May 21, 2021

Jerry W. Seaman, of Claysville, was called home by his Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. He passed away peacefully, Sunday, May 16, 2021, at home, with his wife by his side. He was born March 7, 1944, in Washington.

Jerry was a son of the late Wilbert and Catherine Scott Seaman. He was the beloved husband of 57 years to his high school sweetheart, Linda Kay Hodgens, who survives.

He was a 1963 graduate of McGuffey High School and graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor of science degree and a master of education degree from West Chester University. Upon graduation from Penn State, Jerry took a teaching and coaching job at Stevens Tech in Lancaster.

He is survived by his son, Pastor Douglas (Pam) Seaman of Cumberland, Md.; two daughters, Jeri (John) Zwicker of Claysville and Samantha (JD) Bodine of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and seven grandchildren, Kyle, Kacy, Faith, Paige, Luke, Hannah and Camryn.

Jerry was a member of Champion Christian Center and looked forward to attending services each week. His life was dramatically changed by a paralyzing fall in 2010, but he was just as motivated and determined as he always had been.

James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Jerry always had a positive attitude and appreciated every day he was blessed with. The very first thing he did each day was to acknowledge his Creator and declare, “This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.”

He had a special gift of brightening the life of just about everybody he met. He was quick-witted, well known for his easy smile and had a knack for making people comfortable. He loved watching his grandchildren grow up and loved being a “handyman” to all.

He was well known for his athletic accomplishments, becoming McGuffey’s first wrestling state champion on his way to a full scholarship at Penn State. He also played semi-pro football and then took a position as Stephen Tech’s head wrestling coach and assistant football coach. All of this led to stints as a public school teacher and wrestling coach.

He and Linda were always involved in business having owned Interstate Mobile Village for many years, then a golf driving range, a camper and truck cap sales, and finally The Barn Restaurant and The Barn Game Room.

He enjoyed traveling, undertaking “suitcase camping” on several trips. He continued to train successful wrestlers throughout his life, even after his accident. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandkids.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, May 22, at the Claysville Cemetery. Casual attire (Penn State, especially wrestling, encouraged!) is welcome. This will be followed by a picnic at the home of his daughter, Jeri, at 2 p.m.

Arrangements are entrusted to Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 219 Main Street, Claysville, PA 15323. 724-663-7373 www.youngfhinc.com