Stephen James Gallager, 71, of Doe Hill, Virginia, passed away quietly Sept. 21, 2025, at home with loved ones.
He was born March 19, 1954, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a son of the late Donald Alexander and Sarah (Grundy) Gallager.
After graduating from Elmira College with a history degree, Mr. Gallager traveled extensively, eventually meeting his first wife, Leigh Deering, in 1978. They welcomed three sons while living near Bellingham, Washington.
In 1996 the family moved to Sugar Grove. In 2003, he married his second wife, Karen Anderson, and they bought and restored a farmhouse in Doe Hill, Virginia, where they hosted music nights and community get-togethers.
In 2021, he met Penny Armstrong, and they tended her beautiful home and rescued animals. She and her family lovingly cared for him at the end of his life.
He worked as an interpreter at the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton, Virginia, until 2016, where he shared traditional music, crafts, and trades with visitors. Known for his deep knowledge informed by a lifetime of reading, he loved conversations with friends and strangers about the histories and mysteries of the world. He was an excellent self-taught musician and cook, passions he shared with all, and passed on to his sons.
Surviving are his partner, Penny Armstrong of Doe Hill, Virginia; three sons, James Patrick Gallager and Rudy Deering Gallager, both of Gualala, California, and Donald Alexander Gallager and wife, Janesa of Kent, Washington; a brother, David Gallager; and three grandchildren, Elizabeth, Allison, and Patrick Gallager.
A graveside service was held Sept. 24 at Doe Hill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Highland County Humane Society, PO Box 435, Monterey, VA 24465.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.obaughfuneralhome.com.
