It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Teresa "Terri" Gallagher, who passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at the age of 56 on September 15, 2026.

Born to Walter and Barbara Lischak, Terri lived a life defined by kindness, friendship, adventure, and an unwavering devotion to those she loved. She was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose warmth, generosity, and infectious enthusiasm enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Above all else, Terri cherished her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband, John, and a loving mother to her sons, Ryan and Brendan, who were the center of her world. Whether hosting holiday celebrations, planning gatherings, or simply enjoying time together, Terri found her greatest happiness in creating meaningful memories with family and friends.

Raised in upstate New York, Terri developed a lifelong appreciation for family traditions and cherished summers spent at Lake George. After graduating from Wallkill High School, she attended Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania, where she earned a degree in Marketing. While in college, she secured a coveted summer internship at Walt Disney World, a place that had captured her imagination as a young, aspiring princess. Disney remained one of her favorite destinations throughout her life, creating countless treasured memories with her family there over the years.

Though educated in marketing, Terri's true talent was bringing energy, joy, and connection to every community she joined. She cultivated those gifts as a member of the Widener cheerleading squad and as Social Chair of her Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. The leadership, warmth, and enthusiasm she displayed during those years would become hallmarks of her character throughout her life.

Terri embraced the world with curiosity and a spirit of adventure. When John's career presented the opportunity to move overseas, she eagerly welcomed the experience. Their family's journey took them to South Korea and later China, where Terri immersed herself in new cultures, formed lasting friendships, and created memories that would remain among her most treasured experiences.

No matter where she lived, Terri had a remarkable ability to build community. She loved organizing social gatherings, welcoming newcomers, and helping others feel included. Her many interests reflected her vibrant personality, from playing mah jongg and golfing with friends to expressing her creativity through crafting. In her beloved neighborhood, she became a driving force behind community-building efforts, helping unite residents around initiatives that strengthened both security and friendships.

Terri is survived by her loving husband, John; her sons, Ryan and Brendan; her parents, Walter and Barbara Lischak; her sister, Cindy Mitchem (Heath); her faithful Lab, Lucky; and many cherished extended family members and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her love, kindness, and friendship.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in the countless memories Terri leaves behind and in the example she set through a life filled with compassion, adventure, laughter, and love. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the friendships she nurtured, and the communities she strengthened.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever present in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial donations in Terri's honor to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University, the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, or the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee. Through these gifts, Terri's spirit of generosity, care for others, and belief in strengthening communities will continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

"To know Terri was to experience genuine kindness, enduring friendship, and a joyful spirit that made every gathering brighter."