Willie Galaher

Willie C. Galaher

Laurel

Willie was born in Martin, MS at the home of her grandparents and namesake, Willie Clay.She was the first of seven children born to James Vardaman and Lola Clay.Her childhood was spent in Meridian until moving to Collinsville, MS as a teenager where she became the editor of the first Year Book to be published at Collinsville High School. She met the love of her life, Russell Alward Galaher at the age of 15 on August 28, 1946 at a local church party. The two were married in Meridian and moved north where Russell attended Chiropractor school before moving to Laurel MS in 1958 where they raised their five children. Appreciated by her family as a teacher and loving mother, Willie is remembered for her love of the arts.

She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Dr. Russell A Galaher; her children, Gail Smith (Don), Gary Russell Galaher, Gregory Charles Galaher (Missie), Gwen Deakle (John), and Dr. Geoffrey Lamar Galaher (Dr. Chris).Willie was affectionately referred to as "Nan" by her 15 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2015 at St John's Episcopal Church in Laurel, MS. Visitation begins at 10:00 am in the Chapel followed by the memorial service at 11:30 am in the church sanctuary.

Local arrangements are under the direction Laird Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in her memory to St. John's Day School, 520 North 5th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.