Herbert Joseph Plummer

Herbert Joseph Plummer, 91, of Lincoln, Del., passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025.

Born in Washington, D.C., Joe was the son of the late Herbert C. and Fannye Jo (Kopecky) Plummer. A man of immense intellect, wit and generosity, Joe led a life devoted to language, storytelling and service — both to his country and to the countless students and audiences whose lives he touched.

A retired teacher and actor, Joe served as Associate Professor in the Mass Communications Department at King's College in Wilkes-Barre. He earned his doctorate in Rhetoric and Linguistics from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and taught writing at the University of Delaware's Parallel Program, as well as courses on Charles Dickens at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Lewes. His love of learning and mentorship extended well beyond the classroom — he volunteered as a mentor at Lulu Ross Elementary School in Milford and served as a lector at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church.

Joe began his career in journalism, working as a reporter and assistant Sunday editor at the Times Herald-Record in Middletown, N.Y., and later as a copy editor at The Record in Hackensack, N.J. His command of language, sharp eye for detail, and deep sense of narrative shaped both his professional and personal life.

He also proudly served in the U.S. Army, first at Fort Jackson, S.C., and later in Frankfurt, Germany, where he was the classical music director for the American Forces Network. Perhaps most memorably, Joe was beloved for his extraordinary one-man performances of Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol," which he presented throughout Northeast Pennsylvania, Delaware, and beyond. His portrayal of Dickens was so revered that in 2001, he and his son, Joseph Plummer, brought the production to the Blue Heron Theatre off-Broadway in New York City, a highlight of a lifetime.

In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his sister, Judith Frances Plummer, who passed away two days earlier.

Above all, Joe was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Terry, of Lincoln; and eight children who brought him endless pride and joy: Cecilia Galante, Josie Jesser, Lionel Plummer, Joseph Plummer, Therese Plummer, Margaret Mary Green, Dr. Samuel Plummer and Herbert Plummer. He also leaves behind eleven cherished grandchildren, each a testament to his legacy of love, wisdom and quiet strength.

Joe Plummer will be remembered for his deep humanity, his lifelong devotion to language and literature, and his love of performance art. He was a man who listened deeply and loved generously—quietly shaping the hearts and minds of those around him. His legacy lives on not only in his work, but in the countless students, colleagues, friends and family members who were fortunate enough to be part of his story.

Celebration of the lives of Joe and Judy Plummer takes place at the Church of Saint Nicholas - Saint Mary, 226 South Washington Street in Wilkes-Barre on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Visitation begins at 10 AM and is followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 AM.

Share memories and condolences with Joe's family at mjmclaughlin.com