Thomas Edward “Precious” Gallalee passed into eternal life unexpectedly on March 5, 2018, in Louisville, Kentucky, at the age of 83.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Charlene; daughter Fran (Bill) Peters; and granddaughter, Ginger Peters. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Marion Gallalee, and his sister, Ginger Gallalee.
Mr. Gallalee was born on April 16, 1934 in Buffalo, NY. He graduated from Vanderbilt University in 1956 with a degree in Chemical Engineering and was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. After college he was recruited by the United States Marine Corps, serving loyally and faithfully attaining the rank of Captain. He maintained his involvement with the Marines as a lifelong member of the Marine Corps League. Semper Fi! In his professional life, he worked for numerous companies, including: DuPont Chemicals, Tube Turns, and Law Environmental.
In 1971, the couple adopted their daughter, Fran, who will cherish his memory as a kind, gentle, yet stern mentor who always encouraged her to be her very best. The light of his life with whom he shared a very special bond was his granddaughter, Ginger.
Tom loved to talk. He would talk to anyone, about anything – but really enjoyed talking mostly about himself! He was a lifelong learner who loved trivia and would often quiz anyone if given the opportunity.
His funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 10, 2018, at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, Prospect, KY, immediately followed by military honors. His best friend of over 40 years, The Very Rev. B.J. Breen, will be the celebrant.
Visitation is scheduled for March 9, 3-5 pm and 6-8 pm at Highlands Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Road. In lieu of flowers, please send expressions of sympathy to the St. Bernadette Building Fund.
The family would like to especially thank the ICU nursing staff at Norton Brownboro Hospital for their care.