Robert Harry Gallant

Scarborough - Robert H. Gallant, Papa, Pa, Bobby, Robert, Mr. Gallant, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, 95 of Portland, Maine left us peacefully on October 13, 2025. Robert was born in Sanford, Maine and was raised on Little Middle Street in Portland (also called Little Italy).

If you were blessed to know “Papa” you will know these words we write today will not do justice, but only touch upon and give a small glimpse of what a beautiful full life this man lived, how devoted he was to his family and friends, words just are not enough.

Robert proudly served in the Marine Corps and later traveled around the world as a Merchant Marine. Robert’s heart was always anchored in Maine. He was a true New Englander, steady and hardworking and always ready to lend a hand. In 1959 he married the love of his life Jacqueline Tomasso with who he shared 51 wonderful years with before her passing in 2010.

Robert had a very curious mind and craved knowledge. He was always up to date with current events, the latest health studies, and even smart phone technology. He had a love to learn and was very well read. There was never a shortage of reading materials at Papa’s house or in his truck. Many times you would find him at the “compound” reading and collecting rent money, at Twin Swirls ice cream parlor, and/or at the Market Basket parking lot reading in his truck, oh and buying his Lucky for Life lottery tickets, which was a daily affair.

Papa always drew in neighborhood friends to the Hartley Street garage sharing his over seas stories, having a few “how do you do’s”, eating good food and sitting by the wood stove. So many memorable times shared at Hartley Street and all along Papa was showing everyone by example what life is all about. Papa’s sense of humor, quick wit, honesty, and unbelievable memory kept everyone who was listening intrigued and in awe.

Papa will always be our family Hero. A man we aspire to and have great reverence and love for. Papa lived his life with dignity purpose, intention and was independent up until his last days. Truly a masterpiece of art and a true testament to what living fully means.

Papa is resting peacefully with his lovely wife Jackie (Mama) and his grandson Evan eating her meatballs, that he so missed and telling stories of the last 15 years.

Robert was predeceased by his parents, his wife Jacqueline Gallant, and his grandson Evan Gallant. He is survived by his brother Rocky Manoriti, his four children Concetta Morse Gallant and Jim Smith, Anthony Gallant and wife Marie Finch, Joseph Gallant and Joyce McInnis, Jeannie Gallant and Kenny Clayton. His grandchildren, Concetta and Stephen Sawyer, Francesca Gallant and Paul Patriotti, Marissa and Patrick Pearson, Mia Gallant, Daniel Krupski, Sammy Gallant, Jacqueline Morse, and Drew McInnis and great grandchild Penelope Pearson.

Our family would like to extend our warmest thank you and gratitude to the staff at Maine Medical Center and the staff at Gosnell House. Their kind care and tender treatment of our father was a blessing to us. You are very special people.

The family invites you to a time of visitation on Thursday October 23rd from 4:00 to 7:00pm at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St, Portland, ME. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 24 at 10:00am at St. Peters Roman Catholic Church, 72 Federal Street Portland, Maine. Interment will be in New Calvary Cemetery, South Portland, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gosnell House.

You may offer your condolences or share your loving memories at www.jonesrichbarnes.com