Geraldine M. Gallagher

Geraldine “Gerry” Marie Gallagher, 98, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 6:03 a.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.

Gerry was born January 21, 1926 in Galesburg, the daughter of Dewey F. and Myrtle L. (Nelson) Darrah. On September 6, 1947, Gerry was united in marriage to Daniel Patrick Gallagher at Corpus Christi Church in Galesburg. Their 63 year marriage brought two daughters, Patricia and Mary. Dan preceded her in death on December 22, 2010.

Gerry is survived by her two daughters, Patricia (Doug) Allensworth of East Galesburg, Illinois and Mary Polite of Hilton Head, South Carolina; four grandchildren; and twelve great grandchildren. Along with her husband and parents, Gerry was preceded by one brother, Phillip “Dewey” Darrah.

Gerry worked for several years at Irv’s Lunch, later at OSCO Drug and Clark Drug, spending her last several years working at Sheridan Motor Inn, then Jumer’s Continental Inn as a hostess and gift shop attendant. A devout Catholic, Gerry was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church and spent many years active in the Altar and Rosary Society and St. Vincent DePaul Society. Gerry enjoyed spending time with her friends including play cards, especially Pinochle and going to lunch. Blessed with a giving heart, Gerry volunteered for many years at Cottage Corners, now known as Community Treasures.

Visitation will be 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 27, 2024 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Funeral Mass for Gerry will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Father Chris Magesa officiating. Burial will be at Knoxville Cemetery, Knoxville, Illinois. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to Knox County Humane Society or the American Cancer Society.