Leah Marion Gallagher

With sadness, but with joy for a life well lived, the Gallagher and Bowland families announce the peaceful passing of their beloved mother, sister and grandmother, Leah on October 24th, 2025.

Leah Marion Bowland was born on August 2nd, 1937 in St Martins to loving parents Maurice and Mary (McFarland) Bowland. She grew up on Mosher Hill in St Martins with her 5 brothers and sisters and attended St Martins Superior School.

Leah worked as a governess before meeting the love of her life Ronald Gallagher. The couple married and welcomed four children whom they raised on 135 McNamara Drive in Lakewood Heights. Leah was the CEO of her household, an astute financial manager and ran a tight and tidy ship. She was a talented referee, taxi driver, chef, nurse, gardener and teacher. The Gallagher’s spent many Saturday nights at the race track cheering on Ronnie and enjoyed Sunday drives to nowhere for ice cream. Leah was fiercely devoted to her family, doted on her children and later, with glee, her grandchildren. She leaves us with warm memories of handmade teddy bears, cakes and tea, perfect grilled cheese sandwiches and the best hugs.

Following Ronnie’s passing Leah remained committed to the love and friendship they had shared over the course of 46 years of marriage. She missed him every day and even when her memories began to fade, her love for him was endless.

Leah is survived by her children Edward (Marlene), Donald (Claudia), Mark (Natasha), and Lisa (Mark); her siblings Clytie (Charles) and Lynn (Larry); her grandchildren: Thomas (Kaley), Jennifer (Josh), Matthew (Allison), Shannon (Justin), Ashley and Anna; great grandchildren Josie, Karley, Carson, Vayda, Kiki, Leo, and Indie; her daughter in law Nancy; sister in law Doreen; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Ronnie, her brothers Raymond and Ralph (Jane), sister Rhoda (Hartley), nephews Ricky, Maurice (Zeke), Randy, Tony and nieces Cynthia and Heather. 

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff at Kennebec Manor who provided attentive and loving care to Leah their “Grannie”.

We take comfort knowing that after waiting patiently with us for 23 years, Leah is now off to the stockcar races with her dearest Ronnie.

Visiting will be held at the St Martins Baptist Church at 211 Main Street St Martins on Tuesday October 28th, from 10:30-12:30. A service to celebrate Leah’s life will be held at the church at 1:00 followed by internment at The Mosher Hill Cemetery.

The family invites you to join them at the Bowland homestead, 2414 Route 111 for a reception from 3:00-5:00 to gather and share memories of Leah.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer Society of Canada or to Stoneybrook Veterinary Services, email: info@stoneybrookvet.ca in Leah’s memory.