Bennett Richard Gallina

It is with deep sadness and grief that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, Poppy, brother and uncle Bennett Richard Gallina, 70, of Queens, New York. Ben passed away on April 20th, 2025, in the comfort of his home in Naples, Florida.
Born on June 28th, 1954 to Benjamin and Eve Gallina (Scavone), Ben grew up in Maspeth, Queens, playing stickball in a close-knit Italian neighborhood. He graduated from St. Johns Prep in Queens. His humble beginnings landed him his first real job working in a local deli, where he learned the value of hard work and attention to detail. After graduating from Queens College in 1977 with a degree in accounting, Ben joined Avon Products as a Junior Accountant at their New York headquarters. Bens core values of trust, respect, belief, humility, and integrity quickly earned him a reputation as a leader, who lived those ideals every day in his business and personal life. Ben rose swiftly through the ranks, becoming the youngest Director in the Finance Department, and lastly, serving as a Senior Vice President. Ben led with a simple but powerful guiding principal: "know your numbers, love your people, no surprises".
After working more than 30 years, with millions of miles traveled, living in Montreal, Hong Kong and London, Ben returned home to New York.
Upon retiring, he rekindled his passion for fishing, and he loved nothing more than spending the days on the water on eastern long island, catching and bringing home dinner. A lifelong sports lover, Ben was an avid Yankee and Giants fan, who proudly amassed an extensive sports memorabilia collection which he was so proud to show off to his many friends in Naples.
Ben was the most thoughtful, selfless, kind, and humble family man. Armed with a sharp sense of wit, Ben enjoyed teasing the people that he loved most. He was a loving husband, supportive father, caring brother and devoted grandfather. Ben always said that of all the titles hed had throughout his life, "Poppy" was his favorite.
Ben is survived by his loving wife, Kristine; sons Rich (Amanda), Drew (Emily), Grant, and Blair (Marie); brother Charlie (Nora); godson and nephew Rob (Joni); niece Lauren, grandchildren, Clare, Mark, Blake, Regan, Sloan and Hanes, as well as his sweet dog Bella.
He is predeceased by his parents and his first wife, Richs mother Liz.
Ben was cherished by many and loved by all, who were privileged enough to know him. Life will never be the same.
Information of a celebration of life will be forthcoming. In memory of Ben, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (link). To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Bennett, please visit our Tree Store.