John E. Gallagher

John E. Gallagher (age 72) passed peacefully in his sleep May 3rd, 2023 while residing at The Avenue of Lyndhurst. Beloved son of the late John J. and Virginia Gallagher and stepmother the late Margaret Gallagher. Brother to Denise Ann Schmitt (John), James Marvin and Jeffrey David Gallagher (Deanne). Loving Uncle, neighbor, and friend to many.

John has been a proud resident of Lyndhurst, Ohio and considered his neighbors and friends to be his second family. He lived on Ford Road for 69 years. He was a constant presence in the city of Lyndhurst and  Church of St. Clare.  He could frequently be seen in the front pew for Saturday evening mass and riding his bike around the neighborhood. He watched over the kids on Ford Road for several generations, making sure they crossed the street and got home safely from school. John was happiest when he was with people. He was endearing to everyone he met because of his positive attitude, kind heart, childlike spirit, and friendly manner. In 2010, the office of the mayor made a proclamation for John exemplifying Lyndhurst as “A Community of Neighbors”. He was further honored by being the Grand Marshal for the City of Lyndhurst parade.  

John attended Bolton School, Victory Park School, Julie Billiart, Memorial Junior High and graduated from Brush High School. John was a long-time employee at Hot Shops, a cafeteria at Severance, from 1968 through 1984, then worked at Tony Roma’s Restaurant in Mayfield Heights  from 1984 until 2006.   After his retirement he worked part time at Applebee's  and volunteered at the Greens of Lyndhurst Nursing home.  He enjoyed his pets, yard work, Lyndhurst Pool, and visiting with neighbors. John put countless miles on his bike each year.  He was most grateful for his neighbors and friends.  John has been a staple to the community and a terrific example of what it means to be a good neighbor and friend. John had  admiration and gratitude for his stepmother, sister and South Euclid Lyndhurst Schools for teaching him to be independent which allowed him to live alone in the home he loved dearly. 

FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE INVITED TO GATHER FOR MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL 10 AM THURSDAY MAY 11 AT THE CHURCH OF ST. CLARE, 5659 MAYFIELD ROAD, LYNDHURST OH 44124, INTERMENT TO FOLLOW AT ALL SOULS CEMETERY,  FRIENDS MAY CALL AT THE MAHER MELBOURNE FUNERAL HOME 5236 MAYFIELD ROAD, LYNDHURST, OH 44124 (EAST OF RICHMOND ROAD) ON THURSDAY MAY 11 FROM 9 AM UNTIL TIME OF SERVICE.

FOR THOSE WHO WISH, DONATIONS IN JOHN'S NAME SUGGESTED TO:

ST. JUDE'S HOSPITAL       @STJUDE.ORG  

OR THE CHURCH OF ST. CLARE IN LYNDHURST