The death has occurred of:
Dermot GALLAGHER
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT / MONTH'S MIND MASS
Dermot GALLAGHER
The family of the late Dermot Gallagher would like to sincerely thank everyone who offered sympathy, kindness and support during their recent sad bereavement. They wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who helped them find the courage and strength to make Dermot’s final days as comfortable and joyful as possible and to give him a truly wonderful send off.
From walking the dog, leaving Christmas presents for the family, playing beautiful music, making memory bears (and a little dog for Éabha), to preparing the best milkshakes, washing the car, helping to prepare the house, supplying food, overseeing car parking - and so much more - every act of kindness meant the world to them.
The family are deeply grateful to everyone who visited the Foyle Hospice; to all who gathered each morning in St Brigid’s College to pray for Dermot and to those who prayed with him in the hospice. They also wish to thank everyone who attended the wake and Funeral Mass, particularly those who travelled long distances and all who contributed and helped in any way - especially Dermot’s many friends, neighbours and colleagues.
The family were deeply touched by the staff and students of St Brigid’s College, who formed a guard of honour outside the school and at St Aengus’ Church, Burt. They are also very thankful for the support of Na Magha and everyone in Nazareth House School for their ongoing care and practical help during the wake.
A special word of thanks is extended to Father Gormley, who celebrated the Requiem Mass; to Sarah and Isabel for the most beautiful singing and music and to all who participated in the celebration of the Mass. The family are extremely grateful to Joe from Bradley & McLaughlin, who did a tremendous job directing the funeral and to his colleagues for their dignified professionalism and for getting the funeral cortège safely from Derry to Donegal in difficult snowy conditions.
An everlasting word of thanks is sent to the incredible team at the Foyle Hospice, who were like an extended family and came to mean so much to Carol, Éimhear, Fionn, Éabha, Cadán and Riley during their stay in the hospice, where they witnessed humanity at its best. The family also recognise the work of the many professionals and carers who made a world of difference during Dermot’s illness.
They are very thankful to the staff of The Squealing Pig and The Cabin for providing the venue and catering after the funeral and to the wonderfully talented musicians who played a final farewell - Steven, Gearalt, Tommy and Paul.
As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, the family trust this acknowledgement will be accepted as a sincere token of their gratitude to everyone who sent Mass cards, letters, messages, flowers or made donations.
The family are truly humbled and deeply moved by the many tributes received and will always treasure how an ordinary family man touched so many lives through his passion for fairness and his respect for the rights of others. May his work continue through all those who inspired Dermot, those who follow in his footsteps and may God keep him close.
Dermot’s Month’s Mind Mass will be offered in St Patrick’s Church, Iskaheen, on Monday 2nd February at 7.00pm. All are very welcome, and a final word of heartfelt thanks is extended to Father Farren for his spiritual guidance and wisdom.
Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.