Charles F. Gallagher, 76, of Chelmsford, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Lowell General Hospital, Saints Campus, after a courageous battle with cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived.
Born on December 15, 1947, in Lowell, Charles was the beloved son of the late Charles A. Gallagher and the late Elizabeth (Barrows) Gallagher. He spent his formative years in Lowell, receiving his education at Saint Peter's School and Keith Academy. His academic journey continued as he earned his bachelor's degree from Lowell State College and went on to achieve his master's degree from Fitchburg State College.
A resident of Chelmsford since the 1970s, Charles was known for his kindness and sense of humor, always brightening the lives of those around him. A passionate chess player, he enjoyed the intellectual challenge the game brought him.
For over three decades, Charles dedicated his professional life to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services. He retired in 2008 as the Director of Worker’s Compensation and Litigation and the Director of the Firearms Unit for the Human Resources Department of the State of Massachusetts, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and those he worked alongside.
Charles is survived by his devoted companion of over 40 years, Kathy Boisvert of Chelmsford. Together, they created a loving family that includes his son, Christopher Gallagher, and granddaughter, Charley May Gallagher. He also leaves behind three sisters, Mary E. Lukas and her partner Peter Wetherbee of Chelmsford, Margaret A. Dorr of Dracut, and Anne Gallagher of Chelmsford, as well as sister-in-law Vera (Quinlan) Gallagher of Lowell.
His extended family includes David Ward and his wife Michelle Carignan of Stow, MA and their twin sons Jackson and Luke. Charles will be fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his brother Arthur P. Gallagher
In celebrating Charles F. Gallagher's life, let us remember the joy he brought to all who knew him and the impact he made on the lives of many. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration.
His Family would like to thank the nurses at the Lowell General Cancer Center for the care he received.
You are welcome to attend his visitation on December 29, 2023 from 9 am until 11 am at the McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell, MA, 978-458-6816. His funeral Mass will take place at the Immaculate Conception Church at 12 noon, following the visitation. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in his memory to the Dana-Farber Jimmy Fund/Tributes, 1 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02146 Find us on facebook or visit www.McDonoughFuneralHome.com to leave the family a message of condolence at any time.