Kenneth “Kenny” R. Gallant, 78, of Fremont, NH, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 9, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. Born in Lawrence, MA, on March 12, 1948, he was the son of the late Emile Gallant and Virginia (Berthel) Picard.
If there was one thing that defined Kenny, it was his unwavering devotion to his family. He was a husband, father, grandfather, and friend who showed his love through a lifetime of showing up, lending a hand, fixing what was broken, and making sure the people he loved were taken care of.
Kenny and his beloved wife, Beverly (Jacques) Gallant, had a love story that began when they were just 12 years old. They started out as friends, long before their friendship blossomed into romance and a marriage that spanned 53 years. Together, they built a life centered on family, hard work, and memories that will be cherished for generations.
An Army veteran, Kenny went on to become a lifelong employee of Raytheon, where he worked until his retirement. He took pride in working hard and providing for his family, and that same dedication carried into every part of his life. His home was his pride and joy, and he was always finding ways to care for it, improve it, and make it beautiful.
Kenny was happiest outdoors, especially when camping with family, friends, and his grandchildren. Camping wasn't just something he enjoyed, it was a way of bringing everyone together. He was a master of the campfire and the fire-poker, skills that were not to be questioned by anyone who knew him. Around the fire, he helped create the kind of memories that will live on with his family forever.
When he wasn't camping, there was a good chance you'd find Kenny tinkering in his garage. He was an unofficial mechanic, always ready to lend a hand when someone's car was in need. He had a knack for figuring things out and a willingness to help others. Neighbors and friends knew they could count on him, whether they needed a repair, a helping hand, or simply someone who was willing to show up.
He also had a green thumb and took great pride in his garden and the beauty of his home. Whether he was working in the garage, tending to his plants, or finding a project around the house to tackle, Kenny was happiest when he had something to work on and someone to do it for.
No tribute to Kenny would be complete without mentioning his sharp, blunt sense of humor. He had a way of saying exactly what was on his mind, often with a remark that left everyone laughing - or at least shaking their heads. You never had to guess what Kenny was thinking, and those who knew him wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
And then there was Kenny's “hollow leg” appetite. He loved to eat, and no meal was complete until he'd had his fill, and perhaps someone else's, too. Family members still laugh about the time he was asked not to return to an all-you-can-eat buffet. Apparently, even a buffet has its limits, and Kenny was determined to find them.
Even in his final days, Kenny was still being Kenny. His thoughts remained focused on the people he loved and how he could continue to take care for them. He insisted that the home generator be updated, because making sure his family was safe mattered to him right to the very end.
Kenny leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Beverly; his three daughters, Tina Marston and her husband, Chris; Tonia Eagleston and her husband, Bernard; and Toni Parks; his beloved grandchildren, Connor and Kevin Marston and Averie Parks; his brother, Richard (Uncle Ricky) Gallant; and several extended family members and dear friends. He will also be deeply missed by his two beloved dogs, Raza and Chloe.
Kenny leaves behind more than family and friends. He leaves behind campfire stories, cars that run a little better, gardens made more beautiful, and countless memories filled with laughter, love, and the occasional blunt remark. Most of all, he leaves behind the example of a man who spent his life taking care of the people who mattered most to him.
His family will forever carry his love, humor, generosity, and the memories of all the ways he made their lives better. And somewhere, we can imagine Kenny tending to a perfect campfire, keeping a watchful eye on everyone around him, and making sure there's enough food for one more helping.
Following cremation, the family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date. The Peabody Funeral Homes & Crematorium of Derry and Londonderry are assisting the family with arrangements.