Herbert H. Simmons

GOWANDA — Herbert H. Simmons, 81, of Gowanda, passed away Thursday (Feb. 19, 2026) at his home.

He was born March 6, 1944, in Gowanda, the son of the late Howard and Winifred Oyach Simmons. On Jan. 23, 1971, he married the former Esther Hamilton, who predeceased him Sept. 7, 2019.

Mr. Simmons was employed at the Gowanda Psychiatric Center as a therapy aide for over 30 years until his retirement.

He was a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, having served in the 36th Evac Hospital.

He was an active member of and past chaplain of the Gowanda VFW Post 5007 and an active member of the Gowanda American Legion Post 409. He also helped with the reunions and trips to Washington DC for the 36th Evac Hospital veterans.

He was an avid outdoorsman but especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Mr. Simmons is survived by a son, Paul (Suzanna) Simmons of Silver Creek; two daughters, Kristy (Sam) Lauer of Perrysburg and Kathi (James) Kuebler of Lackawanna; and four grandchildren, Micah, Kylie, Noah and Alexander. Also surviving are two sisters, Virginia “Ginny” (Marvin) Breon of Corning and Penny (Dick) Bridges of Gowanda; and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by a brother, Claude Simmons.

Friends may call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday (Feb. 27, 2026) at the Mentley Funeral Home Inc., 105 E. Main St. in Gowanda. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. from the funeral home. Burial with military honors will be in Collins Center Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Gowanda VFW Post 5007 or Gowanda American Legion Post 409.