Fern Plumley, 93 of Cowanesque, PA passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

Fern was born April 14, 1930 in Brookfield Township Pa. She was the daughter of the late Iva (Cleveland) Vanzile and was adopted at an early age by her aunt, the late Margaret VanZile. 

 She was preceded in death in September 2000 by her husband of 51 years, Francis Plumley, the love of her life. 

She remained mentally sharp, generous in spirit and deed, appreciative of visits with her friends, family and was a faithful member of The Cowanesque United Methodist Church for 70 plus years. She held many positions in the church. 

She was a wonderful caring mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Fern was extremely close with her family. Her life was happy and joyful. Her positive uplifting approach to life was an inspiration to all that knew her. Fern always had an open door for family and friends.

Fern enjoyed many activities. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, hiking, traveling, sewing, knitting, crocheting, snowmobiling, camping, the great outdoors and she made an amazing 70 afghans to share.

She was a lifetime member of The Cowanesque Rod & Gun Club. She was inducted into the Voter Hall of Fame (50 years).

Fern was a 1947 graduate of Westfield High School. She taught Sunday School in the United Methodist Church and led the United Methodist Church Women’s Group for many years.

Fern worked at Clark’s Drug Store, Galeton Production, Northern Tioga School District and was co-owner and Manager of the VanZile Home for the Aged until her retirement. Her sweet, thoughtful and compassionate care was known throughout the area.

She was proud of the Cowanesque Valley School District, Church and her community for which she was active and involved.

Surviving is her daughter Joan Borden (husband Jim) of Springville, PA, son Jay Plumley (wife Lori) of Enola, PA, daughter Kathy Sweet of Cowanesque PA, 6 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild plus many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved 3 brothers; Charles, Dwayne, Elwood, and 4 sisters; Evelyn, Marjorie, Margaret, and Mona.  

Viewing will be held at Cowanesque United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 27th from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral at 11:00 am with Reverend L. Fitzgerald Reist, II officiating. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery, in Austinburg PA.

The family is thankful for the care Fern got from the staff at Broad Acres and Hospice Care as well as the support and loving thoughts, visits and prayers of friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to her church – Cowanesque United Methodist Church, 2903 Route 49, Westfield, PA 16950. Arrangements are in the care of Kenyon Funeral Home, Inc. www.kenyonfuneralhome.com