Herbert H. Simmons, 81, of Gowanda passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at his home. He was born on March 6, 1944 in Gowanda, the son of the late Howard and Winifred (Oyach) Simmons.
On January 23, 1971, he married the former Esther Hamilton, who predeceased him on September 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 Chaplin 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; four grandchildren, Micah, Kylie, Noah and Alexander; two sisters, Virginia "Ginny" (Marvin) Breon of Corning and Penny (Dick) Bridges of Gowanda; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Claude Simmons.
Friends may call on Friday, February 27 from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM at the Mentley Funeral Home Inc., 105 East Main Street in Gowanda, where funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM 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.
