Obituaries
Leon (Buddy) Glover, Jr., 71
February 11, 2021
Leon (Buddy) Glover, Jr., affectionately known as “Buddy,” passed on to Glory on Thursday, February 11, 2021, surrounded by family. Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on April 13, 1949, Buddy was the son of the late Romaine C. Ransom Glover Banks and Leon B. Glover, Sr.
Buddy Glover lived an exemplary life, driven by core values that guided him. These values: Family, Community, Education, Tradition, and Faith, became constant themes, woven into the tapestry of his life. Buddy attributed much of his success to his mother’s influence, her prayers, and her belief that education was the key to open many doors.
Family was central to Buddy’s life. He was the loving husband of Charlotte Splawn Thrash Glover. Their love story spanned four decades. They would have been married for 29 years next month. In his own words, Buddy described their family as, “a wonderful, blended family of children, who have and continue to, enrich our lives. This includes biological children, children by marriage, and others who have joined us. We are all one, big, happy family.”
Buddy is survived by his children: T. Benson Glover, Mariel Brinser, William “Smokey” Glover, Jameel Thrash, Alimayu Thrash, Maurice Thomas, Derrick Burch, Dina Burch, James “Jimmy” Gomez, Debbie Dalton, Darlene Dalton, Blaise Glover, and Calvert Gantz. Buddy was also blessed with a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy; and were often sighted at his side during adventures on the bus, at Central Market, and in Binns Park. Buddy is also survived by his two sisters Gwendolyn P. Glover and Donna “Bonnie” Glover, both of Lancaster.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three of his children: Ronald “Popie” Webb Jr., Allen Thomas, and Roosevelt McFadden. Sadly, Buddy recently lost his beloved brother Darryl L. Glover, who passed away unexpectedly in July 2020.
Buddy was a proud resident of Green Street, located in Lancaster City’s Seventh Ward. Although he often referenced his mother as his “strongest supporter and motivator,” he referred to the “Green Streeters” as his “neighborhood family.” Buddy was a firm believer in the impact of Communities. He credits the support, discipline, respect, and pride, instilled in him on Green Street as part of his success. He was working on the 7th Ward Oral History Project, up until the time of his passing.
Buddy Glover is best known for the fullness of his self-described “46-year relationship with the School District of Lancaster (SDOL), spending 13 years as a student and 33 years as an educator.” He attended Edward Hand Junior High School, prior to graduating from John Piersol McCaskey High School in 1967. He continued his education at Gettysburg College, where he received his BA in History in 1971. After graduation, Buddy was eager to return to Lancaster, now even more firmly grounded in the belief that “knowledge was power, that could and should be focused on the uplifting of people to create a just community.” He received his Teaching Certification from Franklin and Marshall College and went on to successfully complete his Master of Education at Millersville State College in 1979. His educational pursuits continued at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, where he earned both his Principal Certification and his Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility.
Buddy’s career with the school district began in 1971, where he served as the Director at the Higbee School Center, part of Neighborhood Services. One year later, he was promoted to Project Director, assuming oversight responsibility for four Centers. From 1974-78, Buddy was the Head Teacher and Building Administrator at the Adolescent Learning Center, where students were placed after being labeled as “disruptive.” The passionate way that Buddy embraced this placement truly illustrates how he lived his life. He never gave up on anyone, even if they seemed to have given up on themselves. He was a motivator, an encourager, and a champion. He believed that if students were exposed to possibilities, pathways, and mentors, that all could be successful.
Buddy Glover may best be recognized for his professional association with J.P. McCaskey High School, which began in 1978 as an Administrative Assistant for Attendance and Discipline. In 1981, he was promoted to Assistant Principal/House Principal, where he remained until 1987. During this period, Buddy traversed the entire city, by foot or bus, wearing his signature Chuck Taylor’s, to complete 5,000 home visits to incoming Sophomores and their parents. He believed that engagement, encouragement, and preparedness would lead to improved academic performance and increased graduation rates. He also piloted programs that allowed students to visit colleges, to expand their horizons and help them to visualize different professional paths.
Buddy became the first Black Principal in Lancaster County, when he took over the helm at Edward Hand Junior High School in 1987. He was proud of this distinction, and in his words, “even prouder of the many others of color who have served and still serve in principalship positions.” In 1990, Buddy began his career as an administrator, serving in numerous capacities, including Assistant Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and Interim Superintendent. Buddy retired from the SDOL on July 1, 2004 and was recognized with an Outstanding Service Award for his 33 years with the District.
He was an active member of many professional organizations, including the National Association of Secondary School Principals and the National Alliance of Black School Educators. He was a Charter member of the Lancaster Alliance of Black School Educators. Buddy’s engagement in the community included affiliations with: the United Way, the Urban League, Southeast Lancaster Sertoma, Lancaster County Community Foundation, Project Forward Leap, Lancaster Salvation Army, the Boys Club, Lancaster Youth for Cultural Enrichment, Demonstrate Against Drug Dealers (DADDs), and the NAACP. Buddy’s tireless commitment to the Lancaster community and its children, over the course of decades, earned him many awards and honors. He was recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus, both by McCaskey High School and Gettysburg College. He was honored with Service Awards by the Urban League, the NAACP, and the Boys Club. In his honor, Buddy had a tree dedicated at Carter & MacRae Elementary, a bench at Wickersham Elementary, and a community playground at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School.
Those who knew Buddy, know that he was a man who believed firmly in the importance of Tradition. Buddy’s Uncle, William “Mel” H. Ransom, Sr., who co-founded the Ransom Sease Family Reunion (RSFR) in 1959, played an integral role in shaping his views on family, tradition, and history. Buddy participated in the RSFR for 62 years, serving as the President for 14 years. His leadership and dedication within the RSFR group will live on through his children and future generations, as they are committed to carrying on his legacy. Buddy’s “card ministry” was another tradition that he faithfully upheld. He watched the example of his mother, and the way that she used her card ministry to uplift and support the community. Buddy carried on this tradition. There are thousands of people who can reference a card received from Buddy, with his signature words of encouragement and care. Buddy’s bears also became a part of his outreach. He saw himself, and was seen by others, as a “big, gentle bear.” He often included bears as a way to make connections with others and to show love.
The values of Faith and Faithfulness were instilled in Buddy by his mother. He was baptized and raised in the church. In times of trouble and need, Buddy was taught to lean on faith and to trust that the Lord will make a way. As an avid traveler, Buddy regularly made it a point to attend churches in the cities that he visited. He was open-minded and inquisitive when it came to religion. After riding out Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Buddy adopted New Orleans as a second home, officially joining Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church, led by Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. Additionally, he often attended Bright Side Baptist Church in Lancaster and was a lover of music, especially gospel.
Family, friends, and the community are invited to pay their respects during a public viewing this Friday, February 19, 2021 from 5-9pm at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, 25 South Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17602. The viewing will be held in the Heritage Ballroom on the third floor. Staff will be available onsite to answer questions. Parking is available in the garage at the Marriott, for $5 after 5pm. All visitors will be required to wear masks and observe social distancing guidelines.
The Homegoing Service to honor Buddy will be held on Saturday, February 20, 2021. Capacity restrictions due to Covid-19 necessitate a private, family service. However, we invite and encourage the community to join us via live stream. The service will begin at 11am and can be accessed by visiting https://www.yourjourneychurch.com. The link to the virtual service will be prominent on the home page. Please join us virtually to celebrate the life and legacy of Leon “Buddy” Glover, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be sent to Advantage Lancaster, which is an education-based non-profit organization, founded at Southeast Middle School (formerly known as Edward Hand), by educators Ty Bair and Shayne Meadows. The organization was created to provide learning opportunities that expand beyond traditional instruction, giving its participants valuable experiences that transcend the confines of the classroom. Buddy was an important contributor to Advantage Lancaster, serving as a mentor, advisor, and inaugural board member. The organization’s mission aligns directly with Buddy’s focuses on Education and Community. Donations can be mailed to Advantage Lancaster, 1100 E. Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 or submitted online at Advantagelancaster.org, by selecting “Donors.” Please add “In Memory of Buddy Glover” on the memo line.
Watch the tribute videoLeave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
February 23, 2021
My prayers are with the Glover family and all those he touched, which were probably in the thousands. He was truly a great man and a gentleman in every sense of the word. Although my interactions with Buddy after high school graduation were infrequent, usually a brief discussion at our McCaskey Class of 67 reunions, I kept up with his rapid incredible advancement in the educational and community development fields. We were teammates on the Red Tornado football team, and he was a very gifted athlete. But it is fitting that his obiturary glosses over his athletic achievements, because those were so inconsequential to the compassionate, inspirational man he had become. God bless you, Buddy, and God bless his family and many friends. Chuck Grezlak, JP McCaskey Class of 1967
February 20, 2021
I haven’t seen you all for many years, but who you were to us ALWAYS stood firm. I was a former Edward Hand Junior High Student and J.P. McCaskey High Student and my mom, Betty Poole was a Guidance Counselor at Lincoln Junior High School. We both respected the work that you did in the community and was very proud to call you friend.
Keep watch over us Mr. Glover and Mrs. Charlotte and Family we are lifting you up in prayer! Blessings!
Natasha Poole
February 20, 2021
Buddy i will miss you . You embraced me right into our family encouraged me to attend our family reunions.
When i finally attended one of the reuions which I had not attend in a very long time Buddy you where excited for me. Buddy’s love and kindness I will always carry with me. Buddy made you proud to be a member of the Ransom -Sease Family. And that smile you had for everyone I will never forget . Rest in God’s loving Arms.
Couisn, Sharon Dowling-jiles
February 20, 2021
We are so sorry to learn of the passing of Buddy and sending our condolences to the entire Glover family. The service offered appropriate tribute to this great man and impressive community leader – it was special to hear the stories and memories of life with Buddy. The world needs more Buddy’s…
Smokey we are thinking of you and your family. And when Lancaster is done mourning, let’s dedicate a day to wearing those iconic Black Chuck Taylor’s 😉
With sympathy,
Craig, Jenn, the Schonour family
February 20, 2021
Mariel, Sorry to hear of your loss. Your father was a good man and respected by many. He will be missed by all!
Joan Asso and Family
February 20, 2021
Sending my deepest condolences to Ms. Charlotte and family. Mrs. Glover, my heart is breaking for you, sending you love and strength in this time of loss. I am honored to have met Mr. Glover and will be missed.
Carmen Guaigua
February 20, 2021
to the amazing family of leon buddy glover
sending my thoughts and prayers. it was nice to finally meet the family of leon buddy glover wish the circumstances would have been different. smokey it was great to see you again. i remember buddy coming to our house before my freshman year at j.p. mccaskey high school. this made a lasting impression on me for life. in honor of Leon buddy Glover i signed a Petition change the name of edward hand mddle school and suggested it to be named leon buddy glover middle school or buddy glover middle school rest in peace buddy
joe scheurich jr
February 20, 2021
My condolences to the family, my prayers and thoughts are with you. I met Buddy when I was in school, he was someone that left a footprint on ur heart, someone you will never forget. He will be missed.
Betty Turner
February 20, 2021
My deepest sympathy to Charlotte and family. Thank you all for sharing Buddy with SDOL. He was a leader with a big ❤.
Susan Grimm McCoy Mattox
February 20, 2021
Sending my deepest condolences to the Glover Family. From Priscilla Gardner Murphy
February 19, 2021
My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Heaven has gained a very special man.
Buddy was a great man. I also remember when he came out to the houses before starting 10th grade.
Buddy would talk to you, when he was out and about downtown.
I hope they do rename the old Hand middle school for him. He did so much for the school district of Lancaster
Jennifer Trimble Davis
Class of 1986
February 19, 2021
Buddy was such an inspiration to all! I enjoyed working with him at McCaskey and had so much respect for him as an educator and human being. Wishing you peace.
Deb VanPelt
February 19, 2021
My sincere condolences to the Glover family. I worked at McCaskey with Buddy, first as our Principal and then as our Superintendent. He influenced me to become a better educator and a better person. His gentle but effective model for discipline was one of the most important tools he taught me that has stayed with me throughout my career. I will always remember him as a mentor, role model. May Buddy’s memory be eternal. May you all find comfort knowing he is always going to be with you in your hearts. Fondly, Maria Hazangeles Grant
February 19, 2021
To the Glover Family,
Our most sincere condolences to all members of the family. It will be strange going to a McCaskey football game and not seeing Buddy standing by the track fence under the scoreboard.
With our deepest sympathy, Bernie and Penny Santaniello
February 19, 2021
Buddy, came into our lives with the marriage of Charlotte (sister-in-love and aunt), and warmly welcoming her sons, Jameel and Alimayu (nephews and cousins) into the Glover Family. We too will miss his Christmas card notes, broad smile and larger-than-life heart which was always filled with love for all. Jennie Thrash-Crichlow, Robert Crichlow, Jennie Crichlow and Miriam Crichlow
February 19, 2021
I will miss Buddy. A friend of many years whom I respected for his genuine concern about family and community. My condolences to the Glover family who has lost its patriarch
Leroy Hopkins
February 19, 2021
Family. Prayers for your loss. I knew Buddy thru the bus company. He usually got on at Bridgeport and rode to McCaskey or downtown. Some Friday nights he would wear a McCaskey alunmi shirt and go to the football game. He was a well respected man. All was calm on the bus when he rode. It was always “hi, Mr. Glover or hey Buddy”. He touched alot of lives in Lancaster and has earned his wings. So now lets do our jobs, rename Hand to Buddy Glover Middle School. A great tribute to one of our own, a man called “Buddy”.
robert a danz
February 19, 2021
To Friends and Family of Leon “Buddy” Glover –
I offer my heartfelt condolences. While I never had the honor of meeting Buddy, his reputation preceded him, and I had always hoped to meet him. Thankfully, I have gotten to know him through his good deeds and the people he so positively influenced. Lancaster is a better place because of his important contributions to education, the youth, music, and beyond. Douglas Smith
February 19, 2021
To Smokey and Family,
My condolences and prayers are with you during this time. I didn’t know Mr. Buddy but he sure was an amazing man. Treasure those memories and it will get you through.
Dionne Waldron McNeal
February 18, 2021
My condolences to the Glover family,Buddy’s passing is truly a hurt piece he was awesome Man, Coach & friend ,always positive and a warm smile and it seems he always knew what to say & how to say it, I remember when my mother passed I was just devastated & a heavy heart full of pain, it was the card I received in the mail and what it said from Buddy Glover a couple days later that without a doubt strengthen a broken heart and got my feet back underneath me!! That was over 20 yrs ago & that card is still very special to me!! THANK YOU MY FRIEND WE WILL MISS YOU! R.I.P. “BUDDY” ❤
February 18, 2021
I can not put into words the sadness in my heart because of the loss of my lifelong friend and brother, Buddy Glover. To Charlotte, Gwenie, Bonnie, and the Glover family, please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I will miss my phone calls with Buddy where he would give me updates on the news back home in Lancaster. I will miss seeing Buddy and Charlotte on their trips to New Orleans, which because like a second home to them. Most of all, I will miss my friend. A piece of me is now missing. I take the greatest comfort in knowing that my friend is only asleep and will one day awaken at the “sound of the trumpet!” “Well done thy good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
Alterman “Chip” Jackson – Proud Green Streeter
February 18, 2021
Buddy was a great guy, and a model citizen. We worked together about 30 years ago in the STEP science enrichment program for Lancaster middle schoolers. Buddy represented the best of public education. Whenever I would see him at a festival or somewhere else in town, he always had a smile and a kind word for me and my family. He will be missed.
Rob Sternberg
February 18, 2021
I send my sincere condolences to the Glover and extended family. I met Buddy in about 1970 as a young boy and member of the Lancaster Elks youth football team which practiced at Washington Elementary School and Davey Arnold Field. Buddy was a young man and helping as an assistant coach for the team. I have no doubt there will be others who played on those teams who will comment here. Even though 50 years ago, Buddy left a mark on me as being a man who was always positive and had a smile for us every day. I would bump into him now and then until my graduation from McCaskey in 1977 and he always remembered who I was. He has left an indelible mark on Lancaster and hundreds and hundreds of kids. What an amazing role model we had for all of those years. God bless you, Buddy. There is no doubt that Jesus has welcomed you in Heaven with open arms and a big hug. Job well done!
Steve Long
February 18, 2021
To the Family and friends of buddy Glover, I want to “Thank You” for your support and challenges that made him a better person. I remember walking from the locker room to the practice field at McCaskey, Buddy would start to sing, giving us a feeling of unity. Later in life, we would meet, Buddy had a way of making a person feel special. Thanks for being a special friend !
Sandra & Richard Frantz
February 18, 2021
A letter I wrote to Buddy several years ago..
Dear Coach Buddy,
This letter is long overdue, but I finally got your e-mail from the Scott boys who are here at Brookline High. Since I left you I have coached about seven sports for who knows how many seasons. I have been a teacher since I went to Kenya in 1984.
Buddy, I cannot count how many times I have related to people in school and on the field, that “I had a football coach for two years who never raised his voice in anger.” After my Sophomore year with a head coach who was inclined to grab facemasks and question a player’s manhood, (we went 0-11 and his frustration did not help) you were a drastic contrast. I remember in the first game of the next season, against Harrisburg, I got trap blocked and they scored. I went to the bench and held my left side. I saw you coming over, and was ready for the worst. You sat beside me, waited for a moment, and asked quietly, “Do you want to know what they did? Nobody likes to get knocked on their butt in front of all these people.” I was all ears and ready for what I would now call a teachable moment. You reminded me of the proper read when the tackle goes out on the tight end and the guard on the linebacker. You had taught me this before, of course, but there was no anger, only patience, in your voice. You said they were bound to run the same play again. They ran the play again (duh!) on the next series, but I hit the brakes, stepped to the inside, remained parallel, engaged the pulling backside guard with my inside shoulder and ate up the ballcarrier. You never even said “I told you so”, and let me take all the credit, even when I did it again in the second half.
This and so many other things you said, but mostly demonstrated, have informed my coaching and teaching for 25 years.
Thank you so very much.
Robert Grant, #76, class of ’78
Robert Grant
20 McKinley Ave
Beverly MA 01915
February 18, 2021
My children’s father Mark wasn’t the best student at McCaskey. He didn’t really care. But in 11th grade something clicked and at graduation he won the Buddy Glover turn around award. He passed away 2 years ago but after serving the Lancaster City Police for 19 years….having 2 awesome sons. That award.. well it was probably one of the biggest accomplishments of his life and he was proud to tell the kids he won it. He certainly had an impact on students. Even as an administrator.. he knew us. Hundreds of us. He always treated us fairly and with utmost care and a huge smile. It was an honor knowing him. Lancaster is a better place because of him.
Allison Smithgall
February 17, 2021
To the family and friends of Leon Buddy Glover sending my prayers and thoughts with his recent passing away. I got to know Buddy on one of his trips he made during his home visits. I am from the class of 1986 and buddy was are class principal. I fell in love with what buddy stood for and his encouragement and making me the man I am. I remember it was our senior class carnival and Buddy personally asked me to help with the carnival and then asked me to help count the money from the fair. I always loved seeing Buddy around the hallways of McCaskey high school or I would just take a trip into his office for my daily inspiration and encouragement. If it wasn’t for Buddy I don’t think I would have graduated from McCaskey and probably would have dropped out. Always looked forward to see Buddy supporting the football team and his wonderful son. Smokey. I still can’t believe he passed away but BUDDY LIVES IN ME AND ALWAYS WITH ME. I was sent the website for rename Edward Hand junior high school to Leon Buddy Glover middle school or Buddy Glover middle school in his honor. This is how much he touched my life. god blessjoe Scheurich Jr
class of 1986 McCaskey high school
Rest In Peace
Leon Buddy Glover
till I see you again in heaven
February 17, 2021
My name is Elva Buddy was my principal at McCaskey he was a good guy always making sure everyone was good he will be missed
Elva M Shelly
February 17, 2021
Hello, Charlotte and family. I was deeply saddened to hear that Buddy left this world so suddenly and unexpectedly. He was such an amazing and wonderful man who devoted so much of his life to help and support the youth of Lancaster. He was a such a tremendous, role model, a leader, and an inspiration to students and teachers in the SDoL. Please know that lots of hugs and love are headed your way. Take care and treasure all the good memories to carry you through the pain. Love, Mary Forster
February 17, 2021
A Pillar in the Community, he showed Love to Everybody. Thank You Sir, take Your Rest 💙
Melissa Carter-Coleman
February 17, 2021
Dear Charlotte and Family,
Was shocked to hear of his death. As you know he called me about a week before and we had a wonderful hour chat sharing our memories of SDoL, trips to Colorado Springs, New Orleans, Board retreats, etc. He was a true ambassador for the SDoL and his family. His big smile will be missed by all who knew him…RIP Brother….Dave and Rochelle Rentschler
February 17, 2021
Dear Family of Buddy Glover , sending along my condolence to all of you during this very difficult time . Buddy was such a wonderful person on so many levels . Our community and SDOL was so blessed to have him in our lives . One of the things for me that stands out as stated in his obituary is …He never gave up on anyone , even if they seemed to have given up on themselves. That resonates with me in so many ways . I am one of his students from jp mccaskey class of 1982. If not for Buddy , i would not have graduated high school . I was headed down a destructive path and Buddy never gave up on me !! My parents gave up , but not Buddy . He was firm and followed through with dicipline and at the same time with warmth, kindness and love . quite frankly , looking back , i dont know how he dealt with me for 3 years . After high school I became a mom and I implemented what I learned from Buddy during my child rearing years. many years ago , i was picking up my youngest daughter from Wickersham elementary School and noticed Buddy sitting on a bench in front of the School (the Buddy bench if i recall correctly) I walked up and extended my hand to him and thank him for all he did for me when I was a student and to let him know , he was the reason i graduated . I then proceeded to introduce my Daughter to him and after Buddy said hello to her , she said “Mommy was a very bad kid when she was in school ” He replied , “sweetie there are no bad children , just children with bad issues . your mommy just had bad issues . Today my youngest is going to college and studying human/social services and lives by that statement Buddy said to her on that day and she repeats it often . My older Daughter is now a registred nurse with a BA . Both girls are the first generation in our family to attend college . I owe this to Buddy because without him mentoring me , sticking with me everyday like glue , I am sure the outcome of my life and my childrens lives would not have turned out as well as they did . I am sure that many hundreds of SDOL students have similar stories. We were also blessed to know him . Sincerely , Christine Cummins (nee Weichel) .
February 17, 2021
R.I.P Buddy will always remember all the encouraging words
Omaira Rodriguez
February 17, 2021
My condolences to the family. Buddy was a positive force in my life and I will always treasure that. He always expressed to look ahead to what I wanted to be when I grew up and that education was the key! He was instrumental in showing education as a path to live life. He will be missed but his life lessons will live on and plant seeds of growth as we all remember him. RIP Buddy
Tracy “Bair” Leaks
February 17, 2021
I am so sorry to see that Buddy has gone on to be with his Lord. BUddy was a wonderful colleague and friend to me in his roles in the Shool District of Lancaster and in several community organizations in which we both participated. I really respected his mild manner and calm way of dealing with whatever situation might come up. He was dedicated to making things right. His values were deeply held and clear to everyone. I was fortunated to have worked closely with him for many years and it is sad that he has left us so soon.
Kirk and Marsha Fisher
February 17, 2021
Our condolences to the Glover family, may peace and blessings be with you during this difficult time🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Steven Simms
- Services
- Friday, February 19, 2021
- 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
- 25 South Queen Street
- Lancaster, PA 17602
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