Thomas Francis Gallagher, M.D.

Thomas Francis Gallagher, M.D.

February 6, 1932 – August 13, 2021

Preceded in death by parents, Beatrice Sheehan Gallagher and Thomas F. Gallagher; brothers, Brian Boru and Michael Jerome.  Thomas was born in Chicago and lived in Hyde Park.  He was a Hutchins scholar and received a BA from the University of Chicago in 1950.  He attended Swarthmore College until 1952, after which he entered the US Navy, went to officer candidate school, and served in Korea in mine warfare.

In 1962, Thomas entered medical school at the University of Chicago, doing internships and residency there.  His fellowship in Boston was in Endocrinology, specializing in thyroid and obesity.  In 1970, Thomas joined the faculty of the University of Nebraska College of Medicine.  He retired in 1999 after a career of research, teaching students, patients, and fellow physicians.

Thomas was a lifelong student of aspects of life, especially literature, music, art, religion, food and wine, roses, birds, new discoveries in science, word puzzles, and the list goes on. Thomas’s many interests fostered his great joy of connecting with people, sharing deep and engaging conversations, and building forever memories.  He and Nancy were the first ones on the dance floor and the last ones to leave—living life to the fullest with each step.

Thomas is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; grateful and caring daughters: Ruth (Mark Nelson), Ann (Joe Steele), Mary (Jim Jansen), and Clare (Rick Sansburn); and exceptional grandchildren: Theo and Virginia Jansen, Ava and Tom Steele, and Owen and Margaret Sansburn.

Memorials are suggested to Cathedral Arts Project or the Rose Garden at The Omaha Botanical Center.

VISITATION: Monday, August 16th from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel.  MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Tuesday, August 17th at 10:30am, Christ the King Catholic Church, 654 S. 86th St.  Interment: Omaha National Cemetery.  The family asks everyone to wear masks at the Visitation and Mass.

To view a live broadcast of the Mass, please go to www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “View Live Cast” button on the home page.

 

5 Comments

  • Harry Prskalo Posted August 14, 2021 9:39 pm

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

  • Amy Fitzgerald Posted August 15, 2021 12:37 pm

    Nancy and her girls,
    What a gift Mr Gallagher was. I met many college friends dads but he is unforgettable. He treated me like a daughter from the moment he met me. So blessed to know your family. Ruth you have always been a faithful friend and I cherish you. I can never repay how you stepped up and helped me with the boys over those many weeks at the RMH. I will never forget that it was your dad that made sure Austin and I didn’t have to take a taxi from the airport on our first trip there. I will thank him in person one day! Prayers to all of you! Amy Kurt and the Fitz boys

  • Nicole Fournier Posted August 16, 2021 12:09 pm

    May Uncle Tom R.I.P. He will be missed by many. He was a wonderful Man. I am sending prayers to My Aunt Nancy and cousins. God Bless to all. Nicole

  • Michelle Kloack Posted August 17, 2021 11:29 am

    Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

  • Don Heistad Posted September 5, 2021 2:54 pm

    Tom, Nancy, Sandy, and I had such wonderful times together, starting in 1964 or before that. I will always remember Tom, and what he taught me about medicine and life. Take care. Best, Don

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