Robert J "Bob" Gallagher

Robert J. Gallagher, age 87, passed peacefully at home on February 17, 2026.

Bob Grew up in Watertown. He was the son of the late Norman and Grace Gallagher of Watertown and the beloved husband of Virginia Gallagher. A devoted father to Robert Gallagher and Sharon Lorino, Bob was a proud and loving grandfather ("Papa") to Adriana Gallagher and her partner Gordon, Brittany Gallagher, Dahlia Gallagher and her partner Avery, Maleena Lorino, and Simone Gallagher. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Paul, Quincy, Lucy, Greta, Maven, Oskar, and Capri. Bob was a beloved Uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Bob is survived by his brother Hugh Gallgher of Medford, his brother Richard and wife Irene of Waltham, his sister-in-law Debbie, his Aunt Mary,and his brother in law Carmen Quintiliani and his wife Carol of Waltham. He was predeceased by his siblings Norman and his wife Rosemarie, Jack and his wife Pat, David, Kevin, and his sister AnneMarie, his sister in law Jeanette, Uncle Jim and his brother-in-law Anthony Quintiliani and his wife Ellie

Bob was an easygoing and happy man who embraced life each day. Known for his big personality, quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, he brought laughter wherever he went. He loved music of all types and would often just break into song. Over the past year we were able to get the music fan out to a few shows; Raul Malo of the Mavericks, Bella Bartok, and the Mary Wallopers. He and Virginia always made sure to take in Englebert anytime he came to town.

Family meant everything to him. He treasured time together, cookouts, outings, card games, bocce, and simply being together. He was a master at cribbage; when playing against him, his memorable smirk was enough to know you were doomed.

He was a true sports fan for all Boston sports but a diehard Red Sox fan. He enjoyed coaching Pop Warner; many of the boys he coached still referred to him as coach – yes indeed those Flintlock teams were legendary. A member of the Burlington Knights of Columbus for many years, he took pride in organizing and running the Knights of Columbus Golf tournament where he colorfully emceed the banquet.

He had a strong work ethic and took pride in his years working for the Town of Burlington in facilities for the town's Library. Prior to that he spent years running his own cleaning company and working for Stop and Shop. After retirement, he delivered books to assisted living residents who enjoyed his warm personality and looked forward to his visits.

Bob and his wife Virginia shared many happy times traveling, especially vacations to the islands, visits to the casino, and vacations with friends. He also cherished golf trips with friends, trips down the cape to Tony Cerullos,the bowling and golf league, and was always ready for a good game of poker.

How can we leave out the camaraderie and enjoyment of the legendary Travaglini parties and cookouts, with the Fortis, Cabral's, Duggan's, Curtin's, and Tony C. He has left behind many, many friends – some, thankfully know all the lyrics to Hey Mamie Riley – pass it on!

Bob will be deeply missed for his love, positive outlook, strength of spirit, and sense of humor.

Visiting Hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Wednesday, February 25 from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Thursday, February 26 at 9 a.m. Services will conclude with a Funeral Mass at St. Malachy Church in St. Veronica Parish, www.stveronicama.org, 99 Bedford Street, Burlington at 10 a.m. The interment will be private. In lieu of flowers memorials in Bob's name may be made to People Helping People, www.peoplehelpingpeopleinc.org P.O. Box 343, Burlington, MA 01803 or a Charity of One's own Choice.

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net