Sigmond Galloway gained fame as a jazz singer. He also became widely recognized for his turbulent marriage to the renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson in 1964.
Galloway’s notoriety stems primarily from his association with Jackson and the publicized challenges within their relationship, including allegations of abuse and infidelity.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Sigmond Galloway |
| Gender | Male |
| Date Of Birth | May 18, 1922 |
| Place Of Birth | Wetumpka, Alabama, USA |
| Date Of Death | May 18, 1972 |
| Age On Death | 50 Years |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Famous For | Mahalia Jackson’s Ex-Husband |
| Parents | Randolph Galloway & Mary Lee (Williams) Courtney |
| Siblings | 2 |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Wife | Mahalia Jackson |
| Children | None |
| Profession | Jazz Singer |
| Net Worth | $100,000 |
Sigmond Galloway’s Early Life & Background
Sigmond Galloway was born on May 18, 1922, in Wetumpka, Alabama, USA. At the time of his death, he was 50 years of age.
His zodiac sign is Taurus. Taurus individuals are often characterized as reliable, patient, practical, and persistent.
Galloway belonged to the Black or African American ethnicity and held American nationality.
Details about Galloway’s early life are relatively limited. However, he likely grew up in the southern United States during a time marked by racial segregation and the Jim Crow era.
This environment likely influenced his experiences and shaped his perspective as a jazz singer.
Galloway’s journey into the music industry and his eventual marriage to Mahalia Jackson, a prominent gospel singer, are noteworthy aspects of his early life and career.
Sigmond Galloway’s Educational Background
Details about Sigmond Galloway’s educational background are scarce, with no specific information available regarding his schooling or formal education.
Galloway’s focus and recognition primarily stem from his career as a jazz singer, suggesting that his expertise and skills in music were likely honed through practical experiences rather than academic training.
Sigmond Galloway’s Professional Career
Sigmond Galloway, a distinguished jazz vocalist, began his professional career after transitioning from the construction business to pursue his passion for music.
Born in Alabama and later finding his musical footing in Gary Lake, Indiana, Galloway’s velvety voice and heartfelt performances established him as a prominent figure in the jazz scene.
With roots in Alabama and a flourishing career in Indiana, Galloway’s musical legacy resonates across boundaries, leaving a lasting impact through his soulful performances.
Sigmond Galloway’s Parents & Siblings
Sigmond Galloway was born to Randolph Galloway and Mary Lee (Williams) Courtney. He had two known siblings: Emma Galloway Brannon and Sylvia Christine Galloway.
Not much information is available about his parents or siblings beyond their names. Galloway’s family background reflects his roots in Alabama, where he likely spent his early years before pursuing his career in music.
Sigmond Galloway Was Married To Mahalia Jackson: Who Is She?
Mahalia Jackson, born on October 26, 1911, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was an American gospel singer hailed as the “Queen of Gospel.”
Rising to fame in the 1930s, Jackson’s powerful and emotive voice captivated audiences worldwide.
With iconic songs like “How I Got Over” and “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” she became a pioneer in gospel music, breaking barriers and spreading the genre’s influence.
Beyond her musical achievements, Jackson was also a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, using her platform to advocate for equality and justice. Her legacy as a musical icon and social activist continues to inspire generations.
How Did Sigmond Galloway & Mahalia Jackson Meet?
Sigmond Galloway met Mahalia Jackson through mutual friends while living in Gary, Indiana.
Despite Jackson’s busy schedule and numerous companions, she expressed feelings of loneliness, leading her to seek companionship with Galloway during her free time. Their friendship turned into a romantic relationship with time.
Mahalia Jackson Was Previously Married To Isaac “Ike” Hockenhull
Mahalia Jackson’s first marriage was to Isaac “Ike” Hockenhull in 1935. Ike, a chemist, impressed Jackson with his manners and attention. However, their union faced challenges, including financial difficulties due to Ike’s gambling problem.
Despite their initial connection, the marriage ended in divorce. This marriage marked a significant chapter in Jackson’s life, influencing her personal experiences and shaping her journey as a gospel singer and civil rights activist.
Sigmond Galloway Married Mahalia Jackson In 1964
In 1964, gospel singer Mahalia Jackson surprised her friends and associates by marrying Sigmond Galloway in her living room in Chicago.
Galloway, a former musician in the construction business, became Jackson’s second husband.
Despite her busy schedule, Jackson sought companionship with Galloway during her free time, leading to their unexpected but celebrated union, which lasted until their divorce in 1967.
His Wife, Mahalia Jackson, Faced Various Health Challenges
Mahalia Jackson faced various health challenges throughout her life, particularly as her schedule became more demanding.
She was diagnosed with sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease causing immune cell lumps in organs.
Despite public disclosure citing heart strain and exhaustion, doctors privately diagnosed her with heart attack and heart-involved sarcoidosis.
Jackson underwent numerous surgeries to alleviate sarcoidosis symptoms. Additionally, she struggled with uterine fibroids, which led to a hysterectomy.
These health issues impacted her ability to tour and perform, contributing to her decline in the 1960s and eventual death from heart failure and diabetes complications at age 60.
They Got Divorced In 1967: What Were The Reasons?
Mahalia Jackson and Sigmond Galloway got divorced in 1967. The divorce was prompted by various issues within their marriage, including arguments over financial matters and instances of domestic violence.
Despite efforts to reconcile, the couple ultimately decided to end their marriage. The exact reasons for their divorce may include irreconcilable differences and the inability to resolve ongoing conflicts.
After the divorce, Mahalia Jackson and Sigmond Galloway went their separate ways, with Jackson continuing her career as a gospel singer and Galloway leading a more private life.
His Ex-Wife, Mahalia Jackson, Was Friends With Martin Luther King Jr.
Mahalia Jackson and Martin Luther King Jr. shared a deep friendship and collaborative partnership during the civil rights movement.
Jackson often performed at civil rights events and rallies at King’s invitation, using her powerful voice to inspire and uplift audiences.
In private, Jackson served as a special confidante to King, offering support and encouragement during times of doubt.
King would sometimes call her in the early hours just to hear her sing over the phone, finding solace in her music.
Their bond was characterized by mutual respect and shared commitment to the fight for equality and justice.
Sigmond Galloway’s Children
There is no specific information available about Sigmond Galloway having children. It appears that he did not have biological children.
Mahalia Jackson, his wife, did not have children of her own but became a mother figure to a boy she met on the streets. Thus, Sigmond Galloway is not known to have had any children.
Sigmond Galloway Died In 1972
Sigmond Galloway tragically passed away at the age of 50. On his 50th birthday, May 18, 1972, he breathed his last in Gary, Lake, Indiana.
Following his divorce from Mahalia Jackson, Galloway’s life journey concluded relatively quietly. He did not actively seek public attention or engagement and chose to lead a private life.
Sigmond Galloway’s Net Worth At The Time Of Death
Sigmond Galloway’s net worth upon his death was approximately $100,000, while his wife Mahalia Jackson’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million.
