Patrick Dennis Gilligan

Mr. Patrick Dennis Gilligan, age 82, of Cumming, GA, passed away on January 28th, 2026. He will be remembered for his goofball sense of humor, his kindness, and his giant heart. He had a way of making people feel instantly at ease – he truly never met a stranger, and somehow could always find a connection with anyone, no matter where they were from. He loved making new friends, telling stories, and bringing laughter into the room. With his impish grin and quick wit, you could always tell when a zinger was coming.

A proud veteran, he served 24 years in the United States Air Force (4 active, 20 reserves), and carried that same dedication into every part of his life. He was especially proud to be a dad, and he worked hard to be a steady provider – not just financially, but emotionally, too.

In the quiet moments, he found joy in simple routines: back-to-back games of solitaire (shuffling so sharply he wore down the corners of the cards), billiards in the basement, movies, and college football every Saturday regardless of who was playing. He loved old cars (regretted selling his 1965 GTO), Sunday church, and the comfort of family traditions. And most of all, he loved his wife, Sheri. Whether they were out running errands or folding laundry at home, he was happiest just spending time with her.

No matter the circumstances, he had a gift for finding the brighter side. He didn’t see the clouds – only the blue sky. Through humor, listening, and prayer, he offered light to others in a way that will never be forgotten. He dreamed of visiting all 50 states, and having been to the Grand Tetons, he wanted to share them with Sheri one day. His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the laughter he sparked, and the love he gave so freely.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Frances (Kramer) Gilligan; siblings, Charlie Gilligan, Jim Gilligan; sister-in-law, Mary Gilligan; brother-in-law, Bob Hogue.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sheri Smallwood Gilligan; children; Robin Gilligan Roberts, Jaime (Joe) Santucci, Emily Gilligan, Dayna (Alex Bernier) Gilligan; grandchildren, Noah Roberts, Anthony Santucci, Luke Ostendorf; siblings, George Gilligan, Sandie Hogue, Vickie (Steve) Martin; sisters-in-law, Erlene Gilligan, Phila Gilligan, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, at 10:30 AM in the chapel of Ingram Funeral Home with Dr. Jeff Jackson officiating. An interment will be on Thursday, February 5th, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Georgia National Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Ingram Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026, from the hours of 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM.