James F. Gallagher

James F. Gallagher, 78, of Hollis, NH a retired executive of the former Sanders Associates, Inc., died unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 while vacationing with his wife Patricia and family in The Bahamas.

Born in New Castle, Pennsylvania on December 15, 1932, he was a son of the late John E. and Mary Jane (Rogan) Gallagher. “Jim” was raised in Weirton, West Virginia and graduated from Central Catholic High School. A US Coast Guard veteran, Mr. Gallagher served from 1952 to 1960 and during this time, attended Northeastern University in Boston, graduating with the Class of 1960.

Jim married Patricia Alice Moriarty on January 7, 1956. It was love at first sight and their love, affection and respect are an inspiration to anyone who knows them.

After moving to Nashua, NH in 1960, Jim worked at Nashua Corporation and was hired in 1962 by Sanders Associates where he worked closely with the late Royden Sanders as Corporate Vice President and Controller during the company’s historical years.

His love of art, knowledge of finance and strong work ethic led him to start his own successful businesses, Heritage Galleries in 1970 and Gallagher & Company in 1984.

Jim loved his office and co-workers and was well-liked and respected by his employees. A devoted family man, he created many wonderful memories for his children and grandchildren. His love of nature and the outdoors was spent with his family in Hollis, Lake Cobbosseecontee and Kennebunkport, Maine. His love of travel was passed to his family with many family vacations. Jim was an avid Boston sports fan with a passion for the Celtics. He was season ticket holder who brought many family and friends to the games including 17 championships.

A talented artist, Jim created many beautiful oil paintings for his family. His wisdom, kindness and generosity were apparent to anyone who met him. He was a true gentleman with a great sense of style.

Mr. Gallagher was a devout catholic and a longtime communicant of St. Christopher Parish in Nashua. He was a lecture at the church; was a member of the building committee of the new St. Christopher School that opened in 1964 and served on the Parent Teachers Association. He also was city chairman of the American Cancer Society fund drive in April 1993.

Members of his family include his wife of 54 years, Patricia A. (Moriarty) Gallagher, with whom he would have celebrated their 55th anniversary on January 7th; his four children, Sheila Gallagher, Patrice Sabbagh and her husband John, James F. Gallagher Jr. and Kathleen Gallagher; five grandchildren, Orianna Clark, Alicia Rose Sabbagh, Hillary Patrice Sabbagh, Hailey Marrin Gallagher and James F. Gallagher III; a great-grandchild, Kirby Lossee; his sister, Mary Jane Lewis; also several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by a sister, Ruth Hudson and a brother, John “Jack” Gallagher.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Edgewood Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. Donations may be made in his memory to Harbor Homes, 45 High Street, Nashua, NH 03060. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591 (www.farwellfuneral.com).