Kathleen Gallagher

Our hearts ache to announce that Kathleen Gallagher, 95, passed away on August 19, 2025.

Kathleen, even at 95, was a binding force of our family and will be greatly missed. She was a loving, loyal, and supportive wife, mother, and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rose, and her siblings, Mary Elizabeth, Rose Anne, Rita, Bernadette, Pat, John Joe, Frank, and Eddie. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, John, and devoted son, Brian. She is survived by her daughter, Noreen Stevens, and her husband, James; her daughter, Rose Marie Burns, and her husband, Robert; a grandson, Trevor, and his wife, Kathy; a granddaughter, Samantha Stevens, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Kathleen, one of nine children born on a farm in Ireland, had a wonderful childhood. She spoke often of her adventures and of the banshees, ghosts, and fairies. From a young age, her parents instilled in her a deep faith in God that remained with her the rest of her life. That faith allowed her to meet many challenges and push through life's difficulties.

At only 14 years old, she left home and went to work as a nanny in the north of Ireland. At 19, she immigrated to the United States, where she stayed with her uncle Pat and worked as a maid. Her sister Rita arranged for Kathleen to meet John Gallagher, the brother of her friend. Helen, at a USO dance. They started as dance partners that night and went on to become partners in life. Kathleen and John lived most of their lives in New York and New Jersey with their children Brian, Noreen, and Rose Marie. Kathleen was an amazing mother, a great listener, and could be counted on for common sense advice, often over a cup of tea.

When it came time for retirement, John and Kathleen fell in love with Marco Island, Florida, and spent many happy years there walking the beaches and streets. Even with the crushing loss of her husband after 48 years of marriage, Kathleen continued to walk all over Marco, prompting some to call her "The Walker." She was truly happy on Marco Island!

Even though we are brokenhearted at her passing, we will be comforted to know that her ashes will be reunited with John and Brian for eternity here in Marco Island. We grieve her loss but also know that John and Brian are rejoicing that she has joined them in Heaven.

A funeral mass will be held at San Marco Catholic Church on Friday, August 29, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to her favorite charity, the St. Jude’s Society, would be appreciated.