Robert Joseph Galletta Sr.

Robert Joseph Galletta, Sr. of Shell Point Community in McIntosh County, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at the age of 90.

Robert was born on April 27, 1934, in Savannah to the late Joseph Eugene Galletta and the late Lena Mae Lariscy Galletta. He spent many of his childhood years on Wilmington Island and was given his first boat when he was six years old, launching a love of the water that lasted a lifetime.

Robert joined the United States Navy at age 17. He served on a hospital ship during the Korean War and was a prize-winning boxer during his service. Upon returning to Savannah, he met the love of his life, LaTrelle Hubbard, and together they raised four children. Before retiring, Robert was employed with Union Camp Corporation for 46 years where he excelled in the educational opportunities available to him and became a Master Electrician.

Robert was competitive, industrious, and high spirited. He raced hydroplane boats throughout his life, winning numerous titles and championships. In 1959, he won the Southeastern Boating Association High Point Championship, and, upon returning to the sport in the late 80s, won the American Power Boat Association National High Point Championship in 1989. He constructed a 25 ft fiberglass shrimp boat in his backyard, and enjoyed putting his nets in the water at every opportunity, and he operated his own electrical contracting company.

Robert loved his family dearly and was a huge presence in the lives of his grandchildren. He also had a special place in his heart for animals, never letting one go hungry.

Robert enjoyed many years of retirement at his beloved Shell Point Community on the Sapelo River. He was always happiest when on the water or enjoying the company of family and friends. He will be truly missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter and son-in-law, Karyn & Loyd Sharp; and brother and sister-in-law, Langdon & Sherrian Galletta.

He is survived by his loving wife, LaTrelle Hubbard Galletta; son and daughter-in-law, Robert Jr. & Becky Galletta; daughters and sons-in-law, Theresa Galletta & David Fincher and Joan Galletta & Michael Southerland; sister and brother-in-law, Beverly & Joseph Stuckey; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Friday, October 4, 2024 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Baker McCullough Funeral Home, Hodgson Memorial Chapel (7415 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah, GA 31406). .

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Baker McCullough Funeral Home.

Interment will follow on Monday at 11:00am at Bonaventure Cemetery. The family will meet at 10:15 a.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024 at Baker McCullough Funeral Home, Hodgson Memorial Chapel to go in a procession to Mr. Galletta's final resting place.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Robert's honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or Castaways Pet Rescue (www.castawayspetrescue.org); two organizations dear to his heart.