James G Gallagher

James G Gallagher
Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather

LOWELL James G. Gallagher, 94, a beloved resident of the Belvedere section of Lowell, passed away peacefully at his home on June 1, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of the late Dorothea (Sandy) Gallagher, with whom he shared 30 years of marriage until her passing in 1981, and the cherished husband of the late Marjorie Hansen Gallagher, with whom he shared 26 years of marriage until her passing in 2012.

Born on November 19, 1928, James, known as Jim, was raised in the Acre section of Lowell. He was the cherished son of the late James J. Gallagher and Nora F. (Powers) Gallagher. Jim’s exceptional talent as a pitcher was evident during his time at Keith Academy, and he was awarded a full baseball scholarship to Providence College. In 1951, Jim enlisted in the Air Force, serving with honor for four years during the Korean War. He held the rank of Staff Sargeant upon his honorable discharge, and his service rendered him as a disabled veteran. Following his military service, Jim had a distinguished career, working in the Lowell and Dracut Post Offices, and eventually retiring in 1983 as Superintendent of Postal Operations.

Jim was a proud member of the Lowell Lodge of Elks, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Legion. He was an avid Red Sox fan, eagerly following their games during the spring training season in Fort Myers, Florida, where he spent his winters. Jim also found joy in cheering for the New England Patriots.

In his leisure time, Jim enjoyed tending to his yard and found solace while riding his John Deere Mower. He had a passion for pitching, playing horseshoes, engaging in pool games, and taking leisurely walks. Jim had a special affinity for animals, particularly his beloved cat Cappy, who often found a comfortable spot on his lap while he read the paper or watched TV.

Above all else, Jim’s greatest legacy was his family. He found immense happiness when his five children gathered with him on his birthday and Christmas and Father’s Day. He took great pride in his five children and their families.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Cynthia Sullivan and her husband, Thomas, of Amherst, NH; Mary Flaherty and her husband, Jay, of Tewksbury; Patricia Dokos and her husband, Richard, of Lowell; Jimmy Gallagher Jr. and his wife, Karen, of Lowell; and Michael Gallagher and his wife, Judy, of Lowell. Jim was affectionately known as “Gramps” or “Grampy” to his grandchildren: Courtney, Kelly, Patrick, Kerry, John, Lynne, Erin, Leah, Nicholas, Michael, and Liam. He is also survived by seven adoring great-grandchildren: Sean, Rylee, Nolan, Blaire, Tess, Grace, and James. Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was predeceased by his siblings: William J. Gallagher, Olive Leary, and Kathleen Gallagher. Jim also mourned the loss of his beloved grandson, Tommy Sullivan Jr.

In addition the family would like to thank the Help Private Duty, Beacon Hospice and Health Star Home Care for their loving and compassionate care to Jim in his final months.

You are invited to his calling hours on Monday June 5, 2023, from 4pm until 8pm at the MAHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 187 Nesmith Street, Lowell, MA 978-452-6361. On Tuesday, June 6, 2023, his funeral Mass will take place at Saint Patrick’s Church, 282 Suffolk Street, Lowell, at 10 am followed by procession to Saint Mary Cemetery, Tewksbury. In Lieu of flowers please make contributions in his memory to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Tribute Program, P.O. Box 1000 Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908 or to the MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844.

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