Obituaries
Leon “Buddy” Glover, Jr.
February 11, 2021
Leon “Buddy” Glover, Jr. of Lancaster, PA passed away Thursday, February 11, 2021.
Buddy’s funeral services are being planned and will be announced on Wednesday.
Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
March 24, 2021
I am sad to read of Buddy’s passing. We had recently connected and my husband and I were planning to make a visit to Buddy.
I was a teacher at Edward Hand in 1973 to 1975 and we became friends.
Buddy was a dedicated educator and many students benefitted from his love and dedication.
He will be missed.
Maureen Barry
March 01, 2021
To Buddy’s family, my sincerest and heart-felt condolences on your loss. Buddy was a giant in so many ways, but we all carry a piece of him in our hearts. He is gone home, but he will never be forgotten. I wanted to share something that I recently sent to the School District of Lancaster’s Superintendent and School Board:
February 23, 2021
Dear Superintendent Rau, Robin Goodson, and Members of the School Board,
I read recently with great sadness, that one of the giants of education community in Lancaster had passed away. Leon “Buddy” Glover was an Assistant Principal at J.P. McCaskey High School when I was a student there so long ago now. While those years are somewhat a distant memory, what is not a distant memory are the fond recollections I have of Buddy. Buddy was a tour de force of kindness. His towering height may have been intimidating if not always in juxtaposition with his giant warm smile that he so often wore. He seemed to always be around whether in the halls between classes, after school for sporting events, or even in the summer preparing new students for the transition to high school. His kindness and care for all students was his defining quality, but he was so much more. He was an ambassador that brought kids from any part of Lancaster together to get the best education possible.
I admit, we were blessed in my years to have some exceptional teachers and staff. But I see photos of Buddy now 30 years later and that incredible smile brings back so many memories. I can hear his booming voice and boisterous laugh ring down the hallways. I also recall the soft-spoken gentle giant taking kids aside and having the most serious heart-to-heart conversations about their lives. He genuinely took an interest in everyone and making them feel an equal part of the community.
Buddy broke down barriers of race, creed and color because he did not see people as brown, white, yellow, or red. He saw them as fertile minds that needed to prepare for their future. He saw us all as one community, but he interacted with us intently one student at time. He knew there were still barriers to overcome, but he also was exceptionally skilled at demonstrating to us all through word and deed that we are all born equal and should treat each other as such. It has been too many years since I’ve seen Buddy, and while his life was cut way too short, I hope the School District of Lancaster strongly considers renaming Hand/Southeast Middle School after him. There have been several articles detailing Buddy’s commitment to the community of Lancaster, and after serving so honorably as the Principal of Hand MS, it is very fitting to name the building after him.
I am very glad to see the school district look more closely at the names they give to their buildings. Having buildings named for historical figures that owned slaves is only a constant reminder of our heritage of slavery in the US and an impediment to ensuring racial equality. Having a school that Buddy attended and worked in represent his name is a much more fitting way to memorialize his legacy as well as provide recognition of a true hero of the Lancaster community.
Sincerely,
Brian Sauders, Ph.D.
J.P. McCaskey Class of 1989
March 01, 2021
I had the privilege and honor to work with Buddy Glover in the School District of Lancaster. I started as a Guidance Counselor then became an Assistant Principal and Principal at oReynolds Middle School. I completed my 17 years with the School District of Lancaster in 1985 as the Director of Personnel. Buddy was always the person we needed and used to bring stability and calm to situations that could become a major problem or disruption for the School District. While he was always a champion and advocate for ALL students, he did so with care, compassion and fairness for ALL those involved. Yes, he was the one we needed for solving student related issues. But he was even more aggressive in suggesting and demanding more programs to meet the needs of ALL students.
Buddy Glover was always a champion for all students. As he moved into administrative positions, he continued to make decisions, programs and actions to meet the needs of all students. Buddy was an outstanding educator, but most of all he was an outstanding person.
Dr David L. Witmer
105 Lancaster Ave, Strasburg, PA 17579
February 22, 2021
Dearest Charlotte and family our rock and pillar has been given his well-earned rest. But, we all know that his legacy endures through you (the other half of the Dynamic Duo) and each of us with the actions we choose to take in our lives. Just as he did. We are truly blessed to have had such a man touch our lives!
Aleece E. Olan
February 21, 2021
On behalf of the Gettysburg College alumni community, I extend our sincere condolences to Mr. Glover’s entire family. We were proud and honored to have him as an alumnus, and had been looking forward to presenting his 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award to him in person. He made a positive impact everywhere he went, and will be greatly missed.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Joe Lynch ’85, Alumni Director
February 20, 2021
My condolences go out to the family! Mr. Glover had a smile that would bring a smile to your face even when you were sad about something. I would alway see him when I was walking through town.
Schirlyn Kamara
February 20, 2021
Thank you to the family for live streaming the services today so that we at home could watch.
Linda Alexander, classmate
George Washington Elementary, Edward Hand Junior High and JP McCaskey, class of 1967
February 20, 2021
Our sincere condolences Family for the loss of Buddy. He will truly be missed by all. Sending prayers and love.
Sararh Ransom Griffin and Family
February 20, 2021
God bless Buddy Glover! He and I wore matching Converse sneakers, but he was matchless in every other way. His goodness, his wisdom, his passion for children and eductation, and his kind and caring nature was simply unparalleled. It was a true honor and joy to know him. May his memory be a blessing to all his family and many friends. Love and miss you, Buddy!
Barry Kornhauser
February 20, 2021
Dear Charlotte and family, I am so sorry to learn of Buddy’s passing. He leaves an incredible legacy and will be missed by all who had the pleasure to have known him; especially my Mom. She is so greatfull to have had Buddy in her life. He was a remarkable man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. May, Jesus, the Prince of Peace, continue to give you comfort.
Tom McCarty
February 19, 2021
The the Glover, Trash family. I have always admired Buddy. He was so down to earth, he never changed no matter how high he climbed in his career. Mr. Glover was a positive role model for our young people. My condolences to all; the family, SDOL, and the community. God Bless
Luz D Tiru
February 19, 2021
May God continue to watch over your family at this time of sadness. I had known Buddy since elementary school (George Washington) and was part of the Class of 1967 of J P McCaskey. He drew respect from all who knew him. Such a sweet soul with a contagious smile. He touched many lives showing how hard work, respect of others and caring are all important in your life’s walk. He always went the extra mile to help others. My sincerest sympathy and prayers are with you.
Beverly Brubaker
February 19, 2021
Charlotte and family – My sincere sympathies. I worked with Buddy for many years at SDofL. The caring he showed for the students was also given to his colleagues. You didn’t work for Buddy, you worked with him. He taught me so many things about education that helped me do my job better. The Lancaster community has lost a great one.
Eleanor Bosserman
February 19, 2021
To the Family! Thanks for sharing such a beautifully spirited person. His influence in and around the Lancaster community will be greatly missed. I shall always remember that smile and laughter from his heart. His warmth and spirit will always be with me and all who knew him.
Newton Brown
February 18, 2021
Charlotte and family have our condolences and prayers . Buddy and I first met and became friends in 1959 when he came to visit his father. He, Darryl and myself would hangout and do different things in the streets of downtown Beaver Falls. So glad God put this man in my life’s pathway. He will be missed. Rest easy my friend.
Willie Scott Sr & SuAnn
February 18, 2021
My husband and I both worked with Buddy at SDoL. A man of integrity and wisdom second to none. George passed 1 1/2 years ago after a lengthy illness. Buddy was the one person he wanted to have one more conversation with. Charlotte and family, so sorry for your loss.
Joanne Meshew
February 18, 2021
This feels surreal. This month, I received, what I now know was, my last written note in the mail from Buddy. As usual, I gently smiled as I saw Buddy’s mail and enormously grinned, as I read his note. I will always remember Buddy’s warm spirit, comforting smile and handwritten notes. -Sophia Carter-Parker
February 18, 2021
Deepest sympathy to the Glover family. Buddy was such an incredible man. He was always so kind to us students at JPM. He will be dearly missed. May the family, friends and all that knew him find comfort in the memories shared with him. May he rest in peace.
Andie
February 17, 2021
It is with a heavy heart that I write this after hearing of the shocking dead of this inspiring man. He was the heart and soul of the school district. He was a man like no other with a huge heart dedicated to children. I was blessed to know him. David and I offer love and prayers to his dear wife Charlotte. May God wrap his arms around you and give you comfort. Love David and Sandy Kreider
February 17, 2021
Our deepest sympathy to the family. Michael Patton and family
February 17, 2021
If I only had one word to describe Buddy, it would be: Gentleman! Our son seen Buddy many times in his office. The reason he graduated! I attended Edward Hand and McCaskey (’75) Buddy’s name should forever be embedded on this junior high school on South Ann Street. Buddy rode my dad’s bus many, many times and dad (Don Reese) would always speak highly of Buddy. Thank you Lord for allowing Buddy into our lives.
Mark Reese and family
February 17, 2021
I had the pleasure of meeting this great,caring man in my JR year at McCadkey high school. He always had time for me. He was the reason I stayed in school and Graduated.
My condolences and Prayers to his family.
RIP Buddy I will always love you in memory and in my heart
Michelle Gardner
February 17, 2021
Mr. Leon “Buddy” Glover surely left an impact on the respect of God, education, community uplift, cultural awareness, focus, human development, and the power of one man to influence (again under God) positively our young people. The last time that I saw Buddy was at a Home Going service for a mutual friend, Steven “Bird” Powell, former Basketball Coach of McKasky High School. He smiled at me, gave me a hug, talked with me briefly, took my card, & as always, made me “feel like a million bucks”. “Well done ye faithful servant”. Rest in peace.
Richard W. Allen
February 17, 2021
Words can’t express what Mr. Glover meant to me. He was so professional yet loving and understanding. He listened and never made one feel belittled. He lead not only with professionalism but with heart. I know he is in his heavenly home. Ms. Charlotte may God give you consolation and strength along with all the rest of family.🙏🙏🙏
Ramona Rivera Navedo
February 17, 2021
Buddy,
Rest is Peace …McCaskey, … Sports, Football, helping the youth… Corner of the End Zone is where we would talk.. Love Always, Kenny Myers Kegel’s Produce
February 17, 2021
Our Sincere Condolences to your Family! I grew up with the Glover’s, a wonderful family to know! Keeping you in all in our prayers at this time. 😔❤
Charlotte Weeks
February 17, 2021
Sending prayers/condolences to Charlotte n family from Earl,Mary,Bonnie,Papa Boots. Buddy so much history with the Glover family being neighbors on Christian/Green St, 67 classmates, track teamates n working with U as outreach worker at Hand/McCaskey. U often shared with me about U being firm/fair/consistent. Frank Sinatra’s song My Way reflects to me U lived your life your way. I appreciate n will miss your friendship especially U calling me Fernand/Ferg.
February 16, 2021
My sincere condolences to the family, l am praying the Lord will comfort you during this time.
Bonnie Morant
February 16, 2021
My condolences to the Glover Family, from the Williams’s family. We go along way back as neighbors and Green Street gang. Buddy always had a tune that he was humming. Rest well on a job well done. Tell Darryl we all said hi. Fly high Buddy, fly high……….🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽❤️ From Eli, Teddy, Gregg Williams……
February 16, 2021
I had Buddy as a football coach with the Elks Football League many years ago. He taught me many principles that helped me through life (discipline, teamwork, loyalty); just to name a few. Given the fact that we both grow up on Green Street was a bonus too. He will truly be missed! Rest well, Leon! Chuck Taylor’s Forever!
Will Harris, Jr
February 16, 2021
Buddy was truly an exceptional individual in so many ways and will always be remembered as a kind, inspiring, caring, honest, leader. Gone way too soon, he will be missed dearly, but will live forever in the hearts and minds of the many people whose lives he touched. My Deepest Condolences and prayers to his Family and community. It was an honor to know him. May he rest in Peace.
Pat (Bailey) Thompson
February 16, 2021
I had him as a principal at Edward Hand Jr school in the later 80’s he was a great person I was in his office all the time cause of a bully that I had and he help me though it and made things better again. He will be Highly missed by all who knew him and loved him. Fly high Leon ( Buddy) and May you rest in peace you where the best Around.
Tammy Metz
February 15, 2021
Truly Buddy is “Gone too Soon.” He was a great gy and inspiring leader. I was at Gettysburg College (G-burg) during his last two years there. He helped so many of us and got me involved with the community (Third Ward), and I have remained in contact with many of the then children we tutored and mentored. I have so many fond memories of Buddy; I even had the pleasure of meeting his lovely wife at an event at the college several years ago. Just recently, he was on a Zoom memorial meeting for another African American G-burg student who was departed this life “too soon.” He spoke so eloquently (as he always did) and looked so well. It really took me by surprise to hear of his sudden passing. Not just his wife and family, but Lancaster, G-burg, PA, and the world has lost a “Wonderful One.” May he Rest In Peace, and the Glover Family be comforted and blessed.
Wendelin (Wendy) Whitfield
February 15, 2021
Gracias por lo que hiciste por nuestra comunidad Gracias por ser un caballero con nuestra comunidad Thank you for what you did for my community Thank you for the Being a gentleman with my community we will miss you
Ivan Acosta Velez
February 15, 2021
My Dear Friend Charlotte & Family,
Buddy will always be remembered for his wonderful heart. Without a doubt he is sitting at the righthandside of God. Please do not hesitate to reach out; just around the corner.
Much Love to All, Gail, Jon & Damien Henry & Donie Carter.
February 15, 2021
I majored in history at Gettysburg College because of this man with the big grin. Buddy (’71) was an inspiring pioneer for the black students who had a chance to listen and learn from him. I had not seen Buddy since he graduated from Gettysburg. I was blessed to see him one more time a few weeks ago at the homegoing celebration (via Zoom) of a fellow classmate (Ethel Locks ’74) from Gettysburg. There is a song that says: “If I can help somebody, as I travel along…No, my living shall not be in vain”. I pray that Buddy’s family take comfort knowing he indeed made a difference!!! God Bless!
Darrell Grymes (’74)
February 15, 2021
Smokey, We are so sorry to hear of your loss.
Linda and William
February 15, 2021
As a former educator in the SDoL and neighbor, I witnessed Buddy’s positive impact on students, teachers and the community. He was an authentic man whose concern was so evidenced through his positive impact on so many, especially on the students he loved. His smile, gentle demeanor and positiveness were welcomed by those who knew him and worked with him. He left this world way too early but will always be remembered and cherished as a man who loved and cared for his community. My sincere condolences to Charlotte and his family at this difficult time.
Linda Watson
February 15, 2021
He was a great man.
Randy
February 15, 2021
A beautiful Man if integrity has left us he will be sorly missed
Marzella C Underwood