Perley F. Simmons

Perley F. Simmons, 95, of Emporium, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Friday night, July 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on October 15, 1930, in Draper, PA, he was the son of the late Perley L. and Nora Gitchell Simmons. On June 23, 1956, he married the love of his life, Pauline Ogden, who survives. Together they shared a remarkable marriage of seventy years, recently celebrating that milestone surrounded by their loving family.

Perley was a 1948 graduate of Wellsboro High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Following his military service, he attended Penn State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.

He began his engineering career at Sylvania in Emporium, where his ingenuity and dedication led to his receiving a patent for improvements in the electric tube manufacturing process. After Sylvania closed, he continued working at Lewis and Hockenberry Lumber Mill until his retirement.

While Perley took great pride in his work and accomplishments, his greatest treasures were his faith and his family. A man of unwavering Christian faith, he openly shared his love for his Lord and Savior with everyone he met. He was never hesitant to speak of God’s goodness and, on occasion, was honored to share His Word from the pulpit. His life was a quiet testimony of humility, kindness, integrity, and trust in the Lord.

Perley enjoyed hunting and fishing and appreciated the beauty of God’s creation. More than anything, however, he cherished every moment spent with his family. Whether gathered around the dinner table, celebrating holidays, or simply enjoying everyday moments, his greatest happiness came from being with those he loved. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and he delighted in encouraging them through his example of faith, love, and perseverance.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Pauline Simmons of Emporium; five daughters, Cindy L. Simmons of Emporium, Coleen Rother (John) of Manassas, Virginia, Janice Smith of Emporium, Melissa Clark (Gary) of Emporium, and Jill Simmons of Emporium; ten grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and one brother, Lloyd Simmons (Connie) of Wellsboro.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers and two sisters.

Perley’s family will forever remember him as a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, faithful servant of God, and a gentle man whose life reflected the values he held dear. His legacy of faith, love, hard work, and compassion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

There will be no visitation. Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.