Andy Gallagher

Andrew "Andy" Oakley Gallagher, 64, of Normandy, Tennessee, passed away on December 12, 2025 at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville after a tough battle with cancer. He was born on May 2, 1961 in Winchester, TN to the late Phyllis and Bernie Gallagher.
Andrew received a Bachelor of Science in Soil Science from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville and a Masters in Science in Soils Science from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He also received a Radiologic Technologist Degree from FORTIS Institute in Nashville, Tennessee. Andy started Gallagher Soils Consulting and worked as a soils consultant for almost 32 years, which allowed him to spend most of his time "at the office" out in nature where he preferred to be. A true outdoorsman, he also enjoyed riding motorcycles, waterskiing, stargazing, shooting guns at the range, and taking his dogs to the lake. He was a faithful Catholic, frequent teller of dad jokes, and classic rock aficionado.
He married the love of his life and best friend, Teri Gallagher, on December 5, 1992. He always said he felt it was "destiny" that they met. They raised three daughters together: Hannah Elizabeth Gallagher, of Saint Louis, MO (fiancé: Ian Rothbarth); Madeline Claire Gallagher, of Johnson City, TN; and Katherine Abigail Gallagher, of Normandy, TN. A devoted husband and father for over 33 years, Andy dove into various roles like soccer coach, AAU basketball dad, homework tutor, horse show helper, lacrosse superfan, and more with equal enthusiasm. His greatest legacy was the unwavering love and support that he poured into his family. Known for his quick smile, good humor, and gracious spirit, Andy was a friend to many and well-loved by all.
Andy did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values, incredible patience, and prioritized making time to help others. He was a wonderful listener with a curious mind, always asking insightful questions and making you feel heard and valued no matter how mundane your concern may have been. He was quick to remind you that "this too shall pass" and that sometimes you just have to "let the rough end drag and the slick end slide," which was his way of saying "you've got this." His knack for keeping things in perspective and his unfailing optimism in the face of adversity were a gift to all those who knew him. His legacy will carry on forever reminding us not to sweat the small stuff (and as he often reminded us, it's almost all small stuff) and to always prioritize what truly matters – faith, family, and friends.
In addition to his parents, Andy was preceded in death by two brothers, Bill and Mickey Gallagher. He is survived by his wife and three daughters, as well as two sisters, Sue Welch and Margie Gallagher, and one brother, David Gallagher. He also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 17th at 11:00 AM at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Decherd, TN. Burial will follow at Franklin Memorial Gardens in Winchester, TN. Friends and family may visit Tuesday, December 16th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Kilgore Funeral Home, 215 Mitchell Blvd, Tullahoma, TN 37388. Pallbearers will be Knox Garner, Tracy McDonald, Dave Basham, Larry Prince, Dylan Welch, and Wendell Carter. Honorary pallbearers will be Pat Dykes, Ian Rothbarth, and Matt Rose.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to Animal Harbor in Winchester, TN by visiting animalharbor.org. or Friends Of Animals Lynchburg by visiting friendsofanimalslynchburgtn.org. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his spirit of love, patience, and optimism in all that we do.