Simon P. Hadley, affectionately known to many as SAM, was born in Bridgeton, New Jersey on August 28, 1940 to the late Charles Hadley and Eloise Watts.

Simon graduated from Bridgeton High School and played many sports such as Football and Basketball during his years there. While in high school, Simon met the love of his life, Dorothy M. Copeland. The couple married in 1960 and to this blessed union five children were born (four continuing to survive into adulthood).

To support his young family, Simon received his degree in Electrical Engineering and worked as a journeyman electrician at the Owens Illinois Glass Company located in Bridgeton.

He later tested his entrepreneurial spirit by venturing out to be a vacuum cleaner salesman, used car salesman and a part owner of a Bar-B-Q shack and store with his close friend the late James "Big Jim" Edwards. Ultimately, he began work at the Edwards and Son Funeral Home.

He loved everything about life to include God, family and his Community. He was a man of giving to all people in need. He didn't care if you were rich or poor, young or old, suffering with additions or afflictions; he loved all people and gave of his time and means to all who needed him. Included in his family was his community family who he loved and cared about.

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge (Prince Hall), The Moorish Science Temple and President of the B.A.A.U. (Bridgeton African American Union) which provided an Annual holiday party for kids. He touched so many lives with his time and all that he gave.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his son Randall (Angela) Hadley of Bridgeton, NJ and daughters Deborah (Tony) Hadley-Ingram, Wendy (Reginald Sr.) Derrickson and Tammy M.D. (Carlos Sr, M.D.) Ince. He also leaves 17 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.