CMSGT. Joseph W. Gallagher, Jr., USAF, Retired, 82, of Fairview Heights, IL, born November 30, 1942, in Boston, MA, died Monday, March 17, 2025, at his residence surrounded by his loved ones.
A Vietnam War veteran, Joseph served in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant, after proudly serving his country for 24 years. He later worked in civil service at Scott Air Force Base. Joseph was a handyman who could fix anything. He loved working on old cars, especially his 1953 GMC pickup truck. Joseph enjoyed a good cup of black coffee and he adored his grandkids.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Sr. and Mildred, nee Thrope, Gallagher.
Surviving are his loving wife of 19 years, Cynthia Gallagher, whom he married on September 9, 2005; five children, David Gallagher, Leslie Thacker, Christina (Ryan) Hemmerle, Colleen (Keith) Hagan, and Kimberley Buckley (Josh Geusz); five grandchildren, John Thacker, Olivia Hemmerle, Macy Hemmerle, Elizabeth “Ezer” Hemmerle, and Harper Gonzalez; and his sister, Donna Stevens.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
According to Joseph’s wishes, cremation services were held.
A burial with honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO at a later date.
