John Joseph McDermott

John Joseph McDermott passed away peacefully with loved ones at his side on Friday, February 16, 2018. Jack, as he was known to everyone, was a beloved father, sibling and friend of many. He was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Shirley M. McDermott, and is survived by his beloved doberman, Maggie, two children (Brian McDermott and Dianne McDermott Brown), two sisters (Patricia Edgerton and Joan Garlatti) and four grandchildren (Sean McDermott, Megan McDermott, Aedan Brown and Ava Brown). He also leaves behind a dearest friend (Julie Camia), who was a faithful companion in later years.

Jack was born on August 5, 1936 in New Brunswick, NJ and spent his formative years there. After marrying Shirley in 1959, they moved to Bridgewater, NJ, where their 2 children were born. Later, they had residences on Lake Wallenpaupack (PA), Tierra Verde (FL) and Naples (FL) before finally settling in Cary, NC. Jack’s work career started as a line repairman in 1955 with NJ Bell Telephone Co., and in over 40 years with NJ Bell, later AT&T and AT&T Paradyne, Jack held numerous management positions, retiring his career as a Director of Labor Relations.

Jack was full of life and his love of the outdoors included sailing, fishing and hunting. He loved a good joke, was known to be a practical joker and storyteller, and had a deeply resonant, easily summoned laugh that was characteristic of his warm and positive personality. Jack was a tinkerer who could fix anything and a craftsman who could build anything, as he did when he tore down and rebuilt the house on Lake Wallenpaupack. He generously shared his talents with those around him, and served his friends and community by leading homeowner associations and devoting time to worthy causes such as Habitat for Humanity.

There will be a remembrance service at Apex Funeral Home (550 W. Williams Street in Apex, NC at 11:00am on Saturday, April 7.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Duke Hospice, 4321 Medical Park Drive, suite 10, Durham, NC 27704. Please note in Memory of John J. McDermott.

He will be missed by all who knew him.