Renata D Gallagher

passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, in her Manhattan home of over 50 years on April 6, 2017, age 83. Raised in Scarsdale and educated in its public schools, Renata attended Rosemont and Manhattanville Colleges. She obtained a BA in history (minor French) from Manhattanville Coll. in 1954; her father was a trustee of the college. She held a Master’s Degree in Education from Fordham Univ. and worked at Sheed and Ward, a Catholic publishing house, and later as a teacher, before marriage to Robert Paul Gallagher in 1961 (div. 1974). Re-entering the workforce, Renata studied to be a paralegal at NYU. She had a successful and fulfilling career at Chadbourne & Parke, and then Emmet, Marvin and Martin. She particularly enjoyed her work with young associates. Renata volunteered with multiple organizations incl. Her Justice, and the Fifth Avenue Community Center of Harlem, and worked with the homeless, often staying overnight in the local shelter. She was a lay minister at St. Ignatius Loyola Church, her parish of over 50 years; and attended the House of the Redeemer Bible Study group until her death. Renata took particular, and well-deserved, pride in her roles of mother and grandmother. She enjoyed tennis and the NYT crossword. Renata also had a passion for attending New York City cultural events, and instilled this passion in her children. She was a valued friend to many, and was known for her gracious manner and generous spirit. Survived by children Renata C. Gallagher and Robert P. Gallagher; daughters-in-law Ann K. F. Gallagher (Renata) and Jean C. Gallagher (Robert); grandchildren Kieran, Declan, James and Nora; and brothers Robert C. and James W. Dohrenwend. She was predeceased by her parents Otto E. and Constance Wilckes Dohrenwend, sister Claire C. and brother Paul B. Dohrenwend. Viewing and memorial service at Frank Campbell Funeral Chapel in Manhattan, 1076 Madison Ave., Thursday, April 13, 4-7 PM. A memorial mass and burial will be held in the summer. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Her Justice, the Society of the Sacred Heart (RSCJ.org), or a cultural organization of your choice."