John Donald Galligan

GALLIGAN

John Donald GALLIGAN "Jack"

John Donald Galligan "Jack", of Little Compton, RI, October 9, 1932 - June 24, 2022.



Jack was born and raised in Washington, D.C., the eldest of three children of D.C. natives Joseph Donald and Mary (Flaherty) Galligan. Jack grew up in Brookland, in a close-knit community that included his cousins and grandparents. He graduated from Gonzaga College High School and went on to study chemistry at Georgetown University and Manhattan College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. He conducted research at Emory University and at the Catholic University of America and began his career with Harris Research Laboratories, which merged with Gillette.



While in New York, he met Audrey Anastasia Field, a young school teacher. The two married on December 27, 1958, and raised five children in Washington, DC, Weston, Massachusetts, and Little Compton, Rhode Island. They had a unique approach to educating their children that included trans-continental train trips, first-hand exposure to civil unrest, camping around western Europe and a rough border crossing into Hungary in 1971. Jack was a natural parent, always ready with patient explanations or demonstrations on everything from algebra to philosophy to car mechanics. Jack and Audrey greatly enjoyed hosting many visitors and gatherings of friends and family in their lively home over the years.



At Gillette, Jack's work ranged from physical organic chemistry for shampoo and other personal care products to ceramics, metallurgy, and razor blades. He earned several patents for Gillette for his innovations. As Jack moved into executive positions, he kept his office adjacent to the laboratory, close to the bench and his team, who appreciated his skillful blend of encouragement and technical guidance. He led a very satisfying and productive career at Gillette that culminated in his role as Vice President of Research and Development.



In his retirement, Jack monitored coastal birds, judged science fairs, and continued his life-long habit of tinkering and home maintenance projects. Jack and Audrey spent those many years enjoying the warmth of Amelia Island, Florida over the winters, traveling intercontinentally, and delighting in the company of their family, and many cherished friends.



While Jack's last years have been challenging due to his sudden role as caretaker to Audrey after she suffered a traumatic fall, and his own progressive dementia, Audrey and Jack spent their last months of life together in the same nursing home. Through this time, there have been many beautiful moments when they sat holding hands, calmly aware of each other's presence and enduring love.



Jack was predeceased by his sister Mary Margaret (Meg) Galligan of Hagerstown, MD, and is survived by his brother Carl Galligan (Louise) of Hagerstown, MD. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Audrey Galligan; and his five children, Martin Galligan (Cathy) of Carlisle, MA, Teddi Ann Galligan (David Diggs) of Washington, DC, Monica Galligan (James McCarron) of Monterey, CA and Donegal, Ireland, Thomas Galligan (Sarah Baily) of RI, and Charlie Galligan (Kerry Crane) of Bristol, RI; as well as many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and one great grandchild.



Calling hours will be held at Smith Funeral Home at 8 Schoolhouse Rd., Warren, RI on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the same location on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Burial is scheduled for Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at 1 p.m. at Linwood Cemetery, 190 Boston Post Road Bypass Weston, Massachusetts.



In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Save the Bay Narragansett Bay

https://www.savebay.org/.