Memorial Service
Obituary of Donald Gallagher
It is with heavy hearts that we share that Donald Gallagher, 74, passed away at home on July 12th, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, after losing his courageous battle against cancer. Donald was born to Mary Hanratty and William Gallagher on July 20th, 1948 in the Bronx. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Sarah Hoctor Gallagher, twin children, Shane Gallagher and Brigid Gallagher Helbling, three sisters, Regina Marengo, Mary Beth O’Neill, and Kathleen Pries, his niece, Mary Liz O’Neill, his nephew, William Marengo, and his two granddaughters, Charlotte and Chloe Gallagher Helbling.
Donald attended St. Raymond’s High School for Boys in the Bronx and excelled as a dual-sport athlete and scholar. He received a track scholarship to Manhattan College, where he received both his bachelor and master’s degrees in history. He served his Country in an Army’s Infantry unit and after his discharge, he returned to his high school as an educator and varsity track coach for 17 years. His influence as a runner, coach and teacher earned him an induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame and the position of Social Studies Department Chair. During this time, he also fulfilled his dream of owning a restaurant and opened Splinters in the Bronx. This started his life-long passion for catering and expressing himself through food and sharing it with others. He ended his professional career as an administrator and educator for 20 years at Iona Grammar School, where he also started and coached the cross-country team. He is remembered for his contagious love of history and salient mentorship to his students and faculty.
Donald could also be described as a cross word puzzle connoisseur, trivia enthusiast, old-school movie buff, and an encyclopedia of knowledge. He also had an uncanny ability to never forget a face. Donald also enjoyed playing golf and tennis, especially at his home at the Greenbrier in West Virginia, as well as cooking for and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, granddaddy, and friend.
A service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday July 29th, 2023 at 2 PM at Saints John and Paul Church in Larchmont, NY.
To see the Mass live streemed go to https://events.locallive.tv/worship/sts-john-paul-parish-ny
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name can be made to the following charities: Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital inc., Blythedale Children’s Hospital.