CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF AMY GALLAGHER, Luke 14:12's Executive Director 1998-2010
A LIFE OF SERVICE
OCTOBER 4, 1945 - AUGUST 24, 2021
It is with a heavy, but grateful heart, that we honor the life of Amy Gallagher. Amy passed away peacefully in her sleep last Tuesday, Aug 24, at her home in Southport, NC.
Luke 14:12 was founded by Laura B. McCray. After Miss Laura’s death, Amy served as Luke 14:12’s first Executive Director from 1998 until her retirement in 2010. Those who know her would tell you that Amy’s life was defined by her dedication and service to the homeless community. Many of our volunteers will remember Amy Gallagher as the first person who invited them to experience the hospitality Luke 14:12. Like many of you, Amy Gallagher began as a volunteer and stepped up to accept the position of Executive Director when Laura McCray passed away. Amy helped shepherd Luke 14:12 into becoming a 501(c)3 in order to better serve those who are homeless in Nashville. As a member of East Brentwood Presbyterian Church, her impact is still felt through their volunteer efforts and outreach that support those who struggle to overcome life’s obstacles.
Amy’s presence is still felt today. Some of our current G.R.O.W. Program staff, who work in our kitchen also worked alongside Amy. When I was brought on as Executive Director to succeed her in 2010, she offered me training, as well as wisdom that I carry with me today. Even after her retirement, she continued to volunteer monthly at Luke 14:12 until she and her husband, Geoff, moved to North Carolina to be closer to family.
Amy’s leadership, especially through times of change, inspires us as we continue to accept the call to widen God’s gracious table. We continue to offer our prayers to her family and friends who say farewell to Amy — a great leader, servant, and remarkable person. In our grief, may we find comfort with the knowledge that she served well and and was loved well.
Her family has asked that gifts made in her memory can be made to the charity of one’s choice.
With gratitude,
Rev. Amy Dodson-Watts
“He said also to the one who had invited him, “When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.””