George “Ted” Sowers

 

George “Ted” Sowers, 68, of Emporium, Pennsylvania, passed away at Penn Highlands Elk, St. Marys, Pennsylvania, on Sunday afternoon, December 28, 2025 and was surrounded by his family.

He was born May 29, 1957, in Sellersville, Pennsylvania, a son of Diane Sowers of Emporium and the late George C. Sowers, and birth mother Barbara Christman. On December 18, 1976, at Rich Valley Wesleyan Church in Emporium, Ted married the love of his life, Penny Barker, who survives.

Ted was committed to serving his community, beginning at a young age when he became a firefighter at just 16 years old. He went on to serve his community in many capacities over the years, including as a humane officer, where his deep compassion for and advocacy on behalf of animals were evident. Ted also served as an animal control officer and ordinance enforcement officer. He was a proud member of the Emporium Rotary Club and a retired president of the Cameron County SPCA. In addition, he served as chairman of the GOP and remained actively involved in numerous local boards and committees.

Known for his kindness, dedication, and genuine love of service, Ted consistently gave his time and energy to making a difference in the lives of others. Outside of his community involvement, he found joy in thrifting with his wife and children, taking Jeep rides, collecting memorabilia, hunting and fishing, socializing with friends, attending the annual trip to Watkins Glen for the NASCAR race, and always staying busy working on something. Above all else, Ted cherished time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, who were truly his greatest happiness.

In addition to his mother and his wife, Penny, he is survived by three children: Bradley Sowers (Kristy) of DuBois; Mandy Marconi (DJ) of St. Marys; and Jonathan Sowers of Emporium. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Mackenzie, Brenden, Breanna (Anthony), Gideon, Trevor, Emma, and Gabriel.

Also surviving are his siblings: Joy McKimm (Dennis) of Emporium; Karen LaBrozzi (Keith) of Lufkin, Texas; Peggy Sowers of Emporium; Andi Sowers of Emporium; Steve Sowers (Danielle) of Howard; George Christman of New Holland, and several nieces and nephews.

Ted was preceded in death by his father, George C. Sowers, his birth mother, Barbara Christman, and nephew Keith LaBrozzi JR.

There will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held at the Barnett Funeral Home, 207 E. Fourth Street, Emporium, Pennsylvania, on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 12:00 PM, with Rev. Rock Pifer officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Geisinger’s Live Like Brent Foundation for blood cancers by contacting Brenda Apple 570-214-6372.

Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net

BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.