The faith community is mourning the loss of Fr. Thomas P. Gallagher, an Oblate priest who passed away this morning at the age of 87 at Christiana Hospital.

Fr. Gallagher, affectionately known as Fr. Tom, dedicated much of his life to faith and service. He had been professed for 68 years and ordained to the priesthood for 58 years, a remarkable span of ministry that touched countless lives through pastoral care, spiritual guidance, and devotion to the Church.

Those who knew him remember Fr. Tom as a compassionate and faithful servant whose life was rooted in prayer, humility, and dedication to his calling. His decades of ministry left a lasting impact on parishioners, fellow clergy, and the communities he served.

As news of his passing spread, many offered prayers and reflections in his memory, honoring the life of a man who spent nearly six decades as a priest guiding others in faith. His passing comes as the faithful reflect on traditions surrounding Saint Patrick’s Day, a moment many say feels fitting given the prayer Fr. Tom often shared throughout his years of ministry.

Loved ones and fellow members of the Oblate community are remembering him with the traditional blessing he cherished:

“May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”

Fr. Thomas P. Gallagher’s long life of faith and service will be remembered with gratitude and love by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace. Amen.