Jill Francine Shuger

Jill Shuger, of Pikesville, Maryland, passed away on Thursday, December 25th, 2025, at the age of 83. She is survived by her beloved sister, M. Jacqueline Shuger. She was predeceased by her dear parents, Joyce and Leroy Shuger.

Jill Shuger lived a life defined by curiosity, intellect, and a deep commitment to improving the health of others. A nationally respected genetics consultant, Jill devoted her career to the development and administration of newborn screening and genetic services, helping shape programs that impacted countless families across the country. Her work encompassed marketing, grant writing, data and software technology, laboratory procedures, and follow-up services, with a particular focus on metabolic, hearing, and neonatal screening programs for state health departments.

Jill was especially knowledgeable and passionate about Huntington disease, connective tissue disorders, and dwarfism. Her expertise and collaborative spirit allowed her to work closely with hospitals, scientists, local and state agencies, universities, and foundations to implement metabolic and genetic screening programs on a national level. Through these efforts, she helped advance early detection and care for some of the most vulnerable populations.

Her leadership extended well beyond her day-to-day work. Jill served on several professional boards and committees relating to genetics and public health, including the American College of Medical Genetics as an associate member beginning in 2000, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Human Genetics Network as a board member from 2000 onward, and the American Society of Human Genetics, of which she was a member since 1973. She was also involved with the National Society of Genetic Counselors from 1999 to 2001 and served on the American Public Health Association’s Genetic Services Committee from 1985 to 1991. In addition, Jill held appointments on The Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Metabolic Disorders from 1983 to 2001, the D.C. Newborn Screening HIV Infection Task Force from 1991 to 1995, and the D.C. Maternal and Child Health Services Advisory Board from 1986 to 1992.

Jill’s academic path reflected her wide-ranging interests and dedication to learning. She earned a Master of Science in Health Services Administration from The Johns Hopkins School of Public Health in 1982. She completed her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Arizona, where she majored in Art History and minored in English, after earlier studies at Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia. She was also a proud graduate of The Park School, an experience she cherished throughout her life.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jill was engaging, delightful, and truly full of life. She loved her time at Park School and fondly remembered summers spent at Camp Woodland in Maine, where she excelled in activities and sports. Jill was a lot of fun and brought joy wherever she went. She enjoyed tennis, swimming, travel of any kind, and had a deep appreciation for art, theater, and ballet. Trips to New York City to see Broadway shows were among her favorite experiences. Jill also valued the many personal connections she formed through her work in genetics, enjoying the relationships and conversations that grew from her professional world.

Jill Shuger will be remembered not only for her extraordinary contributions to public health and genetics, but for her warmth, enthusiasm, and the vibrant way she embraced life.

Services are private. Please omit flowers. Contributions in her memory may be sent to Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601. The family will be receiving guests at the family residence on Monday, January 5th from 3:00-5:00 PM. Please call Sol Levinson's for the family's address.