Raffaletta Sue Gallagher

Raffaletta Sue Murphy Gallagher-known affectionately as Susie-passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, surrounded by family. A native of Harrison, Arkansas, Susie graduated from Harrison High School in 1959 before embarking on a lifelong journey rooted in family, creativity, and service.

Shortly after graduation, Susie moved to Southern California, where she began her career as a fashion model for the iconic I. Magnin & Company and Bullock's Wilshire while attending Santa Monica City College. In 1964, she married Lawrence James Gallagher in Santa Monica. Together, they raised three children and built a home filled with love, laughter, and purpose. Lawrence preceded her in death in 2011 after 46 years of marriage.

Once her children were older, Susie returned to school at the UCLA School of Interior Design. She went on to become a Certified Interior Designer and a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), launching a design career that spanned more than 25 years. Her portfolio included luxury high-rise residences, hotels, medical offices, and private homes, with her work featured in several industry publications.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susie was deeply committed to philanthropy. She was a devoted member of the Assistance League and an active parishioner of the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Arcadia, California, where she and her family lived for 35 years. She was also a passionate supporter of music education, volunteering and fundraising for youth programs through the Philharmonic Society of Orange County. In retirement, she and her husband settled in Newport Beach, spending cherished years on Balboa Island.

Susie was known for her elegance, warmth, and deep love for her family. She is survived by her three children: James Gallagher and his wife, Andrea; Deborah Sekerka and her husband, Patrick; and Shannon Prior and her husband, Gideon. She was the beloved grandmother of Cassidy Gallagher, Brandon Gallagher, Chloe Sekerka, Colin Sekerka, Charlotte Sekerka, Sophia Prior, Aidan Prior, and Jack Prior. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Jameson.

Susie often spoke of her deep gratitude for her roots in Harrison, Arkansas, calling her hometown "the very foundation of who I am." A fifth-generation native, she carried that pride with her throughout her life and into every space she graced.

She will be remembered for her generous spirit, impeccable taste, unwavering faith, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

A celebration of life is planned for September 7, 2025.