Neil J. McDermott

Neil Joseph McDermott, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2017 at the age of 54.

Neil was born to parents Mark and Mary (O’Connell) McDermott on September 29, 1962 in Wilmington, Delaware. He grew up in the Trolley Square area with six siblings. Neil attended and graduated from Salesianum High School. He was a diehard Philadelphia sports fan, a lover of the arts, and could often be found listening to his large collection of vinyl records. He loved to play tennis and basketball, go fishing, or just hang out and listen to talk radio. Neil was a unique and artistic person with a memorably tasteful fashion sense. 

Neil was incredibly kind, generous, and accepting. He had a very gentle and complex soul. In 1989, Neil became a father, and again in 1991. He loved his children completely, and was extremely proud of them throughout the entirety of their lives. He also enjoyed spending time with his siblings and parents. Neil was gifted at many things, notably cooking for his kids, playing sports in his youth, and even drawing. He was a “walking library” on various topics, and gladly shared this vast knowledge to those he knew and loved. Neil was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need - he even moved in with his mother when she fell ill and provided her with around the clock care. Neil was a devoted father, son, and sibling. 

In 2013, Neil retired from a 30 year career in the US Postal Service. He was well known and liked among his colleagues for his politeness and all-around great personality.

Neil is survived by his daughters, Maggie and Jill McDermott; his siblings, Mark, Mary, Jack, Mike, Dan and Pat McDermott; and the mother of his children, Jenny Beatson. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Mary McDermott.

Friends are invited to visit with the family at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Friday, March 24 beginning at 2:00PM.  All are welcome to remain  for a memorial service celebrating Neil's life which will begin at 3:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Neil may be made to Limen House, 600 W. 10th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 (www.limenhouse.org) or a charity of your choice.

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