John H. Schuster Jr.

John H Schuster Jr. (Jack), 81, formerly of Middletown, NJ, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026 at his residence in Bluffton, South Carolina. Born on December 3, 1944 in Newark, NJ, Jack was raised in Middletown, NJ, where he graduated from Middletown High School in 1964. Upon graduation from high school Jack enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, and underwent basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina. In March of 1966, Jack volunteered for service in Vietnam where he served a thirteen-month tour. Jack was the recipient of a Bronze Star with “V” Device for Valor, in addition to The National Defense Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal, The Vietnam Campaign Medal, and The Good Conduct Medal. 

In February of 1968 Jack entered the State Police Academy at West Trenton, where he graduated on May 17, 1968, as a member of the 75th Class. In January of 1974, while assigned to the Laurelton Barracks, Jack took part in the rescue of two Brick Township police officers that had been wounded by a gunman with a high powered rifle. Jack, a fellow trooper, and a Brick Township detective, maneuvered a troop car between a severely wounded officer and the gunman. While providing cover for the officers, the troop car was struck several times with rounds fired by the gunman. The officer received first aid and was transported to a nearby hospital, saving his life. Jack received the Meritorious Service Award for his actions during the incident.

Upon retiring from the State Police in June of 1988, Jack started a private investigation company where he worked until June of 2017, and subsequently retired to Bluffton, South Carolina. Jack’s personal interests were fast cars and fast boats, having many of both and loving every minute of those experiences. He also loved and was very proud of his service in the Marine Corps and the State Police. Jack is survived by his loving wife Briggie and several other members of his extended family.