Marjorie Mcmenamin

Obituary Marjorie Gallagher McMenamin was born on Sept. 6th, 1910 in the town of Ruston, Washington and passed away May 20, 2005. Her entire life was spent in the north end of Tacoma. William and Mary Gallagher, from Donegal, Ireland were her parents. Owen Gallagher, Robert Gallagher (both deceased) and Father William Gallagher were her brothers. After attending Ruston School, Marjorie went on to graduate from Stadium High School at the age of 16. She always wanted to go to a teacher's college, but due to the depression, that was not an option. Business College was next and then a job working for an insurance firm in downtown Tacoma. When the insurance company closed, Mary found work as a governess to the Sullivan Family who lived on Gravelly Lake. She met James McMenamin, the love of her life. In 1936 James and Marjorie were married at Holy Cross Church. A new phase of her life began. Together they planned and built their dream house, a log cabin overlooking Point Defiance Park. She resided there for 64 years. Together they raised four children, Bill, Maureen, Ann and Sheila. Mom devoted those years to her children, helped Jim with the details of his real estate business and organized events at Holy Cross School and Parish. She was one of the founding mothers of the Holy Cross School Mothers' Club. These were busy, eventful years as her children became adults. When they had all graduated and gone on to their own lives, mom became involved in many local groups. She was active in the Catholic Womans' Club sponsoring events to promote education and social assistance. Tacoma Yacht Club Shipmates was another interest. Several times she served as President of the Holy Cross Altar Society always keeping in mind her devotion to her faith. She supported many other charitable causes and individuals who struggled with difficult situations. After the early death of her son, William, to heart disease, and the death of her husband, Jim, three years later, mom's life took another turn, Marjorie was always known as a most independent woman, especially for her times. The real estate company James had built was still there, and mom took over running the office successfully for several years, even building up the business until the company was sold. Then mom had time for grandchildren, relatives, friends and travel. Going from a stay-at-home wife and mother to a successful business woman was remarkable, courageous shift for a woman of her generation. She was a model and mentor to her three daughters and her four granddaughters. After the sale of the company, Marjorie retired and lived by herself in the log house. In 1987 her younger brothers, Bob Gallagher and Father William Gallagher built a home next door where they joined her in retirement. There she lived on her own until her eyesight failed, making it difficult for her to be alone. When she was young, she watched the Tobey Jones Home being built in her neighborhood. At the age of 90, she entered there as her last move in north Tacoma. Many Thanks are due to the staff at Our Place. They provided mom with security and warmth in her later years. Marjie was recognized by all as a spirited, compassionate and philanthropic woman. She was a faithful supporter of her parish, Holy Cross, where she was baptized, confirmed, married and will be buried. Mom was a great communicator and listener. She wrote letters and postcards to all she knew to keep in touch. Marjorie is survived by her brother, Father William Gallagher. She is also survived by her three daughters and sons-in-law; Maureen Kessi (Bill) of Scappoose, Oregon; Ann Ransom (Ed) of Federal Way; and Sheila McCanta (Mike) of Pt. Richmond, CA. Her eleven grandchildren will miss her advice, cards and friendly chats. Her seven great-grandchildren will miss her smiles and hugs. Funeral Mass will be celebrated by her brother Father William Gallagher on Tuesday, May 24, 2005, 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church. The Rosary will be recited Monday, May 23, 2005, 7:00p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com . Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home. 253-572-6003