Ernest Hugh Pemberton

Ernest "Hugh" Pemberton, a respected leader in the glass manufacturing industry and devoted family man, died peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Marion, Indiana on November 28, 1943, he was the son of Ernest Hiram and Beatrice Ann Pemberton.

Mr. Pemberton earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University in 1966, later undertaking postgraduate studies at the University of Toledo in 1970-71, and completing an MBA from Bowling Green State University in 1982. His professional career spanned nearly three decades with Owens-Illinois, where he held roles including Finish Product Manager for the Glass Container Division in Toledo, and Manager of Applied Process Research. In 1984 he joined Emhart Glass Machinery Group, serving first as President of its Powers Manufacturing Division in Elmira, New York, and from 1989 as President of North America and South America operations. He also served on the board of Capabilities, Inc., in Elmira.

Hugh was known among his colleagues for his technical expertise, his steady leadership, and his commitment to innovation in production and process engineering. His teams advanced the industry and contributed to numerous patents in the field of glass manufacturing.

He was an active member of several professional and civic organizations, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers; the Purdue University and Bowling Green State University Alumni Associations; the Masons; Tau Beta Pi; and Pi Tau Sigma. Outside of work, he enjoyed golf and water skiing.

Hugh married Judith Kay Cox on August 31, 1963. Though they later separated in 1990, their partnership produced two sons, Anthony Pemberton and Shawn Pemberton, who survive him. Judith preceded him in death in 2022.

On December 5, 1992, he married Joyce Elaine Siegel, who became Joyce Pemberton. They met on a local golf course. She survives him, along with her daughters from a previous marriage, Sarah Papetti and Susan Graves.

Shortly after their marriage, Hugh and Joyce left their respective industries Glass and Real-estate to found the company Tempo Staffing in Hartford Connecticut where they paired individuals seeking day or short term employment with local business; averaging 120 placements per day. Together, they built the business from the ground up, personally overseeing daily operations and supplying workforce solutions for major clients.

In retirement, they divided their time between homes in Annapolis, Maryland, and Winter Haven, Florida, where they built deep and lasting friendships in their communities and as members of the Cypresswood Golf & Country Club in Winter Haven and the Heritage Harbor Country Club in Annapolis. Hugh was committed to enhancing the communities where he lived and played; serving on the board of the Cypresswood's HOA, as well as the Board of Directors for the Suffield Country Club. During their years in Suffield, CT Hugh was a member of the Suffield Country Club and played an instrumental role in a variety of renovation projects.

Hugh was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Haines City FL where he participated in church-groups and activities; and there he built enduring bonds within his church family.

Hugh will be dearly missed by his immediate family and the many friends he made throughout his life. He will be remembered for his stoic fight through years of serious health challenges, his steady presence, intellectual curiosity, love of family, sense of humor, and unwavering integrity.

A funeral service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Haines City, FL on Saturday, October 11th at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to First Presbyterian Church of Haines, City FL or to a charity of your choosing.