James J. A. Gallagher

Who is James J. A. Gallagher?

James J. A. Gallagher is a former Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Friends and fellow politicians described Mr. Gallagher as a joy to be associated with, and a courageous individual who dealt with his serious medical problems with a positive attitude. Both Milton Berkes, a lifelong family friend and political ally, and Thomas Mellon, chairman of the Bucks County Democratic Party, considered Mr. Gallagher a mentor. "Jim was, without a doubt, one of the great politicians I've ever known and one of the most courageous people I've ever known," Raddi said. "He had amazing determination and will."

A Philadelphia native, Mr. Gallagher moved to Levittown during the 1950s. He labored as a bus mechanic, and in 1957 he was asked by the Bristol Township Democratic Party to run for the state legislature against an incumbent, A. Patrick Brennan, whom he beat. Mr. Gallagher was very effective during his 28 years in Harrisburg, said Berkes, who served with Mr. Gallagher in the House between 1967 and 1974.