Richard J. Gallagher

Richard was born on April 2, 1955 in Watertown, CT to the late Winifred (Hancock) and James P. Gallagher. He spent much of his life in Watertown before meeting the love of his life, his wife Karen, and moving to Southington to raise his family.

Richard worked hard for many companies, most recently as a parts specialist at J B Hunt Transport in Windsor Locks. He comes from a family of firefighters and carried on that honor as a volunteer firefighter for both Watertown and Southington, and was a volunteer EMT as well. Helping people and serving his community was very important to him. He was known for his dry sense of humor and sarcasm and was loved by everyone who knew him. He always seemed to have a smile on his face. Richard loved watching Nascar and appreciated old cars – he could even tell you the make, model, and year of one as it drove by!

Richard was a loving husband, father, and a proud grandfather of two granddaughters who he loved dearly. He will be missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he’s touched.

In addition to his wife Karen, Richard is survived by his children: Kevin Gallagher and wife Kristina of Plainville, CT, and Emily Gallagher of South Boston, MA; his grandchildren Rileigh and Delaney; his brother Andrew Gallagher and wife Cindy of Watertown; his sisters: Mauri Hebert, Ann DeMarest and husband Jim, and Rosemary Adams and husband Gary, all of Watertown, CT; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Richard is predeceased by his parents and his brother Michael Gallagher.

Calling hours will be held from 12-4pm on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021 at the DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N Main St., Southington. Due to the pandemic and limited seating, walk-through visitation is advised and masks and social distancing are required. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021 at St. Thomas Church, 99 Bristol St., Southington. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s name to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Foundation (www.komen.org). For online condolences please visit www.dellavecchiasouthington.com