James "Jim" Brian Gallagher was born on January 4, 1955, to Edward and Eleanor Gallagher in Queens, New York. He was a thoughtful, caring, son and the eldest brother to Joan, Brian, and Kathleen.
He was a graduate of Auburn University majoring in accounting, later obtaining a CPA license. He worked for Arthur Andersen, Golden State Water/American States Water Company, recently retiring after 32 years of service. He shared his passion for Auburn University Tigers with his sons and other College football enthusiasts.
Jim married Valerie Ann Doxey on April 15, 2004, and was sealed to her on August 20, 2011, in the California Redlands temple. A devoted, patient, loving husband, proud father and step-dad to Nikki, Patrick, Brenden, Garrett, Dustin, Janelle, Aleece, and Lauren. They raised their family in Chino Hills, California.
He was known as the tickle monster to all 18 of his grandchildren. He strived to have a special relationship with each child and found so much joy in playing and wrestling with all of the kids.
He was always ready for playing games, swimming, going to the movies, or going on a river floating adventure. He and Valerie loved to travel together.
He loved music and enjoyed singing at home, in the car, at church and in the choir. 70's rock was hisfavorite; Dan Fogelberg was on the list of necessities for a desert island. He also loved reading, and hisfavoritebook was The Book of Mormon.
He was passionate in his love for the Savior. This was demonstrated in the way he lived his life: diligent in caring for others and generously serving. He genuinely loved others as Jesus would. Teaching the children inprimarywas hisfavoritechurch position of the many he faithfully fulfilled in his service for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
On Saturday, August 10th, 2019, a viewing will commence at 10 am, and funeral services will follow at noon at Larkin Mortuary 260 E South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84103. Then proceeding to gravesite located at Salt Lake City Cemetery, 200 N Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84103.
