Margaret Teresa (Galligan) Whitman

Maggie "Magee" (Galligan) Whitman passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday morning, April 21, 2017, in Indianapolis, Indiana.  She was born in 1929 in Ardkill More Townland, Cavan, Ireland.  She immigrated to the United States at 17 years of age to care for a family member in Ottawa Lake, Michigan.  She then moved to Sylvania, Ohio where she met her husband to be, Bill Whitman, in 1955.   

Maggie was the last surviving "Johnty" from her parents Kathryn Smith and John "T" Galligan.  Her siblings Patsy, Ben, John, Anna, May, Kathleen and Frank will be surely waiting for her with open arms in the land of the forever young, Tír na nÓg.  Her son Michael Patrick and wife, Ina Whitman, survive her. She was so very proud of her grandchildren, Michael Joseph (wife Sabrina) and Rachel Marie (husband to be Corey). She will be missed by her many nieces, nephews, and Godchildren.    

Known for her civil and charitable contributions, Maggie was an active supporter of the Sylvania Fire Department and Democratic Party of Lucas County.  Retired Assistant Fire Chief, Ralph Stallworth, stated, "An awesome lady; Irish and Democratic to the core.  She loved everyone. If you were a firefighter, she loved you even more!  I'm betting her husband, Bill, met her at the gate with a bouquet of green roses!" Her love and support for the town of Sylvania was unmeasurable.  

Maggie was a recognizable force.  If there were a job to do, she would make it happen.  Examples include local and national political campaigns, restoration of Saint Joseph Cemetery, The Franciscan Center and the annual Fourth of July celebration at Centennial Quarry.  She loved her work at Sautters Food Center, and was especially proud of her candy and wine departments.    

She also had the Irish gift of language.  Some of her more famous quotes were, "I don't love you a little, I love you a lot." "Live up and onwards." "Always keep a sticks distance." "Do it now - don't wait." "What are you, the boss of me?" "Go Bucks!" and "Up yours, Michael Patrick!" Her proudest achievement was to say, "I have four doctors in my family, not bad for an Irish immigrant. I did well, right?"  You did very well, Maggie!   

Maggie was a woman of faith and inspiration - always encouraging all to attend Sunday mass so that, "We can all enjoy the afterlife in heaven together." Lord knows she did not want to spend eternity alone without her friends and family.    

The celebration of her life visitation service will be held at Reeb Funeral Home, 5712 North Main Street, Sylvania, Ohio on Monday, May 1, 2017 (2:00 to 8:00 p.m.)  The funeral mass will be held at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 5373 Main Street, Sylvania, Ohio at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 2, 2017.    

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sylvania Fire Department and the Sylvania Area Family Services.