Thomas John Galligan

Thomas John Galligan, 77, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, in Princeton, New Jersey. Born on January 11, 1949, Tom spent his final years in New Jersey, but Massachusetts was always his true home - the place that shaped his character, his faith, and his lifelong passions.

Raised in North Dartmouth, MA, Tom graduated from Bishop Stang High School and earned his Bachelor of Science in Business from Southeastern Massachusetts University (now UMass Dartmouth). His career in the architectural glass block industry spanned many decades, where he was known for his integrity, his fierce competitiveness, and an unwavering work ethic. He took great pride in supporting his children's and grandchildren's activities - showing up and offering guidance with the same determination he brought to every part of his life.

Tom was the proud father of two children, Kerry Caldwell of Millstone Township, NJ, and her husband, Daniel Caldwell, and his son, Thomas "TJ" Galligan, Jr., of Myrtle Beach, SC, and his late wife, Dina. His former wife, Kathleen Galligan, remained his closest friend and an extraordinary support to him throughout his later years.

He is survived by his twin brother, Terrence Galligan of Acushnet, MA, and his wife, Alison, and his sister, Jean Tierney of Mattapoisett, MA, who was predeceased by her husband, Dr. James Tierney. Tom was the beloved grandfather of Thomas "Tre" Galligan III of Raleigh, NC, and his wife, Pressley, as well as Genevieve Galligan of Florence, SC, and Brennan Caldwell of Millstone Township, NJ. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, all of whom he cherished.

He is also remembered by extended family whom he embraced as his own, including Julianna Robertson, Michaela Robertson, Joshua Caldwell, his wife, Jessica, and their children, Parker and Ivy, and Daniel Caldwell, Jr., his wife, Shannon, and their son, Andrew.

Tom was predeceased by his sister Joan Capone and her husband, Paul, as well as his parents, Edward and Rita Galligan.

A man of deep faith, Tom was a lifelong and active participant in the Catholic Church. His spiritual life grounded him, guided him, and sustained him through every season.

Tom's passions were many, but none greater than sports, fitness, and competition. A devoted fan of all Boston and New England teams, he brought the same intensity to his own athletic pursuits. Golf was his lifelong love - beginning as a young caddie at the New Bedford Country Club with his brother and continuing throughout his life. He played in tournaments across the country and enjoyed playing golf around the world, forming friendships that lasted decades.

He also spent many years coaching and refereeing hockey - influencing athletes at the youth, high school, collegiate, Olympic, and even NHL levels. His mentorship, discipline, and deep understanding of the game left a lasting mark on countless players and colleagues.

One of the more unexpected joys of Tom's life came during his years in Pittsburgh, when his deep knowledge of hockey led to a quirky and memorable experience: a small role in the film Sudden Death. Late one night, while listening to sports radio - as he often did - he heard the hosts and film crew discussing hockey with less-than-perfect accuracy. Tom called in to set the record straight. Impressed by his expertise, a producer invited him to the movie set. A few days later, they liked him so much they put him in the film. His family delighted in seeing him on the big screen, and still smile whenever the movie appears on television - often, amusingly, when traveling abroad.

Among Tom's greatest joys were the Thanksgiving gatherings he hosted each year for his extended family. More than forty people would crowd into his home for food, laughter, stories, and the kind of warmth that only he could orchestrate. Those celebrations became a cherished anchor for a family that grew, spread out, and always found its way back to his table.

Above all, Tom will be remembered for his loyalty, his humor, his devotion to family, and the unmistakable spark he brought into every room. His legacy lives on in the children, grandchildren, and extended family who loved him deeply.

His Funeral will be held Monday, May 18, 2026 at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Julie Billiart Church at 10 AM and burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Sunday, May 17 from 4-7 PM in the funeral home.