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Vinny (Vincent) Gallagher, 67, passed away peacefully at home in Vero Beach on July 1, 2024, under the care of his family and hospice. Born on November 7, 1956, in Flushing, New York, Vinny lived in Long Island, Delaware, and Vero Beach, Florida.
Vinny graduated from the State University of New York at Brockport.
Vinny is survived by his loving wife, Mareta Gallagher; his brother, Cornelius (Christine); his sister, Eileen (Barry Scharfschwerdt); nieces Megan Scharfschwerdt and Katherine Gallagher; and nephews Peter Scharfschwerdt (Megan Carey) and Timothy Gallagher. He was predeceased by his parents, Vincent and Rosemary (Ryan) Gallagher.
Vinny’s friends remember him as a knowledgeable and engaging conversationalist with interests spanning sports, travel, music – especially jazz and blues, restaurants, home maintenance, and cooking. He was known for his sincerity and attentiveness in conversations.
His family recalls him as an exceptional uncle, a loving son and brother, and an amazing son-in-law who helped care for Mareta’s father during his final months. Vinny’s generous nature left a lasting impression on everyone he met, with countless stories of his selfless giving. He was an active member and volunteer for Meals on Wheels, embodying his spirit of giving and service.
Professionally, Vinny worked in hydraulic tool sales, but his true passion was bartending, where he met Mareta. Together, they enjoyed entertaining friends and family, attending jazz festivals, traveling, reading, and celebrating life.
Vinny’s positive outlook and determination in facing ALS inspired many. Despite the challenges, he and Mareta embraced every moment together, living life to the fullest.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Team Gleason Foundation, PO Box 24493, New Orleans, LA 70184, teamgleason.org/donate, or the VNA Hospice Foundation, 920 37th Place #101, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Vinny was one of the good ones, known for his friendliness and the impact he had on those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him!
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Kate - Friend
July 9, 2024, 1:32 pm
I miss you Vinny. Give Johnny U a big hug from me! And tell that golden armed wonder that I said to hug you right back!
Judi Lucks - Friend
July 9, 2024, 4:06 pm
We are so very sorry for your loss. We are blessed to have met him and were so impressed how he did not let ALS define him. Praying for comfort and peace for you and his family.
Love, Judi and Larry
Toni Essner - Friend
July 10, 2024, 12:02 am
I will miss Vinny forever!! I will never be wife #2 for anyone else.
Mary Ann Lucks - Friend
July 10, 2024, 5:16 am
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family during this difficult . Love, Mary Ann
Rich Tischler - Friend
August 3, 2024, 4:19 pm
Vinnie was a mensch. Be it at the Schoon, digging the North Sea Jazz Fest, or skiing in Austria, my times with him will always be dear to me. A soulful cat…