Richard P. "Rich" Gallagher, Jr.

Richard P. Gallagher, Jr., of Reading, Massachusetts, passed away on April 17, 2026, at Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers following a brief illness. He was raised in New Jersey, the beloved son of the late Marjorie (Kreger) and Richard P. Gallagher, Sr.

Rich was a proud graduate of Montclair State University and built a long and accomplished career in financial services. In later years, he found great joy in substitute teaching and coaching middle school soccer, sharing his love of learning and sports with the next generation.

Above all else, Rich’s greatest love was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ann, with whom he shared 28 wonderful years, and their cherished children, Caleb and Catherine, who were the center of his world. He was happiest in life’s simple, meaningful moments—grilling for loved ones, spinning music in his home music room, or cheering from the sidelines as a proud soccer dad and coach.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Rich especially loved soccer and baseball. Though originally a Mets and Dodgers fan, he became a dedicated Boston Red Sox supporter and a 30-year season ticket holder. His passion for sports extended beyond fandom—he played soccer in college and remained deeply involved as both a coach and mentor.

Rich was a true renaissance man with a wide range of interests. He was a lifelong learner with a deep curiosity about the world—whether exploring history, sharing baseball trivia, birdwatching, following the weather, or enjoying craft beer and fine wine. He found peace in nature, often rising early for runs at sunrise or pausing to observe a red-tailed hawk or the quiet beauty of the day.

Known for his warmth and kindness, Rich never met a stranger. He had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and capable. Grounded in his Christian faith yet gregarious, he brought a calm presence, a generous spirit, and a wonderful sense of humor to all who knew him. He loved to laugh, share a good joke or meme, and spend time with friends and family.

A gentle soul, Rich had a special compassion for animals, often rescuing those in need—including his beloved pet opossum, Opie—and caring deeply for his dog, Winnie.

Rich will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a loyal friend, and an extraordinary human being. His legacy is one of kindness, acceptance, laughter, curiosity, and a deep respect for the natural world. He lived with humility and heart, always putting others first.

Rich leaves behind family members Patricia Heatley,  Lynda (Stanley) Gallagher, Brian Powers and Katie Riggs, Mary Powers, Mary Campagnolo and niece Natalia Powers-Riggs and nephews Will Heatley, Luke Gallagher and Aidan Powers-Riggs. He was the brother of the late John Gallagher.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services on Friday & Saturday ( see below ).

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the CJD Foundation (cjdfoundation.org), where support for research and a cure is greatly needed. (Link Below)

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