Arthur William McDermott

Arthur William McDermott, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on May 5, 1929, in the Bronx, New York, to Arthur Joseph McDermott and Mary O’Flaherty. Arthur lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, family, and community.

Arthur graduated from Fordham University in 1950 and soon after answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army during the Korean War. He proudly served for two years before returning to civilian life. In 1958, he married the love of his life, Mary Josephine Naughton, a spirited woman from Donegal, Ireland, who became his lifelong partner. Together, they settled on Long Island, New York, where they raised their three children: Kevin Gerard, Ellen Marie and Anne Terese’ McDermott.

A dedicated professional, Arthur spent 34 years with Equitable Life Insurance Company, retiring in the late 1980s. Following his retirement, he and Mary moved to Beverly Hills, Florida, where they embraced a new chapter of life. Arthur quickly became a pillar of his new community, immersing himself in Our Lady of Grace Church and taking on leadership roles, including president of the Irish American Club. He was also an active member of the Moose Club, The American Legion, and the Knights of Columbus, where his warmth and commitment left a lasting impression.

An avid golfer, Arthur found joy and camaraderie on the fairways, a passion he carried into his Florida years. His athletic spirit, rooted in a lifetime of discipline and strength, shone brightly as he ran two marathons—one in 1988 and another in 1989—as he approached his 60th birthday, showcasing his remarkable vigor and determination well into his later years.

Arthur was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Naughton McDermott, who passed away 20 years ago, and his sister, Aileen McEvily. He also mourned the loss of his dear daughter, Anne Terese’ McDermott Panzner, who left this world approximately 20 years ago after a battle with cancer, and her husband, Walter Panzner, who passed away 21 years ago. Despite these heartaches, Arthur remained a steadfast source of love and strength for his family and friends.

He leaves behind a legacy through his surviving children, Kevin (Leslie) McDermott and Ellen McDermott (John) Ward, and his eight cherished grandchildren: Maggie Ward, Brendan Ward (Victoria), Matthew Ward, Kaitlin Panzner, Sierra Panzner Shevlin (Kyle), Mercy McDermott, David McDermott, and Eden McDermott. His closest friend, Jan Woodbury, along with countless dear friends, will deeply miss his kind spirit and unwavering companionship.

Arthur’s life was defined by his devotion to family, faith, loyalty and service. His humor, generosity, and steady presence touched all who knew him. He will be remembered fondly and missed dearly.