Geoffrey M. Gailey

Geoffrey M. Gailey, 70, of Indianapolis, passed away on September 21st, surrounded by his loving family. Geoff was born on June 23rd, 1955 in Niagara Falls, NY to Barbara and Bob Gailey.

After what Geoff would describe as an idyllic childhood—filled with playing varsity basketball, football, and tennis alongside his three brothers—he went on to study and graduate from Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations.

Geoff began what would become an exceptionally successful and fulfilling career in Human Resources at Armour Foods. He would go on to work for Fisher-Price, Quaker Oats, Paper Art, Solo Cup Company, Indianapolis Power & Light, and eventually retired as Senior Vice President of Human Resources for Miller Pipeline in 2023. In 2021, Geoff was named Indiana Human Resources Professional of the Year. He strove to make the workplace one filled with laughter and joy, and he will be remembered lovingly by countless colleagues.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Geoff supported many organizations and causes within Indianapolis. He served on the boards of Gleaners Food Bank, United Way of Central Indiana, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Maestro Open.

Geoff’s incredible musical talents were shared openly with anyone who would listen. He was a devoted member of the Holy Spirit at Geist choir and was also the founder, lead singer, and guitarist for the rock band Nucklehead, which was a fixture at Colts games, weddings, and community events. He was an avid fan of the Colts, Pacers, and Fever.

In retirement, he loved to travel to visit friends from his Chi Psi Fraternity days, play music and “workout” at Lifetime Fitness—which really meant walking around and talking to everyone.

But despite all of Geoff’s professional success and philanthropic efforts, the thing he took the most pride in was his family. Geoff married his fifth-grade crush, Peggy McMahon Gailey, on November 25th, 1978, and together they raised three children: Ryan, Michael, and Megan.

Geoff and Peggy became beloved members of the Lawrence Township Schools and Athletics community. He often said his favorite moments in life were spent coaching his two sons and daughter in their athletic pursuits. He will lovingly be remembered as “Coach Gailey” — or simply “Coach” — by many.

Geoff was predeceased by his parents, Barbara and Bob Gailey, and his beloved aunt, Jane Gailey. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Gailey; his three children—Ryan, Michael, and Megan; six grandchildren; and his three brothers—Robert (“Buzz”) Gailey, Tom Gailey, and his twin brother, Peter Gailey.

Geoff was an incredibly generous man who loved being one of the brightest lights in every room. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to United Way of Central Indiana or Lewiston Council on the Arts. And above all else: sing with joy and be kind to a stranger, in Geoff’s honor.