MARY (MAMIE) GALLAGHER

Condolences & Memories (4 entries)

• I remember Mary as the loving "aunt" - often present at Sunday dinner & always at other celebrations with my Mom, Helen & my Dad, John Taylor & always "larger than life". Her laugh is what is most vivid; it still rings in memory. Her laugh was perhaps the most joyful sound I have ever heard - full bodied and coming from the very centre of her body - very, very unrestrained, reverberating in loud & boisterous tones throughout the house - an invitation to everyone present to "join in The FUN and laugh along" & we did. I loved her as she belted out the songs my Dad played on the family piano during Christmas & at birthday celebrations. Mary was my Mom's oldest friend and was very dear to her; they were friends from St. Edward's and as young women during the depression, they spent much time together roller skating & going to dances & generally "making our own fun" (to quote my Mom). I have a wonderful picture of my Mom & Mary (young women) on horseback - the only time to my knowledge that my Mom was ever on or close to a horse & I can't really imagine what "FORCE OF NATURE" made it so (if the "Force's" name wasn't "Mary"). According to my Mom, Mary's childhood home was always full of young people, laughter, singing and Pets (many Pets - particularly CATS which would wind in and around her legs & each of which was full of purrs & hisses - Horrors!!!) I also have a collection of Free Press Social Notes from the 2nd World War listing the attendees at a number of Afternoon Teas (hosting soldiers and airmen) that were always held at the ever active Gallagher home & complete with "homemade" entertainment. Later in life Mary & my Mom were part of a social group of ladies who met for a luncheon with cards & "talk" and whose enduring friendship made my Mom's last several years (when illness and disabilities overcame her ability to be out & about) much more tolerable than otherwise would have been the case. At the after-church reception at my sister, Margaret's (2001), Mary commented to me that: "I can't imagine what I will do now that your Mom & Noreen are gone. I don't know why God is keeping me here". Mary lived another +10 years and I hope that she found a purpose and that her life remained full of that staunch "Irish" Faith. I know how much she valued her nieces and nephews and the time she spent with each of them & I know that their love & presence would have been a comfort to her. My thoughts and best wishes are being sent today to all of Mary's treasured Family. - Posted by: Doreen Murray (younger daughter of Helen Taylor (Sweeney)) on: Feb 17, 2012

• Mamie had a wonderful "light up her face" smile that we will truly miss. I saw another resident bring that smile to her face with a gentle, kind touch and soft words. Always brought a smile to my face too. - Posted by: Pat (Hair Salon - Lions Manor) on: Feb 04, 2012

• To the Gallagher family: I am truly sorry for the loss of dear Mamie who has now found true peace. May I add my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: C Paul Sinitsin () on: Jan 31, 2012

• I was blessed to have had the opportunity to meet Mary and established a "business" relationship that spanned many years (until my retirement). What a wonderful, gracious lady who touched many lives with her awesome smile. May her family find comfort in knowing she lived a wonderful life and is now home with her Maker. God Bless you all. - Posted by: Gayle Hallock (Friend) on: Jan 31, 2012