Obituaries

Patricia (Heffers) Perna, age 64, of Taylor, passed away Thursday evening at Allied Hospice, Scranton. She is survived by her beloved husband and best friend, Eugene (Gene) Perna. The couple celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on October 13th. She is also survived by her son, Will Perna and longtime girlfriend, Jessy Hare, of Pittston; her sister, Martha Lee; and her sister-in-law, Regina Heffers. Her brother, William Heffers, also preceded her in death.
Born in Moosic on May 10, 1955, and daughter of the late William and Evelyn (Walsh) Heffers.
For 35 years, Patricia served as a dedicated educator while employed by the Scranton School District. She genuinely cared for her students, developing longtime bonds and friendships well beyond their time in the classroom. Beyond retirement, she continued to educate as a tutor. Leaving her legacy behind with the countless amount of students she touched the lives of, she will forever be missed.
She possessed an amazing sense of humor, certainly never to be forgotten. Above all else came her family, especially time spent with her husband and son. Camping long-remained her favorite pastime. She and Gene had spent time camping at countless locations but her favorite had always been at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire in Manheim.
Her family would like to acknowledge and thank Dr. Henry Yeager, MD, Dr. Christopher Metzger and his nurse Kathleen Saltry along with the entire staff of Allied Hospice, for the collective compassion and care provided throughout Patricia’s illness.
A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Friday at 10:00AM at St. Patrick’s Church, 1403 Jackson Street in West Scranton, to be celebrated by Rev. Richard Fox, Pastor. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday from 9:00AM until Mass. Interment, private.
Memorial contributions may be made in Patricia’s name to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter c/o 967 Griffin Pond Rd, South Abington Township, PA 18411.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge.