Pauline M. (Pekala) "Polly" Shuchart

New Freedom

Pauline M. (Pekala) "Polly" Shuchart, 91, passed away April 7, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Henry R. Shuchart.

Born in Clymer, PA, on September 25, 1934, Polly was the daughter of the late Paul P. and Emma D. (Klamar) Pekala. She graduated from Mt. Aloysius Academy and went on to earn her B.S. degree from Lock Haven State Teachers College.

A dedicated educator, Polly retired after teaching for 26 years in the Southern York County School District. She also previously taught in Clearfield, Hastings, and Spring Grove, PA.

Active in her community, she served as Treasurer for New Freedom Borough, as a founding member of the Rose Fire Co., as a member of St. John‘s Jewels, and as an officer with the New Freedom Woman’s Club. She was a member of the National Bowling League, AARP, New Freedom Ambulance, York Co. Teachers Association, and various senior centers in York County.

She leaves a legacy of 6 children: Mark (Kathy), Karla (Wayne), Michelle (Bruce), Chris (Christine), Kevin (Joy), and Matt (Brian). She is also survived by her siblings, Emma Jean and Kathleen. She was a grandmother to 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother, Paul, Jr., and her parents Emma and Paul, Sr.

Following cremation, a visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Historic Church, 315 N. Constitution Ave., New Freedom, followed by a Prayer Service at 11:00 AM with Rev. Philip Burger officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care, New Freedom, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the South-Central Senior Center in New Freedom at https://www.scycseniorcenter.org.