Obituaries

John L. Gallagher

JOHN L. GALLAGHER, SR., passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025. Born on June 29, 1944, in Wheeling, WV, he was the middle son of the late Thomas J. Gallagher, Sr., and Clara (Duvall) Gallagher. A husband, father, and grandfather, John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Vickey (Powell) Gallagher, whom he married on May 18, 1968. He leaves behind his sons, John L. Gallagher, Jr. (Chris) of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Michael (Lisa) Gallagher of Harrisburg, NC; and his adored grandsons, Brendan of Myrtle Beach, Joseph (Amy) of Lafayette, CO, and Connor of Harrisburg, NC. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his infant daughter, Erin Kathleen, and his brothers, Thomas J. Gallagher, Jr., and Charles “Chuck” Gallagher. A proud graduate of Follansbee St. Anthony High School, Class of 1962, John served his country honorably in the Air Force as an air traffic controller in Anchorage, AK, where he survived the devastating 1964 earthquake. He later earned a degree from West Liberty State College in 1970. His career spanned various industries, including RJ Reynolds, Weirton Steel, and Pillsbury/ADM Milling, from which he retired. Alongside his professional career, John also partnered with his trusted friend, Ray Green, to establish G&G Printing. For over 20 years, they crafted custom apparel, notably creating the “Down state, don’t hesitate, Go Brooke Go” shirts for the 1987 Brooke High School state championship team. John was a passionate sports enthusiast, fiercely loyal to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Brooke Bruin teams. He dedicated his time as president of the Brooke High Booster Club in the 1970’s and as business manager of Wellsburg American Legion Post 34 Baseball for over two decades. Known for his vibrant Irish spirit, John hosted memorable St. Patrick’s Day celebrations for over 25 years. He was a dedicated member of American Legion Post 34, serving in several leadership roles, including Post Commander. The Gallagher family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Valley Hospice for their compassionate care, and to the Brooke County Ambulance volunteers, especially Jonathan and Allison Hood and Chief Larry Rea, for their unwavering support. Visitation was held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Mullenbach Funeral Home and again on Saturday, March 29, 2025 until the time of Funeral Liturgy of the word, with Fr. Gerald Muoka officiating. Full Military Honors were conducted by the Ohio Valley Veterans Memorial Squad and the United States Air Force. Inurnment took place privately at Highland Hills Memorial Gardens in the West Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested all memorial donations may be made in John’s honor to Brooke County EMS, P.O. Box 268, Wellsburg, WV 26070.