James Gallagher

James "Jay" Paul Gallagher

October 4, 1956 - April 17, 2025

James "Jay" Gallagher, age 68, of Tinley Park, IL, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025.

Born in Chicago to James and Lorraine Gallagher, Jim, Jay, J.P. whatever name you called him, lived a life full of adventure, passion, and connection. In 1995, he met the love of his life, Barbara Ann Seeman, through a friend-and as they say, the rest was history. Over the next 30 years, Jay and Barbara built a life full of joy, travel, and laughter, splitting their time between homes in New London, WI and Arizona City, AZ.

A proud member of Local 597, Jay was a dedicated lifetime pipefitter, respected and loved by many in the trade. His union family became an extension of his own, and he cherished the strong bonds he formed through his work. Known for his skill and determination, he brought the same dedication to his passion for restoring antique vehicles-bringing vintage beauties back to life and turning heads at Arizona car shows, where his presence will be deeply missed.

Sociable and generous by nature, Jay was the unofficial mayor of the garage get togethers. He grew a wonderful vegetable garden, sharing the excess with the neighbors. Whether on the water fishing for muskie or under the hood of a classic car, Jay was doing what he loved and sharing it with others.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James and Lorraine Gallagher.

Jay is survived by Barbara, his soulmate and partner of three decades; his sister Gail (John) Haneberg; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends and union brothers and sisters. His spirit will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A great fisherman, a loyal friend, a loving partner-Jay, Jim, JP, James... whatever name you called him by, you knew you were in the presence of someone special.

A funeral mass will be held on Monday April 28, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen Deacon & Martyr at 17500 South 84th Avenue Tinley Park, IL 60487, please meet at church.   Burial to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.  

A visitation will be held at Vandenberg Funeral Home 17248 S Harlem Ave Tinley Park Illinois 60477 on Sunday April 27, 2025 from 3 PM until 8 PM.