Mannon Gallegly was royalty when it came to tomatoes. His first variety, the West Virginia ’63, was dubbed the ‘people’s tomato’ as it was released in 1963 and rereleased in 2013 to commemorate West Virginia’s 100th and 150th birthdays. He then created the West Virginia ‘17A ‘Mountaineer Pride’ and ‘17B ‘Mountaineer Delight’ varieties in honor of the 150th birthday of the WVU Davis College. In 2023, the fourth and final tomato, the WV ’23, was released under the name “Mannon’s Majesty,” a name selected by former Dean Darrell Donahue. A fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life’s work to improving this crop for generations of farmers and growers. and a man who maintained his very humble roots.
He was passionate about research and spent 30 years of his retirement helping to conduct research to develop heartier tomatoes. His career spanned 82 years as an expert in plant and soil sciences.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing yesterday of this majestic human being at the age of 101. Leaders and colleagues have shared their condolences on Dr. Gallegly’s passing. Details on services or tributes have not been released at this time, but we will share once that information becomes available.”
“While I am new to my role as dean of the WVU Davis College, Dr. Gallegly and his work were legendary. He embodied the true Mountaineer spirit of service and innovation. Even upon his retirement, he continued to dedicate his time – 30 years — to the University, its students and community. Mannon lived his life with a great sense of passion and purpose – a life certainly well lived.” ~ Jorge Atiles, associate vice president WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement and dean of the WVU Davis College
“I have known Mannon since the 1970s when I was a student in the College. Mannon is one of the most respected faculty members in the history of the Davis College. He connected well with everyone, especially students, and he has been a wonderful mentor to many, me included. His work ethic was exceptional. How many retired scientists still maintained a research program at the age of 100? Mannon was the consummate professional, always offering encouragement and direction. His favorite subject has always been Phytophthora. Regardless of the setting, Mannon always was able to work Phytophthora into any conversation.” ~ Mark Double, WVU Davis retiree and friend of Dr. Gallegly
Dr. Mahfuz Rahman, WVU Extension specialist in plant pathology, noted that Dr. Gallegly was proud of working for the people of West Virginia and doing his part to improve these important crops. Rahman said he often would hear Dr. Gallegly say, ‘Tomato growers of West Virginia need a blight resistant tomato variety so that they do not need to use a fungicide or very little in rainy and humid growing seasons.’ “I am thankful to my friend and colleague for his efforts to develop tomato varieties with higher blight resistance.” ~ Mahfuz Rahman, WVU Extension specialist – Plant Pathology
“Mannon Gallegly was a brilliant scientist whose work significantly broadened the field of plant pathology for the past decades. He laid the foundation for groundbreaking research for future generations to battle food insecurity. He was a mentor and a friend who challenged me to be innovative in my thinking and in my work. The world owes a debt of thanks to Mannon Gallegly. He will be missed.” ~ Bob Williams, WVU Davis College alumnus who worked as a grad student for Dr. Gallegly (’76 MS, plant pathology)
Those wishing to honor Dr. Gallegly can make a gift through the WVU Foundation to: https://give.wvu.edu/Mannon.
