James Gilligan

James (Jim) Gilligan, 95, passed away on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. Born on November 18, 1928, Jim told many stories of his days growing up in South Philly in that post-Depression Era. His stories also covered his time spent in the Philippines during the World War II period. He was honorably discharged from the (then) U.S. Army Air Force in 1947.  

Jim and his two brothers would become journeyman electricians in IBEW Local 98. Jim worked for electrical contractor Loughead Electric for many years, primarily at Scott Paper, where he would later work direct as an electrical estimator and construction supervisor, and eventually, retire.

Jim and his wife Dolly bought a house on Westbridge Road in Briarcliffe when the view out the back windows was a golf course. They would later move to Holmes, PA.

Jim was a long-time member of the local American Legion and VFW posts, and the Schoolhouse Senior Center in Folsom. He was a daily breakfast customer at the Train Stop restaurant in Secane, PA for many years, where he met many friends and acquaintances. He loved to golf in his day, and would sing an Irish song at the drop of a hat.

He is pre-deceased by his wife, Dolly (nee Zuber), his parents, James and Catherine Gilligan (nee Feeney), and 2 brothers, Jack and Tom. Survived by his children, Patricia Devine (Tim), James Gilligan (Sharon), Stacie Gilligan, and Kelly Smith. 

Also survived by grandchildren, Shaun Gilligan (Tessa), Casey Gilligan, Maddy Gilligan, Samantha Devine LaFlame (AJ), Summer Garmon, Jeffrey Smith, and Erika Smith, Devine step-grandchildren, Timothy, Trish, Todd, Tom, and Troy, and many great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Tuesday, February 13 at Our Lady of Fatima, Secane, PA. Visitation 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, Mass at noon, followed by lunch. 

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Media VFW Post 3460, 11 Hilltop Avenue, Media, PA 19063.