Amy Gallagher Obituary

Age, 26, of Granby Colorado, passed away Wednesday, November 28, 2007. Amy was born November 13, 1981 in Hackensack NJ; grew up in Orlando, FL. She graduated from University High School in 2000. Received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rollins College in 2004. Amy moved to Colorado in 2004, worked 2 years at a behavior center, touching troubled teens. September 2007 she moved to Granby, Colorado where she taught English at Middle Park High School. She loved the Colorado mountains where she enjoyed hiking, rock climbing, and snow boarding. She went from the sandy beaches of Florida to the majestic mountains of Colorado and loved it all. Amy is survived by her mother Anna Gallagher of Orlando, and father John Gallagher of Baltimore, MD; sister Erin Gallagher; and niece Kyra Gallagher both of Orlando; beloved boyfriend Nate Thomas of Summit County; and numerous relatives in New England and Mid Atlantic states. Funeral Services for Amy will be held 2:00 pm Saturday, December 8, 2007 at Faith Assembly of God Church (2008 North Goldenrod Road, Orlando) with Pastor Carl Stephens and Pastor Phil Waisanen officiating. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be Thursday & Friday evening from 6-8 PM at the funeral home. Services entrusted to Collison Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Howell Branch Chapel, 3806 Howell Branch Rd, Winter Park, FL (407) 678-4500.

Published by Boston Globe on Dec. 5, 2007.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Amy Gallagher

Sponsored by Mom.

Not sure what to say?





Wow... Such vivid memories of you from middle school days! Such an amazing being inside and out gone way too soon... saddened to hear of her passing..

CHRISTINA BERMUDEZ

January 25, 2020

Today a friend from high school paid a beautiful tribute to their good friend who passed away. As I took a closer look at this photo I suddenly realized that I too knew them. Although I didn't know Amy very well, I was blessed to have had a number of interactions w/ her in track at University High School. I was not that good at track but she made me feel like I belonged on the team. I know this tragic day happened back in 2007 but just wanted to write a quick note about her positive impact on my life. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Anyone who knew Amy has a void in their heart. We miss the physical presence of Amy but understand that she is pain free & dancing w/ the angels & w/ her family & friends that have passed before her. Who am I kidding. I promised a short message but that's just not possible. She was so kind...to everyone. Had a beautiful & contagious smile. She made others around her happy. She had a true gift. In fact she had many gifts. She left us way too soon but we must focus on the fact that she is celebrating life upstairs w/ our heavenly father. The things Amy was able to accomplish in such little time is truly Amazing! to me. Eternal life where there is nothing but love. That's what I imagine heaven is like. I can see you doing all sorts of crazy adventures up there. Thank you for being you. Thank you for sharing God's love. Until we meet again.

Love,
Joshua

Joshua Hopkins

March 12, 2015

Im so very sorry for everyones loss. When I found out what happened I couldn't believe it..in some ways I still can't but her memory and spirit will live forever. I met amy when I was only 8 years old and we became great friends and she was always there to make me smile. I think of her often and hope that one day fate brings us together again, my prayers and good wishes to her family and loved ones...A.G. Forever.

Christopher Brown

May 1, 2012

i still have amy's picture up where i can see her everyday. i will add my prayers to yours that you may find a peaceful place to settle until your path joins hers someday. a mother should never have to grieve for their child. i only met you at the orlando service but please accept my continued heartfelt caring. be strong tomorrow, let go of the anguish today. it will relieve the pressure for now. ami- chris kirks mom.

ami zuclich

January 2, 2012

Dearest Amy,
It is now 2012 and still very difficult to face reality that I can't see you,talk to you or be your Mom. Time is still a blessing and a curse . You would tell me that in would be cathartic to write to you so I am.I miss sharing your earthly life with you and all the dreams,struggles and joy the you found in life. I don't go to the cemetery cause it's to hard to believe. This past fall was the most difficult . Can you pray for your mom that I can be light hearted and enjoy what God has before me until we see each other again. All my love Mom

Anna Gallagher

January 1, 2012

Dearsest Amy,
Not a day goes by without you appearing in my heart. Time moves quickly and then so slowly,that I can't wait to be reunited with you. You have two beautiful neices, that God has filled our lives up with and Blessed your sister Erin with motherhood. I had once written when I was a new mom the it took up a lot of emotions that weren't so positive like tiresome, aggravating and a couple of others like that but I remember the last line so meaningful "Like falling in Love again" Barry and I went to Colorado to the accident site and gave you flowers and tears. I know by God's promises that you are so beautiful and happy....but that doesn't make me any less sad.
Love you,
Mom

Mom

August 20, 2010

Dearest Family and Friends,
I never had the privilege of knowing Amy directly.I have met a few of her close friends recently, and of course her wonderful, and beautiful mother, Anna, who characterizes Amy so well in her own walk through life.
While in Colorado, recently on the top of Long's Peak, I sat and prayed about how all of this came to be. I asked God to give me the guidance to help whomever, and wherever I could in this situation.
I believe that "the leaf doesn't fall far from the tree". I don't know who said it first, but with all of the facts I've been given, the testimonials, coupled with the wonderfulness, and sweet spirit of Amy's mother; that she was a huge burning light of life for all to witness.
I shall forever be full of appreciation for the opportunity to share in her sweet memory, through the beautiful grace of Anna, Erin, Kyra, and friends. I know as my Lord has promised, that one day we will all gather in harmony and love, with Amy by our side.
Meanwhile; there is another smiling, vivid Angel to watch over us; and to help us celebrate her life here on Earth, as we prepare to join her in Heaven. What an inspiration for us all to live by!

Barry Snyder

November 30, 2008

Amy, you are missed. So many people got to know you during your short and full life. Family loved you dearly; your special smile and funny quick wit always made me anxious for your arrival at any family gathering.
You touched many; family, of course, school friend in High School, College and as a teacher. The photos that I was honored to see touched my heart and made me realize your wonderful personality, your kindness, your ability to make everyone feel at easy and blesse to have known you. The Herman and Gallagher families miss you and are better to have known you and to be apart of our collective families during your "Much to short life".

Uncle Paul Herman

November 30, 2008

The days come and go. Life as we each live it moves forward. Our minutes are filled with daily chores, family obligations and work responsibilities. At times, we tend to procrastinate, postpone or just put off doing certain things. We are planning holiday gatherings with family and friends. Some of us are looking ahead in both concern and cautious anticipation to the New Year.

Yes, Life continues for each of us and we get caught up in it. Carried along, riding the daily wave.

And then, unexpectedly... a cherished part of the past shines through. It's a warm heartfelt emotion tinged with a hollow ache. It can creep in as a subtle thought, nudging itself to the front or an invisible smack on our brain...saying "Helloooo, is there any body in there?"

It is a reminder to stop and embrace, then smile and let go. Amy's beautiful smile, her zest for adventure, her care and love of others... wraps around our soul.

It is when we reflect back that we look ahead with a better attitude. We know that each day ahead has a purpose and sometimes life gets in the way of really living it fully.

Let's resolve to not let everyday life get in the way of truly living. Amy showed us that. She is missed so much, by so many. Her smile and beauty inside and out, is a gift she gave unconditionally. I am forever grateful for the love and friendship she gave to my family. She taught each of us. I pray to follow her example.

Ami Z. (Chris's mom)

November 30, 2008

November 21, 2008

November 21, 2008

Amy Gallagher was a great teacher and an amazing person. She made English class such an enjoyment and life seems to be missing something without her smile. She taught us more than just grammer and spelling, she showed us how to live life to its fullest and became a hero to so many. Though its almost been a year since her passing she is still greatly missed. Her smile always lit up the room and is something that can never be forgotten.

November 21, 2008

Amy,
It has taken me a long time to get to this point when I can actually write down what I want to say to you instead of saying it my head or sending it in a prayer. Writing it down seems so final and so real, and I hate that, but I have to say these things. The first thing I have to say to you is thank you. You were an amazing person, and I was so lucky to be able to call you my friend. Even when you were hundreds of miles away, you had such a way of making me feel like you were right beside me every time we talked. You and I didn’t see each other often in the last few years, and we didn’t talk every day, but you always seemed so invested in every one of our interactions. I miss the way you made me feel so valued and the way you always let me be exactly who I was. Thank you for letting me be a part of your wonderful life.
I also want you to know that I still think about you every single day. I think about you when I’m driving down the road alone, and I have to stop myself from trying to call you or text you the way I used to. I still have your number in my phone. I think about you when I hold my baby niece in my arms and I feel that overwhelming love that you felt for Kyra (I know you’ll watch her grow, but I wish so much she could interact with you). And of course I think about you when I talk to Nate, Adge, Anna, and Erin, or hear about how Julie is or what your dad is up to. My heart aches for them, because you were such a huge part of each of their lives. Really, you were such a big part of the lives of everyone you knew.
Sometimes, I think about our last conversation and how you had decided you were meant to become a counselor, and I laughed for days afterward because you finally caught on to what the rest of us already knew. You were already a counselor to everyone in your life. I think about that a lot when I’m working. Each time I have a counseling session with a teen that’s defensive or angry or so hurt by the world that they can barely stand it, I find myself asking “What would Amy say right now? How would Amy reach this child?” You knew how to reach people.
I know that you’re still guiding us all from time to time, because so many times when I think of you, I feel you here. You always seem to come through and speak to my heart at the times I need you most. It brings me great comfort to get those messages and know that you’re still around, and I know that I’ll get to see you again someday. I’m not in any rush to leave this earth, but when I do, I will be overjoyed to see you greeting me on the other side. I imagine you taking me snowboarding in the clouds, hiking through the stars, or doing some other combination of crazy and amazing things that you know I’d never have the guts or confidence to try on my own. I look forward to our future adventures, but until then, I will savor every thought and cherish every memory of you. I will love you always.
See you later!
Heather Randall

Heather Randall

August 9, 2008

Hey Ames,
The only way that I know how to write this is if I am talking to you. That's what I'm used to. I've yet to say goodbye to you, Ames, yet to admit that you're gone. I'm still hanging on to the excuse that my mind has made up... that we're just out of touch for now... that it's just been too long since we got together and caught up with each other. I look at your pictures all the time. There is one above my desk at work, one in my bedroom, several all through my house. I still read the note you stuck in the ceramic penguin that you gave me before you moved to colorado. I go to your myspace page. I read emails you had sent me, birthday cards. I still refer back to advice you gave me, laugh at things you said, or memories we shared. I love that in many of the pictures I have of you, I can remember the day we shopped for the outfit you were wearing, or i can think back on things we talked about that day. I laugh and I cry and miss you and I cannot make myself believe that you aren't here with us anymore.
When Nate called me that morning to tell me, you know why I thought he was calling? I thought he'd just proposed to you. That was the phonecall I wanted that morning. That was what I wanted to hear, and I am sure that is what he wished he had to tell. We all miss you so much, Amy.
I'm so happy that you got to meet Kyra and that she got to meet you, too. She's sweet and smart and beautiful. I loved when you called me the night you met her and you said "Now I know what you're talking about!! I just love her. I never want to let her out of my arms." You had told me about taking her with you to the grocery store and just holding her and staring at her. Your mom says Kyra is like you were as a baby. I think that's really beautiful.
A while back Kyra, your mom, Erin, Heather, Ryan, Michelle and I got together at 310 for dinner. It was really good for all of us. We got to talk and be with each other and remember you. You're mom is so strong. She encouraged us to be happy for you and to look forward to the time when we will get to be with you again. We all found that was a good way to think about things.
Heather and I are planning to take her to the Keys next time we make that trip. Wouldn't she love it?
We all still keep in touch with Nate. He's really missing you, too. And he's taking really good care of Shay. It's so nice that they have each other out there.
I think if anything has changed in the last seven months, it is that we are all learning how to be without you. We all depended on you a lot. You were just a completely stable force and such a comfort to all of us.
I think we've all also really learned a lot about how to live by your example. You are nothing but love and strength and you experienced so much, traveled many places, accomplished many things, and touched so many lives. The best way that I've ever found to explain you is just effortlessly beautiful, in every way. I loved to laugh with you and cry with you and also to learn from you. I continue to do all of those things.
So much love, Adge

Adrianne Benso

June 20, 2008

When I met Amy in Orlando, FL, I believe we were both at the height of searching for who we were. She offered such a new perspective on life-I know that she helped me become who I am today. The best memories I have of her are simple things, like sitting in our apartment dressing up and being silly, writing down funny and introspective quotes we heard, and watching the waves. I still of her every time I'm at the ocean and will love her always.

Britt Ritter

June 20, 2008

Amy and I shared a few classes through out high school! I remember her and will always remember her as one of the kindest people that I've had the pleasure of knowing. We Served on the student council together and Amy alway put 110% into every project we were working on at the time. My heart and prayers got out to the Gallagher family! You have a wonderful Daughter and she will be missed.

Erica Willard (Formerly Backes

May 21, 2008

Amy
I miss you everyday. The vivid memories I have are of your sweet baby face. The crazy bugger bonnet we made to keep the mosquitoes from biting in R.I.. I remember the silly times you made me laugh. How you trusted me for all your needs as a young child. I am so proud of you. The inspiriation you gave to others freely and without judgement just completes the wonderful woman you became. I miss you as I know Nate,Julie and all the lives you touched do everyday. Your strengh and vitality for life doing adventerous things will carry me through. Can't wait to see you again in God's timing. What a wonderful moment that will be ... I love you Mom

Anna Gallagher

February 10, 2008

Dear Anna,
Received the tragic news from your brother Ed, this morning.
Know one knows better than I do
of what you are going through at this time.
May the knowledge that she is with God be a comfort to all.

Sincere sympathy,
Claire Harvey & Family
Dick Freeman & Family

Claire Harvey

December 10, 2007

Amy and I spent countless time together and became very close, very quickly. I will miss her always. It is hard to write a reflection and include the many things you want to say. I think for now that -thank you, Amy- will have to do.

Chris Kirk

December 10, 2007

From the Rollins Child Development Center to the YMCA, you touched everyone in my family and we will be forever grateful that we knew Amy. May her family's pain be made somewhat bearable knowing that she was loved by so many.

The Allports

December 9, 2007

I offer the Waugh family's sincerest condolences to the Gallagher family on its tragic loss. We know that she will be missed by all who knew her.

Not many memories from Kindergarten remain for me, but the ones that do are all extremely vivid, as if they were yesterday, and all involve Amy. She was a wonderful friend who I couldn't resist trying to talk to during naptime (a big no-no) because she was so fun and smart. The reward of talking with Amy was always better than the disciplinary action I got. She also always told me when I was wrong, no matter how much I didn't want to hear it.

Judging from others' comments here, it seems that even while she grew, that inner core of joy and strength remained immutable.

Christian Waugh

December 9, 2007

An angel while on earth, and now your guardian angel in heaven.

Marguerite Keefe

December 8, 2007

This is a time when words have little comfort. However, Jack and I want you to know your loss is deeply felt and we hope your memories of Amy will help heal the emptiness and sadness. Continue to have faith and stay strong. Celebrate her life and love as time allows the healing. God Bless.

Frances Caulfield

December 8, 2007

Mrs. and Mr. Gallagher your daughter and I use to dance together in
Orlando,Fl. I extend my condolences to you both for your loss.

Kristen Bowden

December 7, 2007

Amy was a person that brought light to my life in a job where it was hard to remain positive. I am blessed to have had the short time that I did with Amy and I will charish all of it for the rest of my life. Love and miss you.

Mo Johnson

December 7, 2007

I just thought of a memory of Amy and wanted to share it. I have many memories, but, I thought this one would make everyone laugh. Amy and I have known each other since elementary school. In middle school she stayed at my house, we were being silly at home with a sleepover. She put my popples sleeping bag on her head and was dancing around my room. I lauged so hard I fell off the bed and was crying. All we ever did was laugh so hard we cried. I love you Amy with everything inside me and will you miss you forever and always. I am so sad that you won't be here with us but, I will continuously thank God for allowing you to be one of the angels that watches over me every day. I will miss you always!

April Cason (formerly Fountain

December 7, 2007

Anna our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at such a terrible time. May God bring you strength.

The Cray Family
Brian, Brenda, Kevin, Andrew & Alyssa

December 6, 2007

Amy, our whole family loves you very much. You were such an important member of our family for so long. Amy, If I had a flower for every time you made me smile, I would have a garden of flowers to walk in forever. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to her family.We Love you Amy. Connie, Jerry, Eddie Josh, Brennan, Jessica and Sebastian

Connie Foss

December 6, 2007

Amy looked at life with a vision that was truly a blessing. She grabbed everyday and made the best of it, not only for herself but for everyone she came in contact with. Amy was a ray of sunshine, and will truly be missed by all.

Mac and Louriann from

December 5, 2007

My prayers go out to the family during this time. Amy was an absolutely amazing person and she will be forever missed by anyone that ever came in contact with her. She will always remain in our hearts.

Evelyn Knewasser

December 5, 2007

I just heard that you have joined the angels. I am so saddened. I have been thinking heavily about you for two years. I am not sure what happened or why God chose you but, I know he chose you to do his work and watch all of us left here on earth. I want to express my deepest sympathies to your family, who were at one time my family as well. I love you all very much and if there is anything I can ever do to help at all, please let me know.

April Cason (former Fountain)

December 5, 2007

Everyone who knew Amy, knows that she lived every day to its absolute fullest. Let every memory of her be a constant reminder to do the same. Thank you, Amy, for all you taught me.

Rachel (Volinski) Neuhaus

December 5, 2007

Amy, a beautiful person inside and out. We were blessed to have known her, for her presence brought joy and pride to those around her. She inspired those who knew her and accomplished more in her 26 years than most can claim well into old age. May the aches in your hearts be eased by the knowledge of the positive light we carry now inside because of Amy.

Ami Zuclich (Mom to Chris Kirk)

December 5, 2007

Miss you Amy!

Shannon Schoepflin

December 5, 2007

Amy will never be forgotten, she is a wonderful free spirit that lives inside each of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

Chris & Ann Bailey

December 5, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Sherise/Debra Bayley

December 5, 2007

Showing 1 - 36 of 36 results

Make a Donation
in Amy Gallagher's name

Memorial Events
for Amy Gallagher

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Amy's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Amy Gallagher's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more