John F. “Jack” Galligan, 84, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at the Veterans’ Home in Bristol. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Philip and Bridget (McHugh) Galligan. He was the beloved husband of Irene (Boisvert) Galligan for 62 years, having reached this milestone together just two days prior.
Jack was a resident of Warwick where he was a communicant of Saints Rose & Clement Church. He was a proud United States Army veteran, serving in the Berlin Crisis (1961-62) and the Vietnam War (1968-69). Following his tour of duty in the Republic of Vietnam, the President of the United States awarded him the Bronze Star Medal for his meritorious combat service as Sergeant First Class with the 107th Signal Company. He had a distinguished 40-year career in the Rhode Island Army National Guard, having completed a total of six tours of duty. Jack retired in 1994 as first sergeant, receiving the Meritorious Service Medal from then President Clinton for his professionalism and dedication to the unit. He was a member of the William Shields, Jr. American Legion Post, and graduated from Johnson & Wales College and LaSalle Academy in Providence. For many years, Jack owned a 1965 Cadillac, which he showcased at car shows across the region, often winning first place trophies. He, Irene and Johnny have fond memories of the time spent at these shows, especially when they traveled to the prestigious Cadillac LaSalle Club Grand Nationals in Detroit, Michigan, taking first place in his class. Jack was a well-respected, devoted family man who always wanted the best for his wife and children. He was very proud of his Irish heritage and was quick with a ready smile, friendly demeanor and warm hospitality. He was a true gentleman and will be missed.
He was the loving father of Michael B. Galligan and his wife, Elisabeth, Linda A. Joseph and her husband, Mark, and the late John J. Galligan; loving grandfather of James and Dylan Joseph; brother of Ann Reilly and Kathleen Jessup. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to his Mass of Christian Burial Friday, September 11, 2020 at 10 a.m. in St. Clement Church, Long Street, Warwick. Private burial with Military Honors will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. A celebration of his life will be held Thursday from 4-8 p.m. in the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Home, 2435 Warwick Avenue, Warwick. Facemasks are required and social distancing will be observed. Information and condolences, visit TheQuinnFuneralHome.com
