Robert J McGettigan

Robert John McGettigan, often referred to as Bo or Bob, 87, of Jeffersonville, PA, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, in his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 2nd, 1938, in Norristown, PA, Bob was a devoted husband to the late Frances and a loving father to Michael and Colleen.   

Son of the late Lillian and Edward McGettigan, Bob now joins his parents and siblings, Jim, Patricia, and Lillian, as he begins his eternal life with his beloved wife and family.

Bob is survived and deeply missed by his younger brother, Richard (Dick) McGettigan; his son Michael and daughter-in-law Staci; his daughter Colleen and her life partner, Kirsten Ullmann; and his four cherished grandchildren—Brooke, Madison, Kory, and Connor—who brought him endless joy.

Bob met his wife, Frances, at Danny’s Diner in Bridgeport, PA, and they married on November 9th, 1963. He often shared stories of their early dates, picking her up from West Chester University, where she was studying to become a teacher. The two were married for 57 years.

Bob lived a full life and worked hard to support his family, his community, and his country. Bob served his country with honor in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963, followed by service in the Army Reserve from 1963 to 1967. His career as a proud union truck driver allowed him to provide a strong foundation for his loved ones. He dedicated countless hours to serving his community, first as a volunteer with the Norristown Fire Department from a young age, and later with the Jefferson Fire Company, which he joined in 1964. Over the years, Bob served in many capacities, including Fire Chief from 1973 to 1997. His leadership and commitment left a lasting impact on all who served alongside him. 

Bo was never one to sit still, and retirement did little to change that. He found joy in spending time with his longtime friends from the fire company, where lively conversations often turned into attempts to solve the world’s problems. True to his energetic nature, Bo also purchased the Valley Forge Laundromat as a post-retirement hobby. He and his son, Michael, managed it together, creating a trove of memorable and often hilarious stories along the way.

Bo was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren, and nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with them. Whether it was a family dinner, a birthday party, or a holiday celebration, Bo’s presence always brought warmth, laughter, and love to the occasion. 

Bo also had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. In his early years, he was often found playing in the creek, fishing, trapping, or bringing home frogs, to which his mother strongly opposed. His love for the outdoors carried into his adulthood, where he enjoyed running and riding his bike through Valley Forge Park. At home, Bo enjoyed tending to his garden, where he grew the best tomatoes and peppers, often giving these away to friends and family. Bo’s grandchildren will always cherish the memory of growing strawberries by his side-a simple joy rooted in the garden he planted just for them. 

The family finds comfort in knowing that Bo’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories they will cherish forever.

Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. 

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