Francis Shuler Obituary

Francis Lanier Shuler ST. GEORGE, SC - Dr. Francis Lanier Shuler, DVM, 83, husband of Doris W. Shuler entered into eternal rest on Wednesday morning, February 17, 2010, at Colleton Medical Center. Funeral Services will be held 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 19, 2010, in the St. George United Methodist Church with the Reverends Dennis Mardis and Clay Shook officiating. Burial will follow in The Providence United Methodist Church Cemetery, Holly Hill, SC. Visitation will be Thursday evening, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at BRYANT FUNERAL HOME, ST. GEORGE. Dr. Shuler was born on Easter Sunday, April 4, 1926, in Providence Community of Orangeburg County on the land his ancestors were granted in the 1700's, a son of the late Samuel Richard and Winifred "Winnie" Long Shuler. He was predeceased by a brother Richard Mendel Shuler. He learned much about farming, dairying, and a love of animals from his father and a love of education from his mother. He lived and attended rural schools in that community until he left for college. He began his higher education at the University of South Carolina from 1942-1943. After his freshman year, he returned home to help his father on the farm. At age 18, he entered the U.S. Navy receiving his boot camp training at Baimbridge, Maryland. He served as Quartermaster aboard a tanker, U.S.S. Chuckawan, in the Carribean. After his 18 month hitch in the Navy, he attended the Citadel, picking up a few courses that he would need for Pre-Vet. He then moved to Gadsden, Alabama with $35.00 in his pocket and a letter of introduction to a friend of a friend. He lived and worked there until he established residence hoping to get into Auburn. After his acceptance to Vet School, he married Doris Wakefield. He graduated 5th in his class of 60 students and began a mixed practice in St. George, SC, in July 1953. He served the upper part of Dorchester County ever since. He was a member and past Vice-President of Phi Zeta, Member of A.V.M.A, member and past Vice President of SCVMA, and life member of Auburn Alumni Association. In 1992, he was selected as South Carolina Veterinarian of the Year. He was a member and past commander of the American Legion, Post 105. He was instrumental in founding Dorchester Academy, serving as Chairman of the Board for the first 5 years and was still an ex-officio member of the board. When the school decided to build a gymnasium, along with his practice, he undertook the job as "volunteer overseer". For all his time and devotion given to the school over the years, the gym was named in his honor. He enjoyed traveling, bridge, sports, especially fishing, and good food but mostly he enjoyed his family and friends. He was a member of St. George United Methodist Church and served on the Board of Trustees for three years and Board of Stewards for three years. Surviving is his loving wife of 60 years, Doris W. Shuler; two sons, Eric (Elizabeth) Shuler, Mt. Pleasant and Dr. Glenn (LaDonne) Shuler, St. George; grandchildren, Marian, Lanier, Shawn, Stacy, Matthew, Paul, Hannah and Samuel; four great-grandchildren, Kristin, Jacob, Atticus and Amelia. Visit our guestbook at www.postandcourier.com/deaths