Is it too late to get a high school diploma if I would have graduated in 1983 but was short a credit or two? Can I obtain records to see which class(es) to take and either take them online or at community college to get a high school diploma or do I have to go the GED route?

In New York,being a few credits short makes no difference,you would have to get a GED.
It could vary by state .Call your county dept.of education.