Clifton Wray Gallagher entered this world on March 26, 1947, in Sacramento, California, already destined to make noise, gather people, and leave a mark wherever he went. Larger than life in laughter, presence, and heart, Clifton lived boldly, loved deeply, and never did anything halfway.

Raised in a bustling household of seven brothers and one sister, Clifton learned early how to survive, compete, laugh loudly, and stand his ground. Life was lean, but spirits were strong. As the son of Jesseline and Ollie Gallagher, he inherited his father's respect for hard work and honest hands—values that stayed with him every step of the way.

During the Vietnam War, Clifton answered the call to serve, joining the United States Navy aboard the USS Holder, a Gearing-class destroyer based out of Norfolk, Virginia. While stationed there, fate stepped in wearing a smile and in dad's words "Great Legs" —Linda Kay Burgess. The two were married on April 10, 1968, beginning a partnership filled with devotion, resilience, and plenty of laughter.

Clifton's heart grew even larger with the arrival of his first child, a daughter Cheryl Sue, born April 18, 1969, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, while he was deployed on an East Pacific assignment. Though oceans separated them at times, his love never wavered.

After the birth of their second child, Clifton Wray II, Clifton completed his military service and returned home to Sacramento, where he worked alongside his brother Edward in tape, texture, and sheetrock. It was tough work, but Clifton was tougher—and proud to provide for his growing family.

On January 21, 1972, Clifton welcomed his youngest son, Timothy Scott, born in Sacramento, California. Their bond was strong, steady, and unshakable—a connection rooted in loyalty and trust that endured throughout Clifton's life.

One of the most powerful chapters of Clifton's journey came through transformation. Choosing faith and family, he stepped away from alcoholism and embraced The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with sincerity and courage. On April 10, 1981, Clifton and Linda, together with their children, were sealed for time and all eternity in the Oakland California Temple—a sacred promise that defined the rest of his life.

And then there was Clifton the Legend….He was the life of every party, the master of pranks, and the man who could turn any gathering into a memory. He adored playing Santa Claus—not just for his own family, but for anyone lucky enough to cross his path. Water might suddenly appear from nowhere. Jokes were constant. Smiles were guaranteed.

A collector of everything (and finder of treasures "along the side of the road"), Clifton always had the perfect tool for any situation. And if he didn't—he'd somehow make one.

Fishing, however, was his true magic. A master angler, Clifton could catch fish where others saw nothing. Watching him fish was like watching a miracle unfold—lures landing with pinpoint accuracy, fearless dives to retrieve them, and stories so good they almost didn't need embellishment. He passed this passion on freely, turning ordinary days into lifelong memories.

Weekends were sacred in their own way—Saturday strolls at Denio's Farmer's Market or at the neighbors house helping fix something. Looking sharp as a tack on Sundays, ready to renew his baptismal covenants, loving others and growing spiritually was a constant goal of his. Classic country music humming from the garage while he was tinkering and lawn chairs at the ready when the work was done … laughter echoing, and love filling every quiet space.

And oh—could he cook. The smells from Clifton's kitchen or backyard were legendary. His potato salad, chicken and dumplings, Thanksgiving stuffing, hamburger stew, goulash, fried chicken and spaghetti were not just meals—they were invitations. When those aromas filled the air, everyone knew two things were coming: a full belly and a long, well-earned nap.

Throughout his life, Clifton lived without barriers, meeting people where they were and treating everyone with dignity and respect. One of his favorite questions—often asked with a knowing smile—was, "Did you pray about it?" It was his gentle reminder to pause, trust, and look upward.

Now, Clifton has transitioned to a place where faith becomes sight—where he can be everywhere at once, watching over those he loves, with Linda by his side once more.

Clifton was joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Linda Kay Burgess Gallagher; his parents, Jesseline and Ollie Gallagher; and his seven brothers: James Wesley Gallagher, Leroy Jesse Gallagher Sr., William Thomas Gallagher, Edward Leon Gallagher, Donald Fredrick Gallagher, Robert Coleman Gallagher and Richard Keith Gallagher.

He leaves behind his sister, Jessie Marie Gallagher Marquez; his children: Cheryl Sue Hammond, Clifton Wray Gallagher II, and Timothy Scott Gallagher; his grandchildren: Adalyn Neilson, Amber Wayman, Erin Apple, Ashley Alardin, Michael Gallagher, Christopher Apple, Emily Pinkham, Kiersten Gallagher, Alec Hendren, Chelsie Gallagher, Ethan Gallagher, Logan Apple, Darris Gallagher, Lily McCubbin, Benjamin Hendren, Hannah Gallagher, Caleb Apple, Alexea Hendren, Fisher Gallagher, Izabella Apple, and Boston Apple; and his great-grandchildren: Ansel Pinkham, Archer Wayman, Brooklyn Apple, Collin Apple, Denali Hargrave, Ivy Gallagher, Jason Kahn, Kaladin Pinkham, Kaydence Gallagher, Kingsley Carillo, LeAnder Toner, Legend Apple, Neva Hargrave, Phoenix Alardin, Rivelynn Pinkham, Salem Apple, Santiago Carillo, Waylon Robison, Forrest Apple and Mateo McCubbin.

Services For The Greatest Fisherman, and best husband, dad, grandpa, great grandpa and friend ever will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Utah Veterans Cemetery, 17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale, Utah