Michael Edward McDermott

Michael Edward McDermott

Morristown, TN

Captain Michael Edward McDermott, age 76, of Morristown, formerly of Saint Petersburg, Florida, passed away on October 27, 2024. He was a retired veteran of the United States Air Force where he served as a tactical fighter pilot. After serving our country, he received his Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and went on to work at Duane Arnold Energy Center for 21 years. Michael dedicated his time to Habitat for Humanity and was very active in his church community, including participation in the men’s prayer group.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Margaret McDermott, as well as his aunt and uncles.

He is survived by his spouse of 55 years, Sally Jo McDermott; his daughter, Erin Catherin Smith (Larry;) his son, Sean Michael McDermott (Julie); his grandchildren, Brendan Michael Smith and Caitlin Marie Smith; his sisters, Ruth (Mike) McGuiness and Dolores (Roger) Reddan; and many nieces and nephews.

Michael’s warmth and kindness will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His enduring spirit and the impact he made on the lives of others will forever be remembered.

Michael's dates were from October 10, 1948 - October 27, 2024 but the dash between his dates does not tell how he lived his life. His dash was so much more than that. His dash cannot list all of things he did, or all of the lives he touched. Michael and Sally were able to travel the world extensively but his happiest times were spent with his family or helping others. His dash filled 76 years of a live well lived. He was very loved and will be very missed.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Michael's honor to the Wounded Warrior Project.