Mary L. Gallagher of Pelham Manor, New York, and Groton Long Point, Connecticut passed away at home surrounded by her family on February 24th, 2024. She was 83. Born in Rochester, New York, Mary was the oldest child of John and Grace Loughney. She grew up in New Rochelle, where she attended Holy Family Elementary School and the Academy of the Resurrection.
Mary earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Marymount Manhattan College and did graduate work in education at Hunter College. She taught special needs children in Manhattan for several years, where she conducted an innovative special education program that attracted international note.
In 1965, Mary met her future husband, Brian, in Manhattan. They were married on September 10, 1966 at St. Monica’s Church and had two children, Amanda and Ian. In 1974, the family moved to Pelham Manor, where Mary immersed herself in the community.
An active participant in various organizations, Mary served as treasurer of the Junior League and contributed her energy and expertise to the boards of the Manor Club, the International Garden Club, and the Westchester Cotillion, among others. She was also a member of the New York Athletic Club, Larchmont Yacht Club and the Groton Long Point Yacht Club. A woman of boundless energy, she found joy in activities such as aerobics, tap dancing, and bridge. Despite her many commitments, Mary always focused on her family, whom she cherished above all else. Renowned for her festive spirit, Mary hosted legendary Christmas Eve parties that left an indelible mark on all who attended.
Mary will be fondly remembered as a true lady, extending her warmth, welcome, and dry humor to all. She loved to cook and bake and was always up for a party. She did it her way (and did it well)! Her zest for life and unwavering commitment those she loved will be cherished by all. She was one great lady!
Mary is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Brian Gallagher, her loving children, Amanda Gallagher, and Ian (Irene) Gallagher, her sisters Joan Loughney, Nora Loughney, Katie (Michael) Maloney, her brother John (Georgette) Loughney, as well as many nieces and nephews.
She will be deeply missed.
The Gallagher family would particularly like to thank Mary Myers and Bridgette Coppinger for the amazing care they gave Mary in her final days.
A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 28th from 4:00-8:00 pm at the Pelham Funeral Home, 64 Lincoln Avenue, Pelham, New York. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, February 29th at 9:45 am at St. Joseph’s Church, 15 Cedar Street, Bronxville, New York. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary’s name to http://cancersupportteam.org.
For further details or to leave a condolence message, please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.
Editor’s note: This obituary was provided by the Pelham Funeral Home.
