Obituary of Stephen R. Gaherty

Stephen R. Gaherty - Of Huntington, passed away on October 12, 2024, at the age of 75. He was the beloved husband of Georgiana, whom he adored. Loving father of Dominique Connolly (Stephen) and devoted stepfather to Russell Dickson (Linda), Gigi Dickson, and Kim Porter (Phil). Proud grandfather of Caitlin & Avery, who were his pride and joy, as well as Ian (Alicia), Quinn, Caitlin (Kevin), Megan (Ben), Michael, Georgie, Victoria, and Brian. Cherished great-grandfather of Brinley, Maren, Kaden, Grace, and Luke. Dear brother to Kenneth (SueAnn), Allan (Karlya), and Christopher, and fond brother-in-law to Maureen Pierce. Stephen was also loved by his niece Kathleen and nephew Kevin.

Stephen had a distinguished 27-year career in the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Captain, serving in Thailand during the Vietnam war and then spending time in the Middle East during the first Gulf War. After retiring from the military, he spent several years working in the gardening and landscaping industry including time at Hicks Nursery. He then embarked on a second career in logistics and operations, working with Northrop Grumman and later Peerless Electronics. Upon his second retirement he was again drawn to his passion for flowers working part-time at Martin Viette. 

An avid gardener he transformed the landscape at every home he lived in leaving his legacy in plants. Also a woodworking enthusiast, Stephen had an impressive collection of antique wooden planes and found great joy in assembling HO model trains and their layouts.  He was a dedicated member of the Long Island Garden Railway Society, serving as past Vice President as well as the Grumman Train Club. His basement workshop and expansive train layout were his creative sanctuary, where he spent countless hours perfecting his craft.

Visitation will be held at Nolan Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 15, from 4-8 PM. A Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, October 16, at 10 AM at St. Philip Neri Church in Northport, followed by burial at Calverton National Cemetery with Air Force Honors.