James Richard “Rick” Gallagher, 81, of Cornelia, passed away on May 6, 2023, at his residence.
Mr. Gallagher was born on March 8, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was a son of the late James Patrick Gallagher and Florence Bigley Gallagher. Mr. Gallagher was an educator with 33 years of experience and had been retired for more than 25 years. Rick was a member of GA Science Teachers, the National Science Teachers Association, and a lifetime member of the Association of Georgia Educators. Mr. Gallagher was also a member of the Jaycees. He served as Park Ranger during the summer for Lake Russell and was a former DJ for WCON. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, traveling, gardening, and science fiction. Mr. Gallagher also enjoyed Jeopardy and gadgets and was an advanced photographer. Rick is described by his family as being a great storyteller and never meeting a stranger.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Gallagher was preceded in death by his wife, Dianne Briggs Gallagher, and nephew, Kevin Gallagher.
Survivors include son and daughter-in-law James Richard “Jim” Gallagher, Jr, (Jill) of Clarkesville; daughter and son-in-law Maria Marrero (Tom) of Johns Creek; grandchildren, Ashley (Mike) Feuvrel, Anna Burroughs, Abby Burroughs, Audrey Marrero, Justin Gallagher, John Luke Gallagher, Jennings Gallagher, and Benjamin Gallagher; great-grandchildren, Mason Jones, Cooper Jones, William Feuvrel, Lilliana Feuvrel, Mariana Feuvrel, Nicholas Feuvrel, and Christian Feuvrel; great-great-grandchild, Natalie Feuvrel; and brother and sister-in-law, Joseph Charles “Jay” Gallagher (Eileen) of Warrington, Pennsylvania; nephews, Brendan and Sean; niece Shannon; and great niece, Clara.
Private family services will be held.
Donations may be made in Mr. Gallagher’s memory to the Habersham County Animal Shelter, 4231 Toccoa Hwy, Clarkesville, GA 30523.
An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com.
McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
