Obituary of Gerry Gallagher

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gerald Robert Gallagher, who left us peacefully on July 24, 2025. A devoted husband, father, coach, and mentor, Gerry’s life was marked by unwavering dedication, selfless service, and a love for family and community that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Born on Christmas Day in 1951 to George and Martha Gallagher in Dover, NJ, Gerry was the eldest of six siblings and grew up in Rockaway. From a young age, he took on the role of leader and protector, a quality that would define his life and career. During his high school years, Gerry met Patricia, the love of his life and his lifelong teammate. High school sweethearts, the two were married shortly after graduation and shared more than 52 years of love, laughter, and mutual devotion.

Together, they built a beautiful life, raising three children and instilling in them the values of integrity, hard work, and compassion. The Gallaghers started their family in Boonton, later spending time in Montville and Wharton, before travelling to multiple stops in Pennsylvania as Gerry pursued new career opportunities, then eventually making his way back to New Jersey where he lived in Rockaway for over 31 years. 

Gerry earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education from William Paterson University, which laid the foundation for his calling as a football coach and educator. Over the years, he dedicated himself to the growth and development of countless student-athletes, coaching at multiple schools and working with children of all ages, including those with special needs. His patience, passion, and relentless positivity left an indelible mark on every athlete he mentored. Always awake before the sun and bursting with enthusiasm, he was more than a coach; he was a role model and a second father.

Gerry’s lifelong love for football was a central part of who he was. He was an unwavering fan of both the New York Giants and the Georgia Bulldogs, and his passion for the game ran deep. This love for football wasn’t just about the teams he cheered for; it was something he shared with his family, particularly his beloved grandson. Together, they would spend hours in the woods, searching for “pirate’s gold”, a special tradition that filled their time with laughter, adventure, and memories that will be treasured forever.

In the football world, Gerry’s legacy is etched in the hearts of all who knew him. His remarkable dedication to the sport earned him multiple honors throughout his career, including the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Power of Influence Award, inductions into the New Jersey Football Coaches Hall of Fame, Morris Catholic Hall of Fame, and the William Paterson Hall of Fame. Above all, he was humbled to receive the Ray McCrann Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the game and his profound impact on the lives of countless athletes. Gerry’s legacy in football will endure as a testament to his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the sport he loved.

Family was at the heart of everything Gerry did. He never missed a game, especially when his children were on the field. Whether coaching their teams or cheering from the sidelines, Gerry was always present, Dunkin’ coffee and donuts in hand, arriving early with his signature smile. His bond with his son Bryan, who followed in his coaching footsteps, was especially strong, and their shared love of the game brought them even closer.

Gerry’s legacy lives on in the athletes he coached, the students he uplifted, the friends he cherished, and above all, the family he loved so deeply. Gerry is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Gallagher, his children Amy Gallagher, Bryan (Lauren) Gallagher, and Cayleigh (Jennifer) Gallagher. His cherished grandson Kellen Gallagher. His siblings John Gallagher, Marianne (Billy) Marcello, Joanne Jaeger, Kathleen (Patrick) Murphy, Michael (Kathy) Gallagher, and many more loving family members, including nieces, nephews, and extended relatives, all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts.

If you would like to contribute to Gerry’s life in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the American Diabetes Association. Donations can be made via inmemof.org.

Friends and family are welcome to join for a public visitation for Gerry held on Thursday, July 31st, from 3 to 7 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services. A funeral mass will be held the following day, August 1st, 2025, at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Ave, Denville. All are welcome to join us in celebrating the life of this incredible man, and please leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Gerry’s light shine!

*If you were unable to attend Mass, you can watch it anytime through St. Mary's YouTube page or by clicking here.*