Roger Richard Gaillard

Roger Richard Gaillard, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away on January 27th at age 92. Born in McDonald, PA on August 16, 1932 to the late Henry and Albertha Gaillard. Roger was a multi-sport high school athlete and attended Waynesburg College on a football scholarship. In his sophomore year, he met the love of his life, Laura Ferrell, with whom he raised three children and celebrated 70 years of marriage last June. Roger began his career in the US Marine Corps, where he became a pilot, flying helicopters and planes, and even had the honor of flying the Presidential detail under Eisenhower. During these years, he was stationed at Quantico, VA, Pensacola, FL and abroad in Okinawa, Japan and the Philippines. He also continued playing football in the Marines. Following his military service, he began working for Williams and Company, a steel and metals supplier, based in Pittsburgh, PA. His first job was on the sales desk, but over his 35+ year tenure, he became the CEO and Pittsburgh became home. In these years, he also discovered golf, which became a lifelong passion.
Beyond his career, Roger was known for his genuine, kind nature and warm personality-- ever the charmer, who was sure to put a smile on your face! He and Laura retired to Callawassie Island, SC and grew to love the beauty and ease of the Lowcountry, plus 27 holes of Tom Fazio golf, where he taught all three of his grandchildren to play.
Roger is survived by his loving wife, Laura Ferrell Gaillard, his daughter, Laura Wise (Gary) and son, Roger Scott Gaillard (Ivana); Roger was a proud grandfather to his grandchildren, Julie Hartley (Chad), Elizabeth and Roger L. Gaillard and great-grandchildren, Leah and Chase Hartley. He also leaves behind his sister, Huguette Pletincks and brother, Richard Gaillard (Blanche), nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Sadly, he was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Susan Gaillard Olliff, brother, Ronald Gaillard (Mona), and brother-in-law, Dr. John Pletincks.
His family wishes to recognize the extraordinary warmth and kindness of the caregivers-- those at Legacy Living, and Tina Smith, who have offered vital and heartfelt support over the past two years to Roger and Laura. Many thanks for all the love and care!
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, February 1st at 12:30pm at Legacy Living, 8520 Gunpowder Road, Florence, KY 41042.
In memory of Roger, donations can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at t2t.org.