1951-2025
Gerard Thomas Gaughan, 73, of Scranton, PA, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, surrounded by family who-thankfully-resisted the urge to argue about politics.
Born on October 7, 1951, in Scranton, Jerry lived a life of service, love, and sarcastic humor. He graduated from Central High School in 1969, was a member of the US Army reserves, and went on to serve as Director of Emergency Services for Lackawanna County for over 20 years, where he (somewhat) calmly handled chaos-and more than a few ambulance calls. He was also a member of the St. Patrick’s Parade Association, honored to serve as its President for one year. As a bleeding Irish Catholic Scranton Democrat, he understood the necessity of term limits.
A proud member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, Jerry celebrated his Irish heritage with the same intensity he brought to Penn State football games. He enjoyed doing genealogy research, fly fishing, going to all of his grandsons’ sporting events, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
He regretted very little in life but not making it to this year’s Festivus to air his grievances was high on the list.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Irene Gaughan, and his brother, Scott Gaughan. He is survived by his siblings Diane Nigro (Syracuse, NY), Kevin Gaughan (Scranton, PA), and Robert Gaughan (Scranton, PA); his children Tina Gaughan Powers (State College, PA), Jean Gaughan (Peckville, PA), Gerard Gaughan and wife Mariah (Peckville, PA), and Ralph (Deadhorse, AK); and his beloved grandchildren Finn, Jack, Lailani, and Vivienne.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Donahue Funeral Home, 300 S. Main St., Scranton (www.scrantonfuneralservices.com), from 4-6 p.m. The funeral mass will be held Monday, August 11, 2025, at St. Peter’s Cathedral, 315 Wyoming Ave., Scranton, at 9:30 a.m. Individuals planning on attending the Mass service are asked to proceed directly to the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).
Jerry’s warmth and humor will live on… or else.
You were the Best!. You will be missed.
Diane and Family
Praying for the brightest light perpetual to shine on Jerry’s beautiful soul and may every treasured memory be a blessing to you Diane and all who loved him.
Amen
Condolences to the family.
Jerry was a wonderful man who always had a smile on his face. This obituary captures his essence so well.
Diane and family, so sorry to read of your loss. May all your good memories sustain you, now, during this difficult time. My prayers go out to you and your family.
I am so very sorry for your loss Diane I know how much family means to you , hugs to you and Kevin, and the rest of the family …
Sending prayers for Jerry’s family.
Rest in Peace my friend.