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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

James P. Gallagher

James “Jim” P. Gallagher of Wilmington, Delaware passed away peacefully in his home on April 10, 2024. He is survived by his wife Beth Gallagher; his four children, Madison E. Gallagher (26), Delaney L. Gallagher (15), Chloe H. Gallagher (14), Daisey L. Gallagher (10); and his furry best friend, Troy. He is also survived by his sisters, Antoinette L. Karlin and her husband, William; and Ryen G. Ryals and her husband Rob. He was preceded in death by his parents James C. Gallagher and Joyce L. Bartley.

Jim loved his family, frequently returning to his hometown of Connellsville, PA to visit them. He graduated from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania as part of the class of 1988. He would proudly tell you about when he was awarded “Greek God” of Sigma Tau Gamma and loved his fraternity brothers. Through every phase of life, Jim was surrounded by loving friends and family, playing golf, tasting wine, and cooking for them. Jim held many titles in his life, but his favorite one was being a father. He loved to travel and took great pride in his career as the business owner of JGPlastics. Jim will be remembered as the person you hoped to be seated next to at a dinner party. He had an answer to every question and a joke to lighten every mood. He was a friend to all, would give you the shirt off his back, and blessed the world with his big personality.

Funeral Services

A visitation will be held on April 16, 2024, at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE at 10:00am. A service to celebrate Jim’s life will follow at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Autism Delaware at https://www.autismdelaware.org/.

Condolences

    Janine Anthony-Ward lit a candle
    04/12/2024 04:38 pm
    Donna Rubba lit a candle and writes,
    Beth and Family: I am shocked and so sorry to hear about Jim. I never met him but heard plenty of stories over the years about his vibrant and fun-loving personality. He was a good man, husband and father. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
    04/12/2024 04:44 pm
    Jennifer McCrystal lit a candle and writes,
    Sending all my love and heartfelt prayers to the entire family. God bless you all and we are so sorry for your loss.
    04/12/2024 04:55 pm
    Chris Dulin lit a candle
    04/12/2024 05:01 pm
    Harry Stasik writes,
    God bless you Jim and your family. You always brought a smile to my face from the time I met you nearly 40 years ago. Many, many cherishable memories. Rest in peace dear Brother.
    04/12/2024 05:07 pm
    Jeff Cook lit a candle and writes,
    Deepest Sympahy and Prayers for the Family!!
    04/12/2024 05:11 pm
    Tina lit a candle and writes,
    Sending love at this difficult time
    04/12/2024 05:40 pm
    Kathleen Forte- Tidd lit a candle and writes,
    Beth, I am so sorry for your family’s loss. You are all in my thoughts & prayers 😓🙏🏻💕
    04/12/2024 05:55 pm
    Harold Bevis writes,
    Jim was a wonderful person who stood by his beliefs and was content with them. His family is special and was special to him.
    04/12/2024 06:51 pm
    Jim and joyce macare writes,
    Our prayers to the family Joyce and jimmy macare Jim was truly a bright and shining star he will me missed
    04/12/2024 06:57 pm
    Jim and joyce macare
    04/12/2024 06:57 pm
    Lisa Martin Badz lit a candle and writes,
    So very sorry for your loss. Jim was a friend of many at Edinboro University. I met Jim many times in our Greek life there. He was always positive and with a smile on his face. Wishing the family and friends peace and comfort during this time.
    04/12/2024 07:06 pm
    Jeff Tritapoe writes,
    Jim is my good friend and counselor! I will miss him greatly! We had many discussions through our business interactions and the last time we were together, we played golf at the DuPont course in Delaware. Until we meet again Jim….your friend, Jeff
    04/12/2024 07:26 pm
    Wendy Henry writes,
    I’m so very sorry for the loss of Jimmy . He loved his family so much and adored his daughters . Gone too soon for sure. Rest in eternal peace,Jimmy.
    04/12/2024 07:27 pm
    Cindy Saluski lit a candle and writes,
    Many years ago I worked with Jim . What a great leader ! He will always leave a can do attitude for me !!
    04/12/2024 07:28 pm
    Lynn Willis lit a candle and writes,
    great to have you as a friend
    04/12/2024 09:03 pm
    Carole Jazbec lit a candle and writes,
    Dear Toni, I'm deeply saddened to hear of Jimmy's passing, my heart goes out to you, and your family. Please know I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. May Jimmy's memory be for a blessing, With love, Carole Ann
    04/12/2024 09:11 pm
    Cindy Cromley lit a candle and writes,
    Beth, I am so very sorry for you & your family’s loss.. so heartbreaking. I will be thinking of you & your girls and lifting you up in prayer ❤️🙏
    04/12/2024 09:18 pm
    Kip Metkiff writes,
    I'm truly sorry for your loss, Beth. Jim was a wonderful man, and his light touched many lives. If there's anything I can do to support you and the girls during this difficult time, please don't hesitate to reach out. Festival season was not officially kicked off until running into your gang and celebrating. I especially appreciated how Jim loved Luca, showing up to his basketball games and hanging with him at the DuPont pool. He will be missed.
    04/12/2024 09:37 pm
    Nathalie Bevis lit a candle and writes,
    Jim. We will find peace ✌️
    04/12/2024 10:03 pm
    Nathalie Bevis lit a candle and writes,
    Jim. Sympathy and prayers for the family!
    04/12/2024 10:10 pm
    The Alumni Brothers of Sigma Tau Gamma, Beta Omega Chapter lit a candle and writes,
    Jim was a great Brother and we are all saddened to hear this news. We will raise our glasses and toast to Jim's friendship and life at our upcoming annual July reunion. Our Deepest sympathies.
    04/12/2024 10:53 pm
    Scott Ausmus lit a candle and writes,
    Jim , I will miss you dearly . We had dinner two week ago in Philly and You looked so good . You were calm ,cool and collect . Chose the perfect restaurant and even picked me up at the airport . A true gentleman and scholar . Always the sharpest dressed in the room .We talked thru Business issues and helped each other Reach resolutions . You ended most of our calls telling me “ I love you man” I wish I could tell you back one more time . You loved your wife and kids more than life . I’m so glade you attended my wedding last year . Know one travel as far to spend the special day with me and my family …. Take care I love you man !
    04/13/2024 12:11 am
    Yvonne Rulli-Butler lit a candle and writes,
    Madison, Delaney, Chloe, and Daisy - I am so very very sorry that your dad has passed away. He was such a bright field of energy - funny, exasperating, HIGHLY energetic, good-looking, intelligent, and best of all - he got to be your father, and all of you got to be his daughters. I don’t believe there are any words right now that can bring you the comfort the four of you need or want. Be patient with yourselves, and patient with your grief; it will stay forever but will someday become bearable. I hope and pray the four of you have each other, and your Moms, to look to for strength in the time to come. One thing I can say with certainty - your dad loved the four of you with even more energy than he loved his life. Love to you all - Yvonne.
    04/13/2024 12:54 am
    Yvonne Rulli-Butler lit a candle and writes,
    Beth - I am so very sorry for the sorrow that is visited upon you and your girls and Madison. I am truly sorry. May peace and prayers and strength be yours. Love, Yvonne
    04/13/2024 12:57 am
    Mitch Kallay writes,
    Jim was a special person whom I met when I pledged SigTaus at Edinboro. He was a different breed but had the biggest heart. My work allowed me to stay connected over the years and I looked forward to popping in on him randomly in Wilmington. Love you Jimmy G!
    04/13/2024 01:28 am
    Marcy Ozorowski lit a candle and writes,
    Beth and girls, please accept out sincere condolences over the loss of your husband and father. We are praying for your comfort and healing during your time of grief and do not hesitate to call on us if there is anything we can help you with. Your friends in Christ, Marcy and Michael Ozorowski (Joyce's neighbors).
    04/13/2024 02:22 am
    Scott Ausmus lit a candle and writes,
    I gave Jim a ride to the airport 15 years ago and he quickly became one of my best friends..When I was feeling challenged or defeated in Personal or business Jim would talk me off the ledge and build my confidence . When I say the guy would give you the shirt of his back … he literally did . I came to Philly and he insisted I stay at his house with Beth and the kids and he tried to give me every nice shirt in his closet . When I told him I was getting married last year , he jumped on a plane and came to Georgia to celebrate with me and my family . When I told Jim I was coming to Philly for bussnes 2 weeks ago ,he insistsd on picking me up at the airport and driving me and my co-worker to dinner . He looked so good … he had a calm ,peaceful nature about himself that night . Like he knew that would be our last meal together and yes… as always ,Jim was the sharpest dressed man in the house . Jim almost always ended our phone calls with “ I love you man” so I say to my dear friend ..”Jim ,I love you man “ Rest in peace brother .
    04/13/2024 04:52 am
    Scott cornish lit a candle and writes,
    Very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls
    04/13/2024 06:16 am
    Dennis J Durkin writes,
    Beth and Family I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing . You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Dennis and Karen Durkin
    04/13/2024 06:22 am
    Debbie Edwards Rulli writes,
    We are so sorry. We are sure he is with his Mommy, Grandma, Pap and Uncle Johnny having a good time. Knowing Jimmy, he is livening up the party. God Bless. Love, Aunt Debbie and Uncle Tony.
    04/13/2024 09:20 am
    Steve Shuder lit a candle and writes,
    I’m shocked and deeply saddened. Jim was always so full of life. Always ready with quick wit and a determined personality. Always leaving you with, “I love you brother.” Rest in peace my friend. May God take you into his arms and provide comfort to his family.
    04/13/2024 10:03 am
    Vincent Jones writes,
    Bernadette and I are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Jim. We hope that you and your family can find some comfort and peace during this difficult time. Jim will truly be missed by all.
    04/13/2024 10:34 am
    Hillary and Phil Facchina writes,
    We have Very fond memories with him at the house in Dewey Beach. He was always up for a good time. With a smile on his face. Prayers to the family. 🙏
    04/13/2024 11:24 am
    Helen Martin writes,
    Children, Beth and Family, Just know life long PRAYERS will forever be out and up for you daily. Remember YOU all are never alone. Hugs for and to you all as strengthening encouragement awaits you. Helen Martin
    04/13/2024 01:40 pm
    Sussan Chakamian lit a candle and writes,
    Beth - I can’t even explain how difficult it is to process that Jim is gone. It was only 3 years ago that we met him, running around the yard and playing with Daisy. He brought us joy, generosity, and love ever since. We couldn’t have asked for a better neighbor than the two of you, and the girls. My heart is broken, and I know, so is yours. Dear Madison, Delaney, Chloe, and Daisy – We loved your dad! For his love of life, for his infinite generosity, and for the unconditional love he had for you all. We will never forget him.
    04/13/2024 02:38 pm
    Bernard beamon lit a candle and writes,
    I met Jimmy at Edinboro in 1986. We work together that summer, painting apartments. We laugh everyday, taught me about new wave punk music. Hw will be miss. My deepest sympathy.
    04/13/2024 03:16 pm
    Jeff Grammo lit a candle and writes,
    I knew Jimmy as a fun loving soul. I only hung out with him and his cousin a handful of times but all were awesome and fulflled. Loved the guy. I will be there to honor him and support the Rulli family
    04/13/2024 03:16 pm
    Kelly and Andy Fox lit a candle and writes,
    Beth, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls. Love, Kelly and Andy Fox
    04/13/2024 08:50 pm
    Bob Wisilosky lit a candle and writes,
    Jim, you've been a friend for 53 years, it is still so hard to believe. I only say goodbye for now. Until we meet again. God Bless you and your family!
    04/13/2024 10:10 pm
    Stanley I Wisilosky lit a candle and writes,
    To Jimmy's family. I am so sorry for your loss. I’ve known Jimmy from when he was an infant child living in North Manor, Connellsville PA across the sidewalk from my family. I was a friend of his mother, Joyce. I babyset he and his sister for many years. We stayed in contact with each other through Facebook. Know that you had a special husband and Dad in Jimmy. RIP my neighbor.
    04/13/2024 10:20 pm
    Ken Swanson writes,
    Jim was truly one of a kind. I knew him for over 30 years and we laughed every time we were together. He was a warrior with impeccable style and loved by family and friends. I will miss him and will continue to tell stories of Jim for many more years. RIP my brother.
    04/14/2024 07:44 am
    Ray Desendorf writes,
    Beth: Peg and I offer our deepest sympathies and condolences. Jim and I met through work many years ago. We quickly became friends and remained that way for all this time. Being work friends was great, but our best times came from just visiting together and playing or watching golf. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
    04/14/2024 07:47 am
    Emit Stover lit a candle and writes,
    Jim you were always such a great person to be around. Your personality always filled every room you were in. No matter how long between our conversations, it was always like we had just spoken yesterday. I will truly miss you my friend. Sending prayers for Beth and the girls.
    04/14/2024 11:50 am
    Jenny Rulli lit a candle and writes,
    I am so saddened by Jimmy’s passing. My heart goes out to his family. Jimmy’s antics guaranteed a laugh at every family gathering over the years. I will cherish those memories forever. I will miss you, cousin.
    04/14/2024 01:09 pm
    Paul Gage writes,
    God’s peace to the beautiful Family and all who were lucky enough to call Jimmy a Friend. He was one of the most colorful people I have ever known. So full of passion and personality! From our young experiences as we would “ lock er down” on the road at CT Film to our time on the golf course these past few years I will cherish the memories. Most impressive was seeing him mature into a loving Father and husband. This is his legacy. RIP, old Friend!
    04/14/2024 02:43 pm
    Fran and Bill Metkiff lit a candle and writes,
    Our sincere sympathy to you and your family Beth. We will be praying for you all. Fran and Bill
    04/14/2024 03:13 pm
    Elizabete Handonu writes,
    Deepest Sympahy and Prayers for the Family!!
    04/14/2024 06:22 pm
    Adam Cartwright lit a candle and writes,
    I am so sorry and my deepest condolences to you and your family. I hope your family can find peace during this difficult time.
    04/14/2024 07:25 pm
    The Dimick Family & McCormick Family. lit a candle and writes,
    Rest in peace dear Jimmy. Prayers and condolences to family and friends. Always remember our cousin as a jokester who would make everone around him laugh. Remembering all the stories we were told over the years. Even as a youngster he had the ability to makes things funny. May you be welcomed by all your loved ones up in heaven. Keep watch over is and keep us laughing. Our Deepest Sympathy, The Dimick and McCormick Family.
    04/14/2024 10:05 pm
    The Kulas Family lit a candle
    04/14/2024 10:31 pm
    Mark L Jordan writes,
    Beth, I’m praying for you and the girls. Jim was a once in a lifetime 3 ring circus. I loved his antics every step of the way. I will miss him every day. If you ever need to talk or vent, I have some experience with loss that you might draw from. I am available to you 24/7. Mark 610.849.3136. MJ Vallejo
    04/15/2024 12:33 am
    Frances lit a candle and writes,
    Jimmy, You will be so missed. We were all looking forward to seeing you at the 40th class reunion. To Beth, I am so sorry for this incredible loss. Your husband was a kind man, with a great sense of humor. I am profoundly sorry for the four beautiful daughters he has left behind. He will be missed by so, so many. May his memory live on through you, his daughters, and those whose lives he touched, and were made better for it. 💔
    04/15/2024 09:57 am
    Jim and Shannon Nicoloff writes,
    To Beth and the girls. Shannon and I wish you strength, peace, and love during this time. Jimmy was a bright shining light for us with his infectious smile, quick wit and unwavering friendship. We will always hold a special place in our hearts for him. May God Bless you all.
    04/15/2024 02:21 pm
    Cynde Sullivan Kuhns lit a candle and writes,
    So so fun!! I will never forget Jim from our days at Edinboro University. ASA/Sig Tau events were a blast. He was always happy and smiling! A true good guy and friend! Rest in Peace Jim, until we meet again 💔
    04/15/2024 02:22 pm
    Behrooz Ghorbanian lit a candle and writes,
    In absence of Friend Jim Gallagher; Not all angels come to us perfect. Some show at our doors with a broken wing. But still with the same love. With the same generosity, the same enthusiasm. In their presence, we learn how every empty moment can be filled with joy. They teach us how to give. To give unconditionally. To give always… In their silent generosity they teach us to love. How to laugh. Even in their burning despair, they teach us. They teach us how to worry about others from bottom of our hearts. Always… They help us bear the heavy weight of existence, this burning sensation of loss and nothingness. Jim Gallagher, was my perfect friend. I saw in him a perfect father, a grateful husband… as always, who loved, and loved and loved. In sorrow, Behrooz Ghorbanian
    04/15/2024 03:44 pm
    Frank & Maria Glaug lit a candle and writes,
    I met Jim when he worked at CT (Consolidated Thermoplastics) and I worked at Confab in 1996. I led the conversion to use co-extruded poly from CT for Belted Undergarments. Jim and became good friends soon afterwards. Jim was a loyal & genuine friend throughout the years. We later introduced our families to each other and we all became friends. Jim will be greatly missed and I feel like I lost a true brother. PS: I used to refer to Jim’s girls as Jim’s Angels (like Charlie’s Angels on TV). We are sending our sincere condolences and prayers to Beth & the entire family. Love to you all and may God Bless. Frank, Maria, Natalie and Christian Glaug
    04/15/2024 07:11 pm
    Elham lit a candle and writes,
    I am so sorry for your loss! I am sending my sincere condolences to you and your family. Elham.
    04/16/2024 09:02 am
    Sean Lavelle lit a candle and writes,
    Jimmy was extremely kind to me during a tough time in my early 30s. He brought hope and humor to every conversation and was always very uplifting and respectful. I always took notice of his presence when he would enter a room. I’m happy to have known him.
    04/16/2024 09:07 am
    Paul Georgelos lit a candle and writes,
    Beth & Family - My sincere condolences on Jim's passing. He always had a big smile and a joyful and playful demeanor in his life. You couldn't help but feel better after talking to Jim for a few minutes. He just elevated your spirit. I'll truly miss him.
    04/16/2024 01:00 pm
    Jeff Wible writes,
    Very few people in this world are fortunate enough to have known someone like Jim. I was fortunate enough to be able to call him brother and friend. Love you my friend. Rest in peace brother.
    04/16/2024 04:32 pm
    Debbie Conaway writes,
    Our family met Jimmy when he was young, living in Connellsville. Sympathies to his immediate family but, also, too, to Toni and Ryen, his sisters. May he rest in peace. The Conaway Family
    04/17/2024 12:41 pm
    Scott R lit a candle and writes,
    Condolences to the entire Gallagher Family. Jimmy, from the days at Edinboro to the last couple of seasons tailgating with the fellas at the University of Delaware Football games. You will truly be missed. And because it is the kind of guy you are...would you reach out to my wife and give her a hug for me please, and I will see you both one day!! Love you Face!!
    04/17/2024 07:37 pm
    Shymia Bolden writes,
    Beth, I’m sorry to have hear about Jim such an overall great man. I talked to him no long ago and a school function and we always had great conversations whenever we saw one another. What a dad to be so involved! All my love to you and the girls.
    04/18/2024 02:25 pm
    LouAnn Zabela (Wisilosky) writes,
    Jimmy can’t believe you are gone. Growing up you were ornery. I can remember you and Boo on the big wheels! Fly with the Angels, you are with your mom now, miss her also. Till we meet again
    04/19/2024 01:16 am
    Doug Bengtson writes,
    Jim was truly one of a kind and always had a way to lighten the mood of any situation. We worked together for many years and will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in Peace G … Dougie Fresh.
    04/20/2024 09:11 pm

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