Retired Sociology/Honors Professor Dr. James E. Gallagher passes away
The Department of Sociology would like to express our condolences to the Gallagher Family.
Dr. James E. Gallagher died on May 12, 2024. Born Sept. 20,1940, in Woburn, Massachusetts, Jim grew up in an Irish working-class community. He never imagined going to college. His life changed when a high school teacher, recognizing his inquiring mind, earnestly insisted he apply to Middlebury College. Receiving a full scholarship for 4 years, he fell in love with Middle English, languages, folklore, and the life of the mind.
Thus began Jim’s academic journey at Indiana University, where he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for a year of research in Istanbul, Turkey. He then earned a master’s degree in Folklore, and a Ph. D in Sociology.
Jim joined the faculty at the University of Maine in 1971, teaching Sociology and Honors for more than 30 years. Jim loved teaching. Beginning his classes by assuring his students, “There are no stupid questions,” he challenged students to explore ideas and discover knowledge on their own, making learning a life-long endeavor.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on June 11, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. at the Lamoine Bayside Grange. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to: Rock Steady Boxing – Bold Coast, P.O. Box 1187, Mariaville Road, Ellsworth, ME 04605; or to Downeast Community Partners Transportation.