Barbara Rockwood Gallagher

Barbara Rockwood Gallagher, age 80, of Stone Mountain, GA, passed away peacefully Thursday, April 16, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Allan Brainard Rockwood Jr. and Marjorie Albro Rockwood.

Born on September 8, 1945, in Springfield, MA, she developed a passion for education at an early age. After attending the University of Georgia for two years, she earned a bachelor’s degree in education from State College at Boston in 1967. Barbara taught elementary school for four years in Norwood, MA, prior to becoming a stay-at-home mom. She resumed her teaching career in DeKalb County, GA, in 1990 at Avondale Estates Elementary School, teaching kindergarten and first grade and serving as a paraprofessional in the math lab. Even as a stay-at-home mom, she continued her love of teaching with her own children, often providing educational opportunities during the summer. She retired in 2007 after touching the lives of countless students with patience, encouragement, and a genuine love of learning.

Through the years, she enjoyed her beagles, bridge group, painting ceramics, sewing, and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs on the football field. She enjoyed most puzzles and games, and worked on her Sudoku and crossword puzzles daily. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren, especially at her home-away-from-home, Fernandina Beach, FL.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Richard “Dick” Gallagher of the home; sister, Carol Ely of The Villages, FL; daughter, Brenda Holcombe (Randall) of Sylva, NC; son, Scott Gallagher (Donna) of Clarks Hill, SC; grandchildren, Dakota (Sarah Beth) and Dalton; and great-grandchildren, Laken, Brenton, and Brayden.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 3:00-4:00 pm at Wages & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory in Stone Mountain. The memorial service will begin at 4:00 pm in the chapel with Dr. Dan Parker officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or a charitable organization of your choice. Final resting place will be shared with family and friends at a later time.