Robert Gallagher

Robert “Bob” W. Gallagher, 83, of El Paso, TX, entered eternal rest on Sunday, December 28, 2025, after an extended illness. Bob will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and willingness to help others.

Bob was the oldest child of Troy and Alma Gallagher, born on April 9, 1942, in Beeville, TX. He attended A. C. Jones High School and worked in the oil field until he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1960. He served three tours during the Vietnam War, proudly served 21 years, and retired in 1981 as an E-8. Among the many medals and honors he received were three Bronze Stars and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry.

Bob married Melanie Appleton on October 9, 1981, in Anniston, AL, where he was assigned as an advisor to the U.S. Army Reserves. There he graduated from Gadsden Community College and earned an Associate’s Degree, magna cum laude.

After Bob retired, they moved to his hometown of Beeville, TX, during an economic downturn when many businesses closed their doors. He was the terminal manager for Central Freight Lines, the finance and insurance specialist for the Larry Duzke GMC Dodge Dealership and a ground support vehicle mechanic for naval aircraft for Raytheon at Chase Field Naval Air Station. In 1993, the closure of Chase Field prompted them to move to El Paso, TX, where he worked for H&R Block for 15 years as Tech Support for computers and telephone systems.

Bob was a member of Ascension Lutheran Church where his faith in Jesus grew as he faced many health challenges in later life. Members there lifted him and his wife in prayers for many years, and he was graciously ministered to by Ascension’s pastors, most recently Reverand Richard Schlak. These visits were a blessing to both Bob and Melanie. Especially in the days preceding his death, Melanie never let Bob forget who he belonged to and who had prepared a home for him in heaven. Jesus’ promise of an eternal home for all who believe in Him is powerful medicine. Bob is home now—no tears, no pain and no suffering.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Troy R. Gallagher in 2003; his mother, Alma V. Gallagher in 1989; his son, Joseph W. Gallagher in 2017; his granddaughter, Kelly Gallagher-Barbaree in 2019; and his sister, Virginia A. Gallagher in 2016.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Melanie Gallagher; his children, Troy Gallagher and Virginia Durden both of Mauk, GA; six grandchildren (Trisha, Joe, Bethany, Austin, Robert and Troy); two great grandchildren (Kaylynn and Brently); his siblings, Talton “Feller” Gallagher (Paula), Debbie Davis, Tammy Gallagher (Misty), all of Beeville, TX; eleven nieces and nephews, Sharon Fulbright, Paul Gallagher (Crystal), Mark Gallagher (Janet), Mike Gallagher (Sierra), Nathan Davis, Sara Beth Davis, Shawn Gallagher (Briana), Terri Marie Appleton, Kalee Appleton, David Patterson, Holly Turney (Stephen); and his sister-in-law, Marty Patterson (Van). He is also survived by many great nieces and nephews, and many extended family and friends who cherish and honor his memory.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Homes-West, 4880 N. Resler. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Ascension Lutheran Church, 6520 Loma De Cristo Drive, with Pastor Richard Schlack presiding. A Graveside Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with full military honors.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Rev. 14:13