Barbara Mary McDermott

Barbara Mary McDermott passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on October 15th 2024, at the age of 87. She lived a wonderful life filled with faith, love, family and friendship and was truly a shining light of humor and kindness in the lives of all who knew her.

Barbara was born on April 17, 1937, in Indianapolis to Louisa and Paul Wernsing. She shared many priceless memories with her sister Kathy and their beloved grandma and grandpa Anna and Louis Kirsch.

A proud graduate of St. Joan of Arc and St. Agnes Academy, where she graduated in 1955, Barb played the starring role of “Penny” in the theater production of A Lucky Penny. After graduating, she attended Marion College and later pursued a career at L.S. Ayres Department Store as a Fashion Model.

She married the love of her life, Russell “Bo” McDermott, on April 4, 1959, and together they created a beautiful family. Barb and Bo’s love of summer vacations on Lake Michigan spread to all of their children and grandchildren, as they continue building many memories filled with relaxing days on the beach and spectacular sunsets.

During the early years of her marriage, Barb volunteered many hours with the Junior Group of the Indianapolis Symphony, organizing luncheon- fashion shows, serving as the orientation chairman, new vice-chairman and secretary, as well as the chairman of the Symphony Ball. She also dedicated much of her time to the Children’s Bureau of Indianapolis honoring her commitment to help children in need.

Barbara began working as the parish secretary at St. Luke Catholic Church in 1979 and retired in 2010, welcoming visitors and parishioners with love and grace for over 30 years.

Known for her vivacious spirit and quick wit, Barbara was adored by many. She was affectionately called “Mommo,” by her grandchildren, and she brought joy and warmth to everyone she met.

Though she has departed this world, Barb is now reunited with her beloved husband “Bo,” and together they will continue to surround us with their love and light. As we celebrate her life and legacy, we remember her as a beautiful soul who left an indelible mark on our hearts. We are grateful for the moments we shared and the love she gave so freely.

Barbara is survived by her sister, Kathy Tomasewski; children Kevin, Michelle (Tim) Stark; Cecelia; Sheila (Dennis Sipe) McDermott-Sipe; 7 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 10-11:30 am at St. Luke Catholic Church 7575 Holiday Drive East, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260 followed by a funeral Mass at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Barbara’s memory can be made to the Children’s Bureau of Indianapolis, 1575 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. St., Indianapolis IN, 46202, https://fireflyin.org/ and the Society of St. Vincent DePaul, 3001 E. 30th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46218, svdpusa.org.

Leppert Mortuary assisting the family. You are invited to visit www.leppertmortuary.com to share a personal memory of Barbara.