Colleen Ellen Gallagher

Colleen Ellen Gallagher, a cherished daughter of San Francisco, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026, at the age of 57. Surrounded by light and love, she concluded her remarkable journey after a long and courageous battle with a rare form of early onset Alzheimer’s Disease. Born on August 11, 1969, in San Francisco, California, to the late Francis and Dorothy Gallagher, Colleen was a beacon of joy and laughter. She shared a deeply loving bond with her family, which included her brothers, John (Stacy) and William (Jenny) Gallagher, her sister Sharon Talbott (Walter); her beloved nephews and nieces, and their respective families: Patrick Gallagher (Sierra), Jennifer Russo (Bill), Christina Haynes, Michael Gallagher (Sarah), Nicole Talbott, Lauren Talbott (James) and Joseph Gallagher; and her amazing chosen family, the Williams Family, Robert, Francesca, Franco and Nala. She was predeceased by her parents and her beloved niece, Kelly Gallagher, whom she held dear in her heart. Colleen’s education laid a strong foundation for her illustrious career. After graduating from Holy Name Grammar School in 1983 and Presentation High School in 1987, she pursued her passion for communications at Chico State University, graduating in 1992. Colleen's professional journey began in Public Relations in the vibrant heart of San Francisco, a city she held in her soul. Her path led her to the prestigious San Francisco Opera and later to the bustling cities of New York and Los Angeles, yet she always found her way back to the welcoming embrace of Marin County, her happy place. Colleen's love for music was as diverse as it was profound. A proud Dead Head, she was a super fan of Michael Jackson, Prince, and Motown, with a playlist as vibrant and eclectic as her personality. Her spirit was characterized by vibrance, quick wit, and an infectious love of laughter, qualities that endeared her to her countless friends and family. To her nieces and nephews, she was affectionately known as the "cool aunt," a title she wore with pride and joy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Colleen’s memory to the Alzheimer's Research Association, a cause close to her heart. Colleen's legacy is one of love, music, and laughter, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will forever be a melody in the hearts of those she touched.