The De La Salle College community in Malta is mourning the reported passing of Brother Edward Galea, a revered educator and religious brother whose extraordinary life of service spanned more than eight decades. Brother Edward died at the age of 102, leaving behind a remarkable legacy shaped by education, faith, mentorship and an enduring commitment to generations of students.

Born Anthony Galea in Żabbar on August 16, 1924, Brother Edward began his religious journey as a young man. In May 1939, he left Malta for France with other young aspirants to continue his religious studies. His arrival in France coincided with the beginning of the Second World War, placing his early years of formation against an extraordinary historical backdrop.

During the Nazi occupation of France, Brother Edward and two other Maltese students faced danger because they held British passports. German officers came to the school where they were staying looking for them. The school’s director managed to convince the officers that the young men had already left, giving them an opportunity to escape before they could be found. Brother Edward later continued his studies and teaching preparation before returning to Malta after the war.

In 1945, he returned to Malta and began the long educational mission that would define his life. Over the decades, he held numerous positions at De La Salle College, including director, deputy head of the junior school, sixth-year master and director of novices. He also served as a teacher and mentor, helping shape the lives of generations of young people.

Although Brother Edward carried significant administrative responsibilities throughout his career, teaching remained particularly close to his heart. In an interview marking his 100th birthday in 2024, he spoke about his passion for education and expressed his wish to remain connected with the school for as long as possible.

Remarkably, reaching the age of 100 did not mean stepping away from the school community. Brother Edward continued attending De La Salle College, joining students for morning prayers, explaining the Gospel and occasionally standing in for teachers who were absent. His continued presence made him a living connection between generations of students and educators.

His contribution to Maltese education and the Lasallian mission was formally recognised in 2022, when he received the Medal for Service to the Republic. Government records described his decades of teaching and administrative service at De La Salle College, while his work as a mentor continued to influence students well into his later years.

Brother Edward also became known for having taught multiple generations within the same families. Students who once sat in his classrooms later saw their own children and grandchildren pass through the college, creating an unusual and lasting connection between one educator and generations of Maltese families.

His 102nd birthday was celebrated on August 16, 2026, with members of the Lasallian community recognising his humility, quiet strength and continued commitment to the mission of the school. Only weeks later, news of his death brought an outpouring of remembrance from former students, colleagues and members of the wider community.

Among those paying tribute was photojournalist Darrin Zammit Lupi, himself a former De La Salle student. He described Brother Edward as an important influence in his upbringing and education, reflecting the profound impact the educator had on countless students throughout his career.

The story of Brother Edward Galea’s life is therefore closely intertwined with the history of De La Salle College and Malta’s educational community. From his difficult wartime experiences in France to more than 80 years of teaching, administration, prayer and mentorship, his life reflected a sustained commitment to serving others.

For the many students, families, educators and Brothers who knew him, his passing marks the loss of a deeply respected figure whose influence extended far beyond the classroom. His legacy will continue through the generations of students he taught, encouraged and guided, as well as through the Lasallian values of faith, service and education that defined his remarkable life.