James J Gallagher

James J Gallagher, 85, of Bethlehem died Monday Nov. 22nd in his home surrounded by his family.

He was the husband of Bridget McGready Gallagher. They celebrated their 51st anniversary this past year.

Born in Glenties, County Donegal, Ireland, he was the son of the late James and Bridget Furey Gallagher.

One of eight children, James came to America in the 1950's, moving to Brooklyn, New York and working for the New York City Board of Education for 30 years as a Fireman in a junior high school. He retired in 1993. After retirement he and his wife moved to Bethlehem in 1998 where he joined Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church.

James was a wonderful story teller with a roguish sense of humor. His priorities in life were his family and his faith. James will be fondly remembered for his generous and selfless spirit.

Surviving with his wife are three sons: James and his wife Frances of Bethlehem, Brendan and his wife Kerren of Cranbury, N.J., and Patrick of Staten Island, N.Y.

He is also survived by his sister Monica Kennedy of Glenties, County Donegal, Ireland and his four grandchildren: James, Katherine, Kevin and Quinn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday Nov. 27th at 10:00 a.m. at Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church 1861 Catausaqua Rd. Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Friends and Family may call Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the Church.

Memorials may be made to the St Vincent de Paul Society of Notre Dame Church or to St. Luke's Hospice, 1510 Valley Center Parkway, Bethlehem PA 18017