Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Herbert G. Hemendinger, a longtime Babylon village resident, educator, coach and public servant who spent more than three decades leading the Town of Babylon’s Parks and Recreation Department, died Nov. 5 at Kanas Hospice Center in Westhampton Beach. He was 93.
Hemendinger devoted much of his life to serving young people and the Babylon community. He served as athletic director and physical education teacher at West Babylon High School, where he also coached basketball and football. He encouraged generations of students and athletes, emphasizing teamwork, personal growth and the importance of recognizing their potential.
His public service extended well beyond the school district, however. Hemendinger served as chairman of the Town of Babylon Republican Committee and spent more than 33 years as director of the town’s Parks and Recreation Department.
During his tenure, he helped oversee the parks, beaches and pools that became gathering places for generations of local families. He also worked for Off-Track Betting for more than 19 years.
“Herbie was a fixture in Babylon politics and a respected presence in the community,” said Babylon Town Councilman Anthony Manetta. “From the time I was just 19 years old, he consistently encouraged me to pursue public office.”
Manetta said Hemendinger was always willing to share his wisdom and offer valuable insight.
“But what stood out most was his unwavering positivity and encouragement,” Manetta said. “Every conversation with Herbie left you feeling supported and inspired. His genuine belief in others was one of his many special qualities, and he will be deeply missed.”
Joe Barone of Lindenhurst, the town Republican leader said Hemindinger set the standard of a family man and community leader.
“He was a genuine, nice guy who worked hard for his family, his community, the town and his party,” said Barone. He always said: “Work hard and be loyal.”
Earlier in life, Hemendinger served as a military policeman, beginning a lifetime of service that continued throughout his professional and community endeavors.
Raised in Lindenhurst, he maintained a lifelong connection to the community and was active in its Methodist Church. He also held fond memories of local landmarks, including the Blue Bell Diner.
Above all, family was the greatest part of his life, said his granddaughter, Stevie Luongo.
“My grandfather was there to celebrate every major milestone in my life,” she said. “Whether it was something as simple as watching me compete in the Babylon village swimming races or something as dramatic as walking me down the aisle, he was always there.”
“When I think of him my mind immediately goes to spending summers on the beach at his Oak Beach home,” said his granddaughter, Stephanie Brennan. “He had a heart of gold and we are all going to miss him more than words can say.
Hemendinger is survived by his daughter, Karen Allar of Mattituck, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, who died in 2001.
Family and friends are gathering Nov. 11 at Mangano Family Funeral Home in Deer Park. A funeral service is scheduled at the funeral home, followed by burial at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Pinelawn.
