Photo courtesy of Jagers and Sons Funeral Home
Mar 3, 1948 - Oct 12, 2020 (Age 72)
Seamus was the man with whom I came of age. He possessed as quick wit, a gentle heart, a brilliant mind. He gave me the most precious gift of my life, our son, Jude. Seamus opened the world for me. My heart can never close the chapter of his life. His love and spirit live on eternally.
Jude’s Mother
January 29, 2021 | Grandparent
From by chance seeing Seamus shooting baskets alone in a school yard to meeting Seamus and spending time with him, we are grateful to have a friendship that we will hold in our hearts forever. We love you.
Robin and Oreste
November 11, 2020
We sure have missed seeing Seamus coming in to OMG! Rotisserie to get salads and of course a chicken...for his dog! He sure loved his dog. We are so sorry for your loss, see you again Seamus!
May God bring comfort to all the family, especially your precious wife.
Marla Rutter and the staff at OMG! Rotisserie
Marla Rutter
October 19, 2020 | Athens, OH | Acquaintance
Always loved hearing his stories from the "old" days. He was always vibrant and up beat. Willing to help. Love seeing this picture that was used. It says so many things about him without saying a word. A good person that will truly be missed by money. Lots of Love my friend.
John Woods
October 19, 2020 | Malta, OH | Coworker
What a legacy! Seamus will be missed by so many people whose lives he touched.
Remy summed it up well!! Pop Pop will live on through him and his beloved Dana and three children. Bob and I send hugs and condolences to all the family.
Arlene Sheak
Arlene Sheak
October 18, 2020 | Gahanna, OH | Friend
Loved seeing Seamus' smiling face. What a special person. He could make anyone feel special too. See you on the other side. We'll dance a side-step.
Paulette Halliday
October 18, 2020 | ATHENS, OH | Coworker
The impact Seamus has on everyone who entered his world was unforgettable. His amazing heart touched us in a profound and loving way that will be eternally cherished. He had a gentleness that radiated caring, but you did not want to cross him. He was one of the good guys. One of our heroes that stood for peace and love among all people everywhere. We admired Seamus and love him so very much. Sending our deepest heartfelt wishes that the family can find comfort at this time of incredible...
Terry and Camp Campasano
October 18, 2020 | Friend
I will miss you and your bright smile, buddy.
Bernard Salzman
October 18, 2020 | Millfield, OH | Coworker
My deepest condolences to you and your family, Dana.
Michele Biddlestone
October 17, 2020 | Glouster, OH | Friend
Seamus “James” J. Galligan, age 72, died of complications from ALS on October 12, 2020 at his home in Athens, Ohio. He fought bravely.
Seamus was a scholar, an athlete, a military veteran with full disability as a result of his service, a 29-year public school teacher, a compassionate friend to his community, a provider, and a protector.
He is survived by his wife Dana Anderson, his three children, Jude Galligan (Amber), Alexis Lopatin, Eli Lopatin (Dina), and grandson, Remy Turcotte. Seamus was preceded in death by his parents Jim and Dorothy Galligan, his younger brother Patrick, and sister, Joan Lang.
After attending Father Judge High School in Northeast Philadelphia, where he played football and held a statewide track record for years, Seamus attended Temple University. As many young men from his neighborhood did, Seamus enlisted in the service, joining the Air Force and obtaining the rank of Captain.
Returning to finish college at Temple, he received a BA in English Literature, and a Master’s in Sociology. Moving to Pittsburgh, where son Jude was raised, he went on to receive his Master’s in Education, which led to a 29-year long career in the Pittsburgh public schools. His work with blind and visually-impaired students was among his most proud achievements, many of them still kept in touch with their beloved “Mr. G”.
Reading (often a book per day) was a particular passion, and Seamus’ Irish-Celtic heritage was always his interest and hallmark. He was a collector of antiques and art, and a true lover of music, especially folk and Celtic. And the man could dance!!! Oh, and beer, a true connoisseur.
Seamus was warm and empathetic, with an easy smile, and always a story to tell.
In the words of his seven-year old grandson, Remy, when asked what people should know about his PopPop, “People should know how much he loved all of us”. He was a truly loving husband, father, grandfather, and pet father (especially to his constant companion Brody). He loved his friends, and would want a special thanks to go to Willy Alexy for always being willing to help – and there has been a lot of help needed. And, he would want to thank Navaé Taylor for her strength and ability at the end, she is awesome.
In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate that donations be made to Friends of the Shelter Dogs in Athens, OH at https://www.fosdathens.com/.
Due to Covid-19, we will be delaying memorial services until they can be performed safely. When possible, we will be having a big old Irish wake and sharing lots of Guinness, Irish whiskey, and good memories.
Seamus would have also asked that people please vote, he was looking forward to a big Democratic win.
Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
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