Obituary of James Nathaniel Gallagher

James Nathaniel Gallagher, 78, of Fredericton, passed away peacefully at Fredericton Hospice on Thursday, November 14, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on January 13, 1946, to Nathaniel and Anna Gallagher, who predeceased him, Jim lived a life marked by curiosity, dedication, and an undeniable zest for life. Over the years, he wore many hats, including grocery store owner, teacher, realtor, and investment and insurance advisor. No matter the role, Jim approached everything with a sense of purpose and a passion for learning. 

A proud graduate of St. Thomas University, where he served as President of the Student Union, his leadership and charisma were evident from a young age. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jim loved tennis, snooker, music, and collecting antiques - and more recently, dinky toy cars for his beloved grandchildren. 

Jim was known by many names: “Dad” to his children, Rod (Victoria) and Jessica (Mark Hignell); “Bumpie” to his Gallagher grandsons, Isaiah, Maxwell, Wesley, and Jude; and “Baba” to his Hignell grandchildren, Henry and Clara. He was a man who deeply loved his family, and his grandchildren brought him endless pride and joy. 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Valarie Dickeson Gallagher, who shared a life of love and adventure with him and was his devoted caregiver in his final years. Her strength, compassion, and unwavering care ensured his days were filled with love and dignity. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the incredible staff at Fredericton Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Jim’s final days. 

Jim will be missed by his siblings, Margaret, Catherine, Patricia, Joe, Shaun, Mary-Wyn,  and Anne, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother C.J. Jim’s gregarious and humourous nature made him  a friend of many. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. 

A celebration of Jim’s life will be announced at a later date. In the meantime, raise a glass, tell a tale, or pick up a dinky toy car and remember the man who lived life to the fullest and left it in much the same way he entered it: loved, slightly mischievous, and unforgettable. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fredericton Hospice in Jim’s memory. Hug your family, laugh a little louder, and share a story or a song that makes someone smile. That’s exactly how Jim would want to be remembered.