Thelma J. Gallagher

Alder Creek- Thelma J. Gallagher, age 108, a former longtime resident of State Rt. 12, Alder Creek and widow of Ed, passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Sunset Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Boonville, after a brief illness.

Thelma was born in Richfield Springs, NY, on September 5, 1915, a daughter of Francis and Helen Jane Vrooman Smith. She graduated from Herkimer High School, with the Class of 1933. Following high school, for many years, Thelma was employed at Remmington-Rand Typewriter Co. of Ilion, NY.

On May 10, 1946, Thelma was united in marriage with George Edward Gallagher, at the bride’s summer home on Kayuta Lake. In 1950, the couple built a home in Alder Creek, where she lived until entering the nursing home. During the 1950’s Ed and Thelma operated North Star Cabins, near their home in Alder Creek. Later, for 21 years, Mrs. Gallagher was employed as a nurse’s aid, in health care, at Marcy Psychiatric Center, Marcy, NY. Mr. Gallagher, a Veteran of WWII, serving in the Pacific Theater, and well known carpenter and builder, passed away on December 13, 1983.

Thelma was a member of St. Patrick’s Church, Forestport. She enjoyed raising vegetables and flowers and was also an accomplished cook and baker. She enjoyed canning her garden produce each year.

She is survived by a dear friend, Norma Donahue.

In keeping with Thelma’s wishes, there are no calling hours or services. A private interment will be held in the Spring, in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Forestport.