Edward L. “Ed” Gallagher Jr., 71, of New Tripoli, died peacefully with his loving family by his side on June 16, 2024, at home.

The loving husband of Cynthia E. Petrich, the couple celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary in April.

Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Edward L. and Monica (King) Gallagher.

A 1971 graduate and a former basketball player at Dieruff High School, Allentown, he last worked as the director of buildings and grounds for the Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 in Tatamy, until retiring in 2003.

He served on the Bethlehem Area School District School Board and Bethlehem Area Vo-Tech board from 1983-2003.

The former director of Special Olympics at Intermediate Unit 20, he was a lifetime member of the PIAA.

He greatly enjoyed being a Pop-Pop to his two beloved granddaughters.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons Edward W. (Annie) Gallagher of Allentown and Daniel R. (Deanne) Gallagher of Slatington; granddaughters Emma and Mia Gallagher; sisters Monica Dronenburg and Maureen Gallagher, both of Allentown; and mother-in-law Eleanor H. Petrich of Cherryville.

There will be a graveside service 3 p.m. June 21 at Jacob’s Union Cemetery, 8373 Kings Highway, New Tripoli.

The Rev. Thomas R. Hamilton will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be sent to Forgotten Felines and Fidos Inc., P.O. Box 62, Germansville, PA 18053.

Condolences may be made at nesterfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were made by Nester Funeral Home Inc., New Tripoli.