Archpriest Joseph J. Gallick, Jr., 77, fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at home surrounded by his family. Father Joe is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Matushka Nancy (Gilbert) Gallick.
Born in Carbondale and raised in Simpson, PA., he was the son of the late Joseph J. and Olga Herbert Gallick. Father Joseph was a graduate of Fell High School, Simpson, Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, South Canaan, PA, and received his Bachelor’s degree from Kings College, Wilkes-Barre, PA.
He was ordained into the holy priesthood in 1970 at Saint Tikhon’s of Zadonsk Monastery Church by Archbishop Kiprian. Father Joseph served in the armed forces as a United States Army military chaplain, including a tour in Afghanistan, 2004-2005. He retired from active duty as a decorated Lieutenant Colonel, and continued his legacy of service to others and his country as a Chaplain for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Father Joe was National Chaplain of the VFW in 2020. Father Joseph served the Annunciation Albanian Orthodox Church, Natick, MA, 1997-2021. He also served as the Assistant Dean and Deputy Director of the OCA’s Office of Military Chaplains.
FatherJoe, or Padre, as he was lovingly called by family and friends, had a deep love for the Lord and an immeasurable pride for his country. He spent his life in service to others and provided a grounded perspective to anyone seeking guidance. He was an avid reader and collector.
Father Joe was a quiet source of comfort to his family and friends, and his soft-spoken nature and nurturing presence will be deeply missed.
In addition to his wife, Father Joseph is survived by his son, Timothy, daughter, Kira Wishart (Lenny) and three granddaughters, Kylie, Lauren, and Sophia.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Nicholas.
The Funeral Service for a priest will be held on Wednesday, April 15, at 11:30 AM in Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk Monastery Church, 175 Saint Tikhon’s Road, South Canaan, PA, followed by internment with military honors. Family and friends may visit at the church from 10:30 AM until the service.
May Father Joseph’s memory be eternal!