Bernadette Charlotte (Short) Gallagher

Bernadette Charlotte (Short) Gallagher, 74 years old, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 17, 2023 surrounded by family.

“Bernie” was born in Wilmington, DE to her late parents, Clarence A. and Marie F. Short.  She attended St. Helena’s Elementary School and then graduated from the Padua Academy in 1966. In her early life she worked as a Hair Stylist, but spent most of her career working for the Delaware Department of Elections until she retired in 2016.

Bernadette was a devout Catholic and a lifetime member of St. Helena’s Parish. She worked the Carnival & Christmas Bazaar; she was a member of the Christian Formation Committee and Devine Mercy Devotion.

Bernie loved everything Irish! She was very proud of her heritage and loved anything that showed it. She was an avid cook and baker - everyone loved her famous Irish Soda Bread. She loved Christmas, adored children, and enjoyed summer vacations in Rehoboth Beach with her family.

Bernadette is survived by her husband, James M. Gallagher; her siblings, Jean M Battaglia, Susan M. Leonard (Jim), Mary Kane (Jim), Terrance J. Short; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, on Monday, January 23 from 6:00 – 8:00PM.

Funeral Services will be held at St. Helena’s Catholic Church, 602 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE 19809 on Tuesday, January 24 with a visitation at 10:30AM and Funeral Mass at 11:30, internment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

A very special thank you goes out to Delaware Hospice, Christiana Care, and Pat Jones, her caregiver from Home Instead.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Delaware Hospice.

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