Jerome J. Gallagher

Jerome “Jay” Gallagher Born September 23, 1945 in the Bronx, New York, died suddenly August 7, 2021 in Parma, Ohio. He is survived by his beloved life partner of 36 years Debbie Ronsky Jones, brothers Thomas of Chicago, Illinois and Brian (Michelle) of Pensacola, Florida, sister Monica Crisp (George) of Jacksonville, Florida, and David (Joanie) Ronsky of Seven Hills, Ohio. He also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews and friends. Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Jerome and Margaret, and sister Carleen Ball. Jay was a resident of the Cleveland, Ohio area for most of his life and graduated from St. Edward’s High School. He served in the U. S. Navy from 1965 to 1969 and then in the U. S. Naval Reserves from 1969 to 1971. Jay was known for his bear hugs, spaghetti sauce, and annual clam bakes and pig roasts with friends. He had a wicked sense of humor. Always quick with a joke – he seemed to know them all. He always let everyone know where he stood, usually in a booming voice. Jay’s smile and love of family and friends will be greatly missed – he was a real character, but he was our character. A celebration of Jay's life will be at Sachsenheim Hall, 7001 Denison Ave., Cleveland, Sunday, October 3, 2021 at 1 p.m. Please contact Debbie or Wendy with any questions.