Gary James Durr

Gary James Durr, 82, of Cumberland, Maryland entered his eternal home with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. He was born on March 4, 1942 in Cumberland, Maryland. He was the son of the late James and Elizabeth (Blaker) Durr. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law: Tom Crogan.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Treva Sharon Durr. He is also survived by his children Beth Wyand (husband David) and Brian Durr; his grandchildren, Alex Salmon, Nathan Wyand (wife Claira), Abigail Swaving (husband Cody), Katherine Whitley (husband Brent), and Breyanna Mahoney Durr; and great grandchildren, Corinne Wyand and Elliot Swaving; his siblings: Karen Crogan; and John Durr and wife Joan.
Gary was a 1960 graduate of Allegany High School. He earned an undergraduate degree from Frostburg State University, with a major in History and Education, and a master's degree in education (guidance and counseling) also from Frostburg State University.
Gary started his career as a high school history teacher, first in the Baltimore area, and then in Cumberland. He also served as a high school guidance counselor at Allegany High School.
In 1977, Gary became Associate Professor of Mental Health at Allegany College of Maryland. In this role, he trained mental health counselors and worked closely with schools, human service agencies, and mental health centers in the placement of interns. He served as Chairperson of the Division of Human Resources, including psychology, mental health, sociology, criminal justice, and education.
Beginning in 1998, he served as Dean of Continuing Education for Allegany College of Maryland, and later as Vice-President of Continuing Education and Community Services. He retired from that position in July 2008.
After retirement, Gary returned to Allegany College of Maryland as the interim president from July 2010 through March 2011 at the request of the Board of Directors while a search for a new president was conducted
During the past twenty-five years, Gary has been the consultant responsible for development and delivery of the Peer Helper Training Program in the Allegany County school system in Western Maryland.
In his retirement years, Gary continued to be active as an educational training consultant. He designed and conducted extensive workshops and seminars for community organizations, businesses, human service agencies, educators, hospitals, community colleges, health departments, federal and state corrections, and numerous professional groups. He also served as an Adjunct Faculty member in the Education Professions Graduate Department at Frostburg State University.
Gary enjoyed beautifying his yard, reading and teaching, traveling and spending time with his wife, family and friends, including two great grandchildren born this last year. He was the Director of Youth for Christ in Cumberland for several years in the late 60's and served faithfully throughout the years at Cornerstone Baptist Church teaching Sunday School.
Gary had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ his Savior, which influenced all he did professionally and privately. He was a wise counselor, a good listener, a generous and caring friend, and an example of a faithful husband, father and grandfather.
Friends will be received at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 930 Frederick Street, Cumberland, MD 21502, on Tuesday June 11, 2024 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm, with a funeral beginning at 12:00 pm with Pastors Matt Eichhorn and Dave Hattenfield officiating. Interment will be in Hillcrest Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Christian Community Center, https://www.thechristiancommunitycenter.com/donate,
1412 Hollins Street, Baltimore, MD 21223, or Fellowship of Christian Athletes https://alleganycofca.org/who-we-are, 129 Braddock Hts, Frostburg, MD 21532.