Patricia Gallagher, of Hollis, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine, died peacefully in her sleep after a lengthy illness on December 8th in the home she and her husband James designed and built together in 1982. It was one of the first solar homes in New Hampshire.
Born on January 12th, 1935 to Robert Arthur and Alice Moriarty. Patsy was raised in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. She attended local schools and graduated from Jamaica Plain High in 1953, after being voted most glamorous in her senior year. That title was true of her for her entire life.
After high school she worked at the Bell telephone company, enjoying her career and the single life. That all changed when she locked eyes with her future husband Jim. It was love at first sight for both of them. Jim only knew her name and called every Moriarty in the Boston phone book until he finally reached her. They married on January 7th, 1956. Their love affair continued until his death on January 4th, 2011, 3 days before their 55th anniversary. Their love and commitment is a true inspiration to many.
To her dismay, the family moved from Boston to Nashua New Hampshire but that changed quickly as they formed many lifelong friendships. Most notably her “Marie Ave Gang” who supported each other their whole lives, good times and bad. It was always special when they got together, laughing almost the entire time. Patsy and Jim were devoted parents who raised 4 children together in a home filled with love, warmth, and wonderful memories. Their fondness for Maine began in 1967 when they purchased a cottage on Lake Cobbosseecontee in West Gardiner, Maine. Patsy would load up with the kids in the station wagon the day school ended and come home the day before school started again. They made lifelong friends and entertained many friends of themselves and their children. Patsy was an excellent and generous hostess, making everyone who visited feel like family.
In 1970, Patsy’s creativity came to light when she and Jim opened a frame and art shop. Patsy worked there for years, along with raising her family.
In 1986 they expanded their love of Maine to include the coast, again having many memorable times with their children and grandchildren. No matter how many guests were there, Patsy’s home was immaculate and welcoming.
There was nothing in our eyes that Patsy couldn’t do. She was a beautiful dresser, fantastic cook, expert seamstress, and crafter. She handmade countless quilts, that she passed along to special guests. She was a seasoned traveler, a passionate reader, especially history books, and a skilled card player. She did crossword puzzles in pen, the more challenging the better.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband James and son James Jr. as well as her shitzu companion PJ. Her sister Sheila (Moriarty) Moylan, brother Robert “Bobby” Moriarty and best friend Cleo Barrett.
She is survived by her children Sheila Alice Gallagher, Patrice and her husband John Sabbagh, and Kathleen Mary Gallagher.
Her favorite role was that of a Grammy to Orianna Clark, Alicia Rose and her husband Sherick Jansen, Hillary Sabbagh, Hailey Gallagher, and James Gallagher. And her great-grandchildren Kirby and Violet.
Patsy will always be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and quick wit. She will be missed by all who were fortunate to know her.
Calling hours will be Saturday, January 6th, 2024 at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, from 9-11am followed by burial at Edgewood Cemetery and a reception with details to follow.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to Home Health and Hospice, 7 Executive Park, Drive Merrimack NH 03054 www.hhhc.org To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com
