Our classmate Kathleen Gallagher died very soon after she attended our class reunion. Her daughter Norie Kimber posted the sad news on Kathy’s Facebook page:
I am heartbroken to share the unexpected passing of my Mom, Kathleen Anne Gallagher, on August 24, 2025—just one week after we celebrated her 82nd birthday on August 17th.
She was my Mom and my Best Friend. As a mother and daughter pair, we shared a unique closeness as we navigated the ebbs and flows of life together. With both grace and wisdom, she encouraged me to keep moving forward and remained dedicated to helping me parent my boys with love and support, as we proudly watched them grow from little boys into the thoughtful and kind young men they are today. Forever my confidante, her guidance and comfort carried me through every season of my life.
She was a devoted and loving Grandma, always there for Rhys and Iestyn—present for every special moment and milestone in their lives, attending every game, school performance, and activity—always cheering them on, laughing with them, comforting them, and loving us all unconditionally.
She loved the beach, the water, animals, nature, and of course our family dogs. We shared so many adventures together—trips to experience the magic of Disney, the paradise of Hawaii, unforgettable journeys across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, and even fulfilling her lifelong dream of seeing the pyramids of Egypt. Our memories of these special times together are truly treasured. Always looking forward to the future, she was recently making plans for our next trip to Disneyland and returning to the beautiful beaches of Hawaii—and as she wished, the boys and I will go back to these places, bringing her in our hearts and knowing her spirit is with us.
Her faith was constant throughout her life. She knew and taught us that we are always surrounded by God’s ever-present love. She found strength in daily prayer, inspiration in her many books, and peace when reading the Daily Word. She demonstrated her faith and beliefs by touching so many hearts with her kind words, empathy, compassion, and friendship.
There are no words to express how much we loved my Mom or how deeply we’ll miss her. We pray that she is at peace, smiling, laughing, loving, and reunited with all her loved ones who passed before her (dogs and cats included). Though she may no longer be with us, her memory lives on in our hearts and the love she gave will continue to guide and comfort us, now and always.
We are so grateful for all the love, prayers, and support during this time.
Kathleen Anne Gallagher
August 17, 1943 – August 24, 2025
With love,
Norie, Rhys, and Iestyn