Carol M. McDermott
July 19, 1953 – August 31, 2021
Carol M. McDermott, age 68, died peacefully on August 31 after a long illness. Carol was born on July 19, 1953 to the late Thomas J. and the late Marian (nee Caraher) McDermott. She joined an older brother and later became a big sister to nine younger siblings. She attended St. John Fisher School, where she became unpopular with the nuns early on by pulling the fire alarm in first grade, which led to the evacuation of the entire school. Continuing on to Longwood (Academy of Our Lady, Class of 1971) she was known for her red hair and bubbly personality. She worked at Amtrak in the early seventies and eventually became a talented paralegal at different law firms in Chicago. In her lifetime, Carol had lots of different jobs, saving the best for last. She retired as a receptionist with the Jewish Vocational Services in 2018, where she found her work rewarding. She loved being from a big, South side Irish Catholic family and was proud to have her aunts and uncles as role models. She often remarked how lucky we were to have been raised by such good people. More precious than anything to Carol were her 27 nieces and nephews; great aunt of ten, soon to be 11 nieces and nephews. She relished every phone call and text, which lifted her spirits when she became homebound. She faced her illnesses and accepted her limitations with grace mixed with stubbornness. She had wonderful doctors including, Dr. Kim, who walked with her on her journey, and provided her comfort and amazing care. In addition, she was especially cared for by her cousin Eileen McDermott. She will be missed by her siblings, Thomas J. Jr. (Julia), Ann (the late Robert Newman), Maureen (Richard) Lillis, John (Laurie), Janet (John) Revane, Marybeth (Kevin) McCarthy, Edward (Bernadette), Michael (Maura), Patricia (Michael) Connelly and James Ret. CFD (Paula) McDermott. Visitation Saturday, 9:30 to 11 a.m. at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, 7740 S. Western Avenue, Chicago. Family and friends will gather for Mass at 11 a.m.
September 11, 2021 – 11:00am cst
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