Rosemary Shearer

Rosemary Shearer was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to William and Evelyn Kunkel. She was lovingly raised by Newton and Evelyn Hetrick alongside her three brothers, James, Frederick, and Newton, her only surviving brother.

She graduated from Milford Mill High School in Rockdale, Maryland, and went on to earn a B.A. in Christian Education and English from Catawba College in 1960. Rosemary shared her gifts as a teacher in South Carolina, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania. During college, she was honored with journalism awards, inducted into Sigma P Alpha and Kappa Tau Kappa, recognized by the Women's Athletic Association for field hockey, and sang with the college touring choir.

At Catawba, Rosemary met the love of her life and shared 60 wonderful years with her beloved soulmate. Her husband, Donald "Jake" Shearer, passed away in 2017 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Together, Rosemary and Don built a loving family and are survived by their three children: Doug, married to Carrie Epley Shearer of Royal Oak, Maryland; Donna, married to Richard Book of Lancaster; and Cathy, married to Thomas Byers of Dover, Pennsylvania. She also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Rosemary found joy in reading and playing cards. Among the memories she treasured most were family trips to the beach in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, and special mountain trips with her grandchildren.

Rosemary gave generously of her time and heart. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Chapter #407, and the Bainbridge Believers Relay for Life team. She also served as past president of the Elizabethtown Women's Club and was a member of the Elizabethtown Flower Club. At St. Luke Lutheran Church in Bainbridge, she faithfully served as a church council member, Sunday School teacher, and Bible study leader.

Rosemary devoted five years to teaching at the former state hospital for children with disabilities. During her final year there, four young men graduated for the first time, and three went on to college—an accomplishment that brought her great joy. After the state hospital school closed, she continued her work of caring for others at Masonic Village. She completed graduate coursework and became certified as an Activity Director by the National Association of Activity Professionals and as a certified assistant by the Pennsylvania Therapeutic Recreation Society.

Her home was open to many children as she tutored and mentored those with learning disabilities. In 2009, her compassion and dedication were recognized when she was named Caretaker of the Year by the American Cancer Society, North Western Area.

Heaven welcomes her, for she lived a life of deep faith, kindness, and service. Giving to others in gratitude for the blessings of her Heavenly Father was her calling, and she answered it with grace throughout her life.

A memorial service will be held on Friday May 22, 2026 at noon at John S. Sell Memorial Chapel, 1 Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. A time of visitation will be held from 11 am until the start of the service. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Boyer Funeral Home, Inc. 144 E. High St., Elizabethtown PA, 17022. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.Boyer-Elizabethtown.com.