Gerald Galvin

Gerald Murray Galvin (“Gerry”) of Yarmouth Port died peacefully in the late evening hours of April 15, 2026, enveloped in the love of his family. Gerry was born on December 29, 1933, in Somerville, MA, the first of seven children of the late Patrick and Lillian Galvin and the first of the family to be born in the United States. He was 92, and with his characteristic humor, proudly claimed the self-appointed title of “Oldest Galvin Ever.”

When Gerry was only 14, his father died. Gerry without hesitation stepped into the role of man of the house. That responsibility shaped him: he put family first, set an example of quiet sacrifice, and helped his siblings pursue their educations and careers. While an excellent student at B.C. High, Gerry declined a college scholarship so he could support his widowed mother and his six brothers and sisters — a choice that defined his life and became his greatest legacy.

Gerry is survived by his wife Laurel, and three children: Donna Faulkner of Estero, FL, Stephen Galvin and his wife Gabriela of Barnstable Village, and William Galvin of Hyannis. He is also survived by his sister Marilyn Saunders of Woburn and two grandchildren, Nathan and Alaina, and a great-granddaughter Aviana.

He was pre-deceased by his first wife and mother of their four children, Marilyn Ann Galvin (“Mal”) and his son Michael Galvin. Both losses left a profound mark on him. Gerry would also endure the passing of his younger siblings William Galvin, John Galvin, James Galvin, Kevin Galvin and Margaret Galvin (“Sister Marian Patrice, S.N.D.”). He will also be sorely missed by many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.

His family takes great comfort in knowing that he will now be reunited with those he loved and missed so deeply.

Gerry began working at an early age as a machinist and tried to attend as many college courses as his busy life would allow. His career eventually led him into the publishing industry where he served as a production manager at major publishers, including Houghton Mifflin, D.C. Heath, and Ballinger. Later

in life he joined the family business, Education Investment Group, as its first controller and finance manager — a role he counted among his proudest professional accomplishments.

Business, however, was never his priority. Gerry’s dry, cutting, and often self-deprecating wit was legendary; family gatherings were his stage, and he delighted in telling a story or delivering a perfectly timed one-liner. He had a laugh that would usually start well before the punchline landed, and he loved nothing more than to make those around him smile.

He volunteered his time and talents in the community and was a steady presence to friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Gerry will be remembered for his steady kindness, his wry humor, and the many small, practical ways he made life better for those he loved.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 3055 Main Street in Barnstable Village. His burial, with a graveside service, will be held on (TBD) at Chestnut Hill Cemetery at 55 Bedford Street, Burlington, MA. A reception hosted by the family will follow both services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Gerry Galvin Scholarship Fund for Northside Nursery School. Donations should be made c/o:

Northside Nursery School

165 Main Street

Yarmouth Port MA. 02675