Graham Edward Gallagher

It is with deepest sorrow we announce the death of Graham Gallagher on July 28, 2021 from pancreatic cancer. Graham was a man of great integrity and compassion and we are heartbroken at this incalculable loss.

Born in Halifax on September 9, 1944, Graham was the son of the late Edward and Susie (Young) Gallagher. Graham graduated St. Mary’s University in 1968 with a bachelor of arts in education, followed by a master’s degree in 1981. He became an institution at Oxford School in Halifax, where he taught for his entire 29-year teaching career. As a junior high science teacher, he was affectionately known as “Beaker.” He was a dedicated educator, who meticulously wrote out lesson plans up to his last day of classes.

In 1977, Graham married the love of his life, Carolyn. They settled down in Armdale, where they welcomed daughter Kathleen in 1979. Graham was a devoted husband and father, who passed on his passion for music and learning to Kathleen. He also loved animals, especially the family cats (Fa, Percy and Emma) and crows.

Upon Graham’s retirement from teaching in 1997, he and Carolyn spent many happy years travelling across Europe, the USA and Canada. An avid photographer, a camera was never too far from his grasp. In later years, Graham and Carolyn moved to Bedford, where Graham could be found playing pool or chatting with fellow residents at The Friesian.

Graham’s career was teaching, but his intellectual curiosity made him a life-long student. He was always eager to learn new things, and loved sharing his knowledge with others. Graham was well-known for his expertise in military history, and his collection of military miniature figurines, which he constructed and painted.

He enjoyed beaches, but not for swimming or sunbathing… Graham would always return from long walks along beaches with pockets full of unusual stones which caught his eye. (Apologies to the local conservation societies!)

Graham is survived by his wife Carolyn (Goulden), daughter Kathleen, sister Jeanne Berthier (Gallagher), nieces Angelique Damaski (Berthier) and Michelle Berthier.

The family wishes to thank all who have provided support during this difficult time, especially the Palliative Care unit at the Victoria General Hospital and Bob Boudreau.

Visitation will be at Cruikshank’s Funeral Home in Halifax on Wednesday, August 4th from 2-4pm and 6-8pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favourite charity.

“So fill to me the parting glass

And drink a health whate’er befall,

And gently rise and softly call

Good night and joy be with you all.”