Joseph Edward Gallagher

Joseph E. Gallagher, age 88, of Warwick, RI, formerly of Oceanside, CA, passed away on July 30, 2025 at West Shore Health Center. He was the loving husband of Frances A. (Costa) Gallagher to whom he had been married for 66 years.

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Michael J. and Florence R. (Cavalier) Gallagher. He graduated from Hope High School in 1954 and later proudly served in the U.S. Army, during which time he received electronics training. He worked as a technical writer for 40 years for various companies, retiring in 2001 from Raytheon.

He loved spending time with his family, taking summer camping trips to attractions across the U.S. when his children were young, visiting extended family to maintain connections, and attending school and sporting events for his children and grandchildren. He was very fond of their dogs over the years and, as designated dog walker, enjoyed meeting many neighbors. His easy going nature drew people to him, and he was always quick with a joke. He loved conversations with neighbors and strangers alike and was always willing to lend a hand.

In 2005, he and his wife moved to Oceanside, CA, for a new chapter in their lives, enjoying many years of warm weather and gatherings with a new circle of wonderful friends with whom they remained connected. They returned to the East coast in 2022 to be closer to family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters Kathleen Cattell (Edward) of WV, Michele Gallagher of Warwick, and Julie Sparks (Brian) of CT, four grandchildren, Stephanie Baker (Matthew), Andrew Sparks (Maureen), Corey Kerneen, and Emily Sparks (Stephanie), and four great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Penelope, Berkley, and Calliope. He was the brother of the late Sarah Reney, Walter Gallagher, Florence Sallander, and Catherine Chipman.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, August 16, from 9:30–11:00 am, followed by a memorial prayer service, at the Russell J. Boyle and Son Funeral Home, 142 Centerville Road, Warwick, RI 02886. Burial will be on a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice.