UNITED STATES - We are saddened to report the passing of Buck Shuman, a titan who left an indelible mark on the Vidalia® onion industry.

Buck was the proprietor of Shuman Fertilizer and later marketed seed genetics to growers throughout the Vidalia industry. As noted in a release from the Vidalia Onion Committee (VOC), he pioneered the practice of blending fertilizers for his customers in the 1970s. At the time, this challenged conventional methods and paved the way for a new way for onions to be grown.

Customizing fertilizer blends based on the unique needs of each field led to a groundbreaking innovation, crucial in preserving the unmistakable sweet, mild flavor of Vidalia onions, renowned for their exceptional quality.

Beyond fertilizer blending, Buck lent his expertise to the industry as an onion farmer, a career that began in the early 1980s. He retired as a grower and then embarked on a new chapter in his life, joining D. Palmer Seed in 1996 as a Vidalia onion representative.

In this role, Buck collaborated with breeders globally. His contributions include the renowned 'Miss Megan' variety and the 'Sapelo' variety, which were considered cornerstones of the industry.

Buck’s passion for the Vidalia onion industry was an intrinsic part of his life. Over five decades of shaping the industry was a great gift to him, and a love that he passed on to his children, John Shuman and Mark Shuman, who are now President/Chief Executive Officer and Director of Operations respectively at Shuman Farms.

Buck Shuman's passion for the Vidalia onion industry was not merely a profession but an intrinsic way of life. His unwavering dedication and tireless efforts over five decades have played an instrumental role in shaping the industry and upholding the esteemed brand image of Vidalia sweet onions.

Several industry members added their thoughts regarding Buck Shuman’s impact on both themselves and the industry through the VOC.

Delbert Bland, Owner and President, Bland Farms®

“Mr. Buck was a true mentor to me. He had a way of encouraging you when things were not going well. He injected a positive attitude into our industry, and I don’t know anyone he didn’t encourage and wanted to see succeed in our business. He was a blessing to know.”

Cliff Riner, Vice President, G&R Farms

“Mr. Buck was a true legend in the industry; his reputation as the Southern Gentleman and his passion for Vidalia Onions was as evident as anyone I know. His work ethic and dedication to enhancing the Vidalia Sweet Onion lasted for multiple decades, and I am extremely thankful for Mr. Buck’s legacy; he set the example for us all to follow."

Alan Sikes, Owner, Sikes Farms

“He was always encouraging and wanted everyone to do good within our whole industry; our industry has lost its best and finest gentleman. Mr. Buck made you feel respected and valued, and he kept a smile and the humblest attitude.”

R.T Stanley, Retired Owner, Stanley Farms

“I’ve always enjoyed doing business with Mr. Buck. When he sold fertilizer, he helped our farm; when he sold seed, he was a pleasure to do business with. He was both a friend and doing business with him for multiple decades meant a lot to me. I truly enjoyed our relationship. Most importantly, he was an outstanding family man and raised a great crop of children and a family that is well respected.”

In a formal obituary, it was noted the family is honored by all expressions of sympathy, but suggest memorial contributions in Buck’s memory to be made to Paul Anderson Youth Home, 1603 McIntosh Street, Vidalia, GA, 30474. To read it in its entirety, click here.

We extend our condolences to all who knew, loved, and admired Buck Shuman.