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Obituary For David Gary Shuman
In Loving Memory of David G Shuman
January 11, 1945 – October 29, 2025
The world lost a legend, curmudgeon, and Santa Claus all rolled into one on October 29th, 2025. David hung up his tool belt and Santa suit for the last time, leaving behind a trail of laughter, eye rolls, and memories that will echo through every creaky floorboard he ever fixed.
Born on January 11, 1945, David spent his life perfecting the art of maintenance—whether it was fixing a leaky faucet, tinkering with engines, or duct-taping things that probably shouldn’t be duct-taped. He would MacGyver a solution to just about anything, usually while muttering something sarcastic under his breath.
But it wasn’t all wrenches and wisecracks. For years, he moonlighted as Santa Claus, bringing joy (and just a touch of bah-humbug) to kids and adults alike. His most famous gigs? Riding the rails as Santa on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and surfing it up at the Ala Moana Center Mall in Hawaii, where he spread holiday cheer with a twinkle in his eye and a candy cane in his pocket—though he’d never admit he enjoyed it.
Stubborn as a mule and sharp as a tack, David had a sense of humor that could light up a room—or at least make you groan and laugh at the same time. He was the kind of guy who’d argue with a GPS, win, and still end up at the right destination.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 46 years, Sherry Shuman, who somehow tolerated him since November 24, 1979. He passed just shy of their anniversary, probably to avoid buying a gift.
He also leaves behind 2 sons, Jeremy and Ben. His daughter, Amie and her husband Zachariah. He was preceded in death by his son, Shayne, who passed in 2024 and is survived by his wife, Kristina. He leaves four grandkids who inherited his sense of humor and possibly his stubborn streak: Jeb, Cori, Hailey and Eli. Eli affectionately called David Grandaddy Grumpface. And of course, his loyal fur babies: Holly and Jules (let’s face it- the actual favorites), who are still waiting for treats and belly rubs.
He leaves behind a garage full of tools, Santa suits that smell faintly of peppermint, and a family who will miss him fiercely—but will keep his spirit alive through sarcastic jokes, stubborn debates, and fixing things the “wrong but effective” way.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you fix something that’s been broken for too long, tell a good joke, or dress up as Santa just once—even if you’re more Grinch than Claus. Extra points to those who do all three at once.
Rest easy, Dad. You were one of a kind, and we wouldn’t have changed a single thing (except maybe your thermostat settings).
We’ll keep the spirit alive, one sarcastic comment at a time.
Services to be scheduled at a later time.
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Mr Shuman was and amazing human being. He brought joy to my child and myself for many years on the Blue Ridge train. He always took the time to make my son feel special and had a huge heart. He will be dearly missed.
Wow. My husband and I have known David and Sherry for 41 years. I fondly remember the awesome way he used to prepare a good piece of red meat. He would chop it up for everyone to share and the sauce was scrumptious. Also I can still hear David's laugh in my head and always enjoyed sense of humor. One time in his season of being Santa we went out to eat. All the children would always be watching him. He would wink and nod and do his thing from across the restaurant. Amazing job to have. One time he and Sherry visited us at the beach and he wore a red swimsuit. He had pretty pale white skin and preceded eventually match the his swimsuit by the end of the day. Lol. I also remember that he and Sherri drove us to the airport after they attended our wedding. (Sherry was my maid of honor) good times. David we will miss you for now. Until we see you again in heaven. May the Lord bless you and keep you! Fly away home.
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Santa David was the very best Santa mentor who was and still is a tremendous encouragement to me and I know other fellow Santa's as well. Many thanks for founding the Northeast Georgia Real Bearded Santa's group. You inspired more than you could ever imagine. Blessings my friend, I know we will meet again when our Savior comes for all of us who place our trust in Him.
My sincere condolences to all of you. David was my Dad's youngest brother. My dad was Mark. As a young child, I remember David well. We actually called him Gary for years. Then he joined the military and came back as David. David preferred spending time with kids over adults , so I can see why he gravitated toward Santa. I had the privilege as an adult to see him in his glory on the train in Blueridge with some of my grandchildren. I did not have the opportunity to know David like I would have wanted to but I know he had a unique humor and genuine intentions to push your buttons. I will always have fond memories of him and I know that you all will miss him very much. Much love, prayers and comfort for you all. Laura Shuman Monroe Yarbrough
Rest in peace Santa Dave. It was great fun working with you on Blueridge scenic railway. Your son has your same sense of humor and has written the most honest and funny obituary that I have ever seen. That is a great legacy.
