Ann M. Gallagher

Ann M. Gallagher, age 60 of Novi, passed away unexpectedly on May 10, 2024. She was born on February 6, 1964, in Jamestown, North Dakota; daughter of Kenneth F. Gallagher and Carol A. Reardon.

Ann graduated from East Lansing High School in the class of 1982. Driven by determination, she pursued her education at Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor of Social Work degree. During her time at ASU, she held the position of Resident Advisor at her dormitory and was recognized as a little sister of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. Continuing her academic journey, Ann obtained her Master of Social Work from Michigan State University, where she also served as the Resident Hall Director of her dormitory. Through her roles as Resident Advisor and Residential Hall Director, Ann positively impacted numerous young lives and formed many lasting friendships. Transitioning into her professional career, Ann embarked on a career path as Director of Medical Social Work at Battle Creek Regional Hospital in the early 1990s. Throughout her career, she dedicated herself to advocating for those in need, ultimately retiring in 2014.

Ann was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, yet she refused to let it define or deter her. Her achievements were remarkable, her bonds with friends unbreakable, and the love she shared with her family boundless. Throughout her childhood, she frequented Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Chicago, exploring innovative treatments and learning to navigate life with the condition. Starting her education at the Anne Carlsen Center in North Dakota, she later attended East Lansing. Ann was the first child with a physical disability to be integrated into mainstream classes in the East Lansing Public Schools system courageously creating a path for many persons with physical barriers.

Ann embodied strength, bravery, and independence, alongside compassion and loyalty. Her talent for communication was her gift to the world. With an active social life, she maintained deep connections with her family, particularly cherishing her role as an aunt to her nieces and nephews, who brought her immense pride and joy. Known for her quick wit and delightful sense of humor, Ann was a sought-after friend. She frequently traveled to visit family and friends. Ann enjoyed swimming and gardening, boasting a green thumb when it came to plants. Cats held a special place in her heart, providing her with comfort and companionship as her cherished fur babies. Ann's unwavering devotion made her an incredible daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.

Ann is survived by her mother and stepfather, Carol and Jon Phillips; her stepmother Saichon Gallagher; her siblings, Gregg (Leslie) Gallagher, Tamra Pickering, and Stephanie (Steve) Varner; her stepsister Nisa; her brother-in-law Peter Randazzo; her nieces and nephews, Maxwell G. Pickering, Meagan (Andy) Eggert, Gabrielle Shoucair, Nicholas (Gabrielle) Mortimer, Jeffrey J. Varner, Lauren K. Gallagher, Ryan K. Gallagher, Joseph (Nina) Randazzo, Peter A. Randazzo, Jr., and Jack R. Randazzo; and her great nieces and nephews, Dawson, Eliza, Zachariah, Abram, and Mariella. She is also loved by many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her father Kenneth F. Gallagher, her sister Kerstin M. Randazzo, and her brother-in-law Steve Pickering.

Memorial visitation will be held Thursday, May 23, 2024, from 10am until Noon with a celebration of Ann’s life beginning at Noon at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to Michigan Humane , 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, MI 48025.