his health failed. A few of the many positions held included being Minister of Music for several of the choirs for 47 years, Principal of Vacation Bible School, Superintendent of Sunday Church School, Musician for Sunday Church School, helped with the organization of the Pastoral Aid Club, a member of The Men of Mount Calvary Brotherhood as the treasure etc.
He received his early education at Riverside Elementary School, Dunton Memorial Elementary and Wilkinson High School. At South Carolina State College he was the recipient of a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and a Master of Education Degree, A Principals Certificate for Secondary Schools. He did further studying in the Doctoral program at the University of South Carolina in British Literature. After completing his ROTC training at South Carolina State University, he commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the Artillery Branch of the Army in 1957. He also served three years in the military as a Specialist E-4.
Mr. Shuler taught a total 31 years at the following schools across South Carolina: Roberts High School (Holly Hill); Jefferson High School (York), Battery Park High School (Nesmith), John Ford High School (St. Matthews) and Calhoun County High School (St. Matthews). He taught Adult Education at John Ford High School for many years and instructed private piano lessons for more than four decades.
Some of Mr. Shuler professional affiliation included the National, state and county teacher’s associations, president of the Orangeburg Orthodox Baptist Church Convention, served twice as president of the Calhoun County Education Association; twice as Teacher of the Year, President of the Music Division of Athletic Activities Association District 8, Department of South Carolina (1968-1970); volunteer work as musician for the Orangeburg County Council of Aging (1992-2012); a Life Member of the NAACP; Vice- President of AARP Orangeburg Chapter 2455 (Dec. 4, 2014). In 2018 he became a member of the Thomas E. Miller Society.
Thurman leaves to cherish his beautiful and precious memories two sisters: Arnetta R. Walker-Houser of Orangeburg, SC and Bernice Randolph-Edwards for Philadelphia, PA; one brother: Lynwood (Loretta) Walker of Orangeburg, SC ; three godsons: Rashad Owens, William McKenzie and Kareem Thompson; sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

The service will proceed as follows: 

The viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 23,2025 at Mount Calvary Baptist Church 3365 North Rd. Orangeburg, SC from 3:00pm-6:00pm. 

The funeral will be held on Thursday, July 24,2025 at Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center 300 College Ave. Orangeburg, SC beginning at 11:00am. All those attending service must wear a mask adhere to all COVID-19 rules and regularions.