By Dionne Meehan
A LETTERKENNY man who tragically lost his life in a collision on St. Patrick’s Day was remembered as “the salt of the earth” during his requiem Mass this morning.
Anthony Gallagher and his brother Martin Gallagher were walking home from a night out when they were struck by a vehicle at around 3am, close to their home at Charlie Day Terrace in Ballymacool.
Tragically, Anthony succumbed to his injuries in Letterkenny University Hospital later on Monday, while Martin was airlifted to University Hospital Galway for treatment. He remains there today, viewing his brother’s requiem Mass from his hospital bed.
Both men, who are in their 60s, are very well known in Letterkenny.
Brothers Martin and Anthony Gallagher at a 90th birthday celebration a few years ago, Photo Brian McDaid.
This morning, hundreds of mourners gathered in St Eunan’s Cathedral in Letterkenny to say their final goodbyes to Anthony.
He worked as a council ‘lollipop’ man, manning the crossing close to his home at the bottom of the Back Road.
And in a beautiful tribute, Anthony’s ‘lollipop’ colleagues formed a guard of honour outside the cathedral.
At the beginning of Mass, three symbols which captured Mr Gallagher’s life were carried to the altar.
These included a lollipop stick, which he used so often, an Arsenal shirt, which reflected his love of sport, and a Letterkenny Heritage Magazine, which captured his pride in being from Letterkenny.
Addressing the congregation, chief celebrant Fr Anthony Hartnett, said Mr Gallagher devoted his life to helping others.
“While people these days struggle to stick at something for one year, Anthony managed to do it for 20,” he said.
“Every weekday morning, this was his habit.
“He rose to do his bit for the people of Letterkenny, just out there at the bottom of the Back Road, helping to make sure the girls and boys got to school safely.
“Lollipop stick in hand.”
School children form a guard of honour.
Fr Hartnett said Mr Gallagher also devoted much of his time, his energy and even his pockets, to his family.
“Especially to his late mother Brigid, who’s passing Anthony never forgot, and his late aunt Rosaleen, to whom he was especially devoted,” Fr Hartnett said.
“His generosity and his care for his family and his friends, is both a precious memory now and a pledge of his love for those God entrusted to his care.
“With Rosaleen and Brigid, we pray that God will take pity on his humble servant Anthony, the salt of the earth, as he was described.”
As Mass came to a end, Fr Hartnett addressed mourners on behalf of the Gallagher family.
“I have been asked to express sincere gratitude and thanks to all who expressed support and sympathy to them and Anthony over these last few days, since the early hours of Monday morning,” he said.
“And to thank, especially those, who were there, not just at the vigil, but also to the emergency services and An Garda Síochána and to the hospital staff, both here and in Galway.”
On behalf of the parish, Fr Hartnett renewed his condolences to Anthony’s family, friends and to the many that have been heartbroken over everything that has transpired.
“Be reassured of our ongoing prayer for you in this difficult time, and especially for you Martin,” he said.
“I hope you have been able to join us in prayer and know of our prayers for you also, and the prayers of this parish for you.
“As of course, over these days you will be remembering fondly, and with a sense of bitter sweetness, Anthony Gallagher.”
The remains of RTC victim Anthony Gallagher stops at the sc ene of the accident as it travels to his last resting place. (North West Newspix)
Burial took place afterwards in Conwal Cemetery.
Mr Gallagher is predeceased by his mother Brigid and aunt Rosaleen.
He is survived by his brother Martin, cousin Kevin and his wife Dolores.
He is deeply regretted by his extended family, good neighbours and many friends.
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