James "Jim" Patrick Gallagher

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Patrick Gallagher, of Greer, SC, on April 27, 2025. Jim was born on April 7, 1960 in Arlington Heights IL, to the late John A. (Jack) and Audrey Gallagher. 

He was reared in Barrington IL, and graduated from Illinois State University with a BA in English, and a vocabulary that could fill three dictionaries. His ability to thoughtfully and intelligently defend his viewpoint on almost any subject matter, set him apart. After graduating he took a job in the transportation industry, while contemplating entering law school. 

When he finally met and married his wife Mindy, who was raising two daughters, he put that dream aside and continued working in the field of international import logistics. Jim was a hard worker, often praised for going above and beyond to see a project to completion and was compensated with bonuses and raises even during his company’s lean years. It wasn’t until 2013 that the quality of his work began to suffer due to Early Onset Alzheimer’s. It took until 2020 to get that diagnosis. Jim persevered against the odds, his high intelligence often masking the severity of his illness. 

In 2018, Jim and Mindy retired early and left Minnesota to enjoy warmer weather and lower taxes in South Carolina. They built a beautiful life that included many new friends, wonderful neighbors and a loving church community. His deep belly laugh, quick wit and bright smile remained with him until the end.

He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but especially by his loving wife, Mindy, his daughter, Laura Hansen and stepdaughter, Amanda Hansen. He leaves behind his sister Mary Gallagher of Phoenix, AZ, and brother Tom Gallagher of Chicago IL. He is predeceased by his sister Eileen and brother John, as well as his parents, Jack and Audrey. 

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3, at his home in Greer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lorenzo’s House, The Carnation Foundation, or The Bellview Baptist Church Building Fund.