In Loving Memory of Sidney Hagert Gommel

May 23, 1940 – October 5, 2026

Sidney Hagert Gommel, a lifelong lover of the English language, passed away on October 5, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born on May 23, 1940, Sidney grew up in Center City Philadelphia, near Rittenhouse Square, an area rich in history, culture, and character. Her early years in the city helped shape the life of a woman who would dedicate herself to the power of language, learning, and education.

Sidney graduated from St. Mary's Hall—now Doane Academy—as a member of the Class of 1957. She went on to earn her bachelor's degree from Temple University and her master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania, building a strong academic foundation for a career devoted to teaching and the written word.

Throughout her professional life, Sidney served as an English professor, sharing her knowledge and appreciation of literature and language with her students. She also worked as an online English tutor, continuing to help others learn and grow through education. Her commitment to teaching reflected the enduring value she placed on knowledge and the ability of words to connect, inspire, and open doors.

In addition to her love of education and the English language, Sidney enjoyed handicapping horse races, a passion that brought excitement and enjoyment to her life. She shared this interest with a community of fellow horse racing enthusiasts and friends who appreciated the challenge and camaraderie of the sport. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by her horse-loving friends, who shared in her enthusiasm for the races.

Sidney is survived by her beloved husband, John Gommel; her children from a previous marriage, Charles McNamara, Catherine Cuneo, and Elizabeth McNamara and her extended family, including her sisters-in-law, Cheryl Gommel and Linda Jarrett, and her brother-in-law, Ed Jarrett. Her son Benjamin Mcnamara preceded her in death;

Sidney's life was marked by her dedication to education, her love of learning, and the many interests and relationships that enriched her life. She leaves behind family, students, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by her presence, her work, and her passions.

She will be remembered with love and gratitude. Her memory will live on in the lives she touched, the knowledge she shared, the friendships she treasured, and the many memories held dear by those who knew and loved her.

Memorial Donations

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing retired Thoroughbred racehorses with opportunities for safe and caring lives after racing. This would be a meaningful way to honor Sidney's love of horse racing.

• Professional arrangements are entrusted to:

• Gary Panoch Funeral Home, 6140 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL 33487, 561-997-8580

• www.gpanochfunerals.com

• easyonlinecremations.com

May she rest in peace and be remembered always.