Joseph A. Gallagher
A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, October 28th, 11AM,
St. Anne Church in Blaine, Washington
Joseph A. Gallagher passed away peacefully during a beautiful sunset in Seattle, Washington on October 17th. He was a friend to all with God-given gifts and talents and a pocket full of olive wood Crosses from Jerusalem given to cheer many a sad or weary person.
After serving his country honourably in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, he went on to fresh fields after moving to Washington. His gentle soul led him from "First Sergeant" with "grown-ups" into the precious field of infant toddler care. He would appear in a nursery of teary babes and twenty minutes later everyone would be smiling and asleep.
He became an avid and passionate gardener, sharing seeds and plants with like-minded neighbors, and volunteered at the Blaine Senior Center. He joined the Ferndale School District's special education staff helping many children who never forgot him.
Joe was born a New Englander, growing up in a large family who loved to go fishin' together. He leaves behind his spouse Sandra, and siblings Rita, Michael, Cheryl and Brian; Alisa, Ellen, Christopher, Kimberly and their families; Uncle Al and Aunt Emily. His family in the U.K.: Rod and Sally David and family and Cathie Wilderbeest' and family. Uncle Bob and Aunt Barbara, Jean and family, Guenda and John, and many, many friends.
Joe was an extra-ordinary man of faith who will be deeply missed. We are assured if there are any wee cherubs in his new life they are already holding his hands.
Memories
From Ken Trupp
Joe's presence, ready smile, and positive attitude will be missed by his many friends at Blaine United church of Christ. Joe is now at peace with his God. Sandra is in our prayers.
From Nancy Michaud
I worked with Joe and Sandra at The Children's Center here in Maine. I really considered it an honor to work with such gifted people and continue to cherish their friendship. I will never forget Joe and his magical way with the infants and toddlers. We had little people from various backgrounds, but each child was treated with the same love and respect, and quickly became victims of one of Joe's unique gifts...his sense of humor. It was the cause of many a giggle, and had distracted many a tearful child, not to mention alleviating any stressors in the adult population.
He has, without a doubt, put a smile on so many faces...but, more importantly, in so many hearts. Whenever I think of Joe, I will smile and even giggle, as I remember him just being ...Joe. Thank you...until we meet again. XXX
From Sets Toliver
I met Joe through my neighbor, Juanita, another avid gardener. Joe lived on the other side of her backyard fence and so we had many talks and laughs. He had such a happy attitude and a smile on his face. We will miss him. "Yes, Joe, we at the Blaine UCC had the best food for our 'Thirst after Righteousnes'".
Our thoughts & prayers go out to Sondra and his family.
From Angela Castellano
I was deeply saddened to hear of Joe's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Sandra and his family.
Angela
Blaine Farmers Insurance
From Christ Episcop…
We will miss Joe at Christ Episcopal Church in Blaine. Our prayers are for his family and friends, as they grieve this loss of such a warm, faithful man. Joe was an inspiration to those he encountered, and we are blessed by having known him.
From Sally C Gibbs
Sandra you are in my thoughts and prayers. I remember Joe's love of children and he had many friends. See you soon my friend.
From Elizabeth Buonadonna
Joe was such a gift... a beautiful soul. I thank God for sharing him with us for a while, and I thank God that he has gone home, free from sickness and pain. We love you Joe and we know you'll be back at your old post, watching over our sweet little Isaac. Even though this time we won't be able to see you, we know you are there. To Sandra, we love you and will keep you in our prayers.
From Lori Lincoln
Sandra, Joe will be dearly missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
From Nazmin Ali
my 4yr loved Jo so much, met him every morning while going to work, Isaac still calls Jojo, will always be remembered and missed.
From The Priors
Joe was a good and kind neighbor and will be sorely missed for his many attributes, one being his self-proclaimed 'neighborhood watch'! Sadly we couldn't be at the funeral service as we were flying from Manchester, UK at that time. Sandra, you are in our prayers, Margaret and Bruce
From cathie rowntree
so sorry to hear of your sad loss Sandra,you are in my prayers.I remember Joe fondly although it's many years ago i last saw him.much love to you,Cathie xxx
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