Paul Gallagher, affectionately known as “Gal” to his University of Delaware friends, passed away peacefully after a 13 month battle with cancer at his home in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ on June 11, 2025 at the age of 60.

He shared 43 wonderful years with his wife, Susan, including nearly 30 years of marriage.

Together, they were blessed with three beautiful children, Ellen, 26, who just married Jordan Davidson - a beloved addition to our family (the two also found each other at UD), currently working in communications at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia; Joseph, 24, now embarking on a career in computer science at Starnet Solutions in Farmingdale after graduating form the University of Maryland; and Daniel, 22, newly graduated from UConn and beginning his journey as a mechanical engineer at General Dynamics Electric Boat in New London, CT.

Born in Springfield, PA, Paul attended Cardinal O’Hara High school before earning his degree in business at the University of Delaware, where he also ran track. His career spanned leadership roles at several prestigious companies including Raytheon Engineers & Constructors, The Shaw Group, Parsons, and his own firm, Comvia. His sharp eye for improvement and exceptional problem-solving skills ultimately led him to his most recent role as an executive at MPR Associates, where he dedicated his expertise to business development and consulting. His work took him across the world, allowing him to build friendships along the way, including during his years living in Ireland.

In 2014, Paul achieved his longtime goal of “50 by 50,” having travelled to every state, a pint in hand at an Irish pub in each.

Paul and Susan retired to their beloved beachside home in 2021, where a plaque in their kitchen window reads:

“An old Irishman lives here with the love o’ his life.”

A man of honesty, integrity, generosity, and humor, Paul will be deeply missed by Susan, Ellen, Joe and Dan, (and Krissy and Kennedy) as well as their extended family. As the youngest of 9 children, Paul cherished his time with his parents, Anne and Joe Gallagher, now deceased, and siblings Eileen (deceased), Gina, Dan (deceased), Ed (deceased), Pat, Mike, Tom, Maureen, and their families.

While living in Lorton, VA, Paul cherished his years coaching his children in baseball, basketball and softball. After retirement, he coached softball at St. Rose High School in Belmar NJ. He was grateful for exceptional fellow coaches and talented players year after year. It brought him such joy to watch the Purple Roses improve and progress under his coaching.

Their compassion during his illness was deeply touching.

Beyond his accomplishments, Paul found happiness in a ‘proper’ pint of Guinness, relaxing at the shore and on his front porch, and cheering on his beloved Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies.

Above all, his greatest source of joy was his children.

As he once wrote:

“To say we are proud of our children is an understatement. They are all loving and caring individuals who genuinely care for each other and the rest of their family and friends. They are each shining in their own way as they begin their own lives.”

Paul’s life was a testament to his love for his family and friends. Whether known as Dad, Uncle Paul, brother, cousin, friend… or simply Paul or Gal – raise a glass in his honor.

A visitation will take place:

Wednesday evening

7-9 pm

Van Hise and Callagan Funeral Home

812 Arnold Ave

Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742

A pre-funeral visitation will be held:

Thursday 10:00 am

Followed by a funeral at 10:30 am

St. Rose Roman Catholic Church

603 7th Ave.

Belmar, NJ 07719

If anyone is interested in making a donation, we recommend

https://www.christinefffounda…

Which supports families, caregivers, and individuals facing financial hardship due to cancer or other illnesses. Thank you. 

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