Isabelle "Sis" Marie Gallagher

Sis Gallagher died on December 30, 2018 in Colorado Springs, after complications from a stroke. She lived a healthy 95 years in a variety of places from her birthplace near Glenside, Pennsylvania to Massachusetts, New Jersey, Kentucky, North Carolina, Toronto, Illinois and finally Colorado Springs, where she has lived with her husband, Jim, since 1984. Sis grew up in the Philadelphia area as one of ten children in an Irish-Catholic family, and she is survived by her sister Pat and brothers Jimmy and Jack. She married James A. Gallagher in 1953 and celebrated their 65th anniversary in May 2018. Sis is survived by her husband Jim and their seven children: Susan Walters of Del Mar, CA; Mary Williams (Doug) of Clancy, MT; Betsy Ninomiya (Jim) of Milwaukee, WI; Pat Lawlor (David) of West Glover, VT; James A. Gallagher Jr, of Colorado Springs; Peggy Richey (John) of Lexington KY; and Paul Gallagher (Dusti) of Wamego KS. Sis and Jim have eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Sis, as you can imagine, spent a lot of time taking care of children. She was a devoted and loving mother who was able to manage a large household with grace, style and good humor.

Sis enjoyed travelling across North America and Europe with her husband- and even went with her husband and seven children on a 5,000 mile car trip to Acapulco, Mexico from Kentucky in the early 1970’s! Her favorite compliment was when people confused her with Doris Day, which did happen on more than one occasion! She was proud of her children and grandchildren, and inspired her children by her example. She took care of her husband and children first, and took the ups and downs of life in stride. After raising her children, she and Jim bought a business in Colorado Springs, where she worked well into her 70’s. Underneath her petite and refined appearance she was a “tough cookie” and her influence will live well beyond her 95 years. She will be missed and remembered with love by her family and friends.

Sis was a devout Catholic and her charities included the Maryknoll Missionaries, St. Mary’s HS in Colorado Springs, and Catholic Charities of Colorado Springs. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to these organizations.

Viewing will be held Sunday, 1/6, 3-7pm, with Rosary following at 7pm, both at Swan Law Funeral Directors, 501 N. Cascade Ave. Mass will be held Monday, 1/7, 10am at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 3122 Poinsetta Dr.