June 5 Funeral Services in Miami, Fla. for Phil C. Gallagher, 79

Phil C. Gallagher, a long-time Florida insurance agent, litigation consultant and expert witness passed away peacefully in Miami June 1. Gallagher, 79, was surrounded by his family at the time of his death.

Phil was a well-known insurance industry veteran, with more than 50 years of experience. He was known as a considerate, generous person, who was very active in the insurance industry.

Before becoming a litigation consultant and expert witness, Gallagher sold his book of business to Head Beckham Insurance in Miami and maintained business relations with the firm. He wrote all types of insurance and was involved in the successful acquisition and merger of many insurance agencies. He was a litigation consultant and expert witness regarding the customs and practices in the insurance industry.

A Florida native, Phil attended The Wharton School/University of Pennsylvania, University of Connecticut – CPCU Institute, University of Florida – Advanced Insurance Courses – Gainesville, Fla., University of Miami – B.B.A, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Commercial Pilot with Instrument and Instructor’s Rating – Miami, Fla. He was the youngest person to qualify for and be issued a commercial pilot’s license. He served in the U.S. Maritime Service/U.S. Naval Reserves as a Midshipman serving in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Pacific Theaters of War.

Phil is listed in “Who’s Who In Insurance”; “Who’s Who In Risk Management”; “Who’s Who Among Professional Insurance Agents” and was a recipient of the Mitchell Stalling Memorial Award 2004 recipient for meritorious service to the property and casualty insurance industry.

Gallagher was an Underwriting Member of Lloyd’s of London, and a member of numerous insurance organizations, such as Independent Insurance Agents of Dade County; Professional Insurance Agents, Florida Association of Insurance Agents and others. He was an instructor at various insurance schools. Gallagher held licenses for all types of insurance.
Phil was a member of the Emerald Society; International Wine & Food Society; Surf Club; Surf Club Debutante Ball Committee; La Gorce Country Club; Miami Shores Country Club; Committee of 100; and president of the Palm Bay Condo Assoc..

Phil is survived by his daughters Pamela Lessig of Arden, N.C. and Vivien Scott, of Ashburn, Ga.; and his granddaughter Hope Lessig.

Visitation will be held at Coffers-Kolski-Combs Funeral Home, 10931 NE 6th Ave, Miami, Fla. from 5-7 p.m. Sunday June 4. The funeral will be at 11 a.m., Monday June 5 in the chapel of the Miami Shores Presbyterian Church, 602 NE 96th St, Miami, Fla.