Carole Ann McDermond's Obituary
Carole Ann McDermond (née McAdory), age 84, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, in Milford, Delaware. Born on April 18, 1940, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Carole lived a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and devotion to her family.
A proud graduate of St. Hubert’s High School in Philadelphia, Carole spent most of her life in the Philadelphia area and its surrounding suburbs. The family home on Adams Drive in Brookhaven, Pennsylvania held a special place in her heart. She also lived briefly in Melbourne, Florida before settling in Ellendale for her final years.
After raising her young children into elementary school age, Carole pursued a career in nursing—a calling that reflected her compassionate nature. She earned her nursing degree and went on to work for many years at Riddle Memorial Hospital in Media, Pennsylvania. Her dedication to caring for others extended beyond the hospital walls into every aspect of her life.
Carole was a woman of deep Catholic faith who attended daily mass with Charlie. Her spirituality was a cornerstone of her life and provided strength through all seasons. She found joy in the simple pleasures: spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and friends; sharing stories; laughing at silly jokes; or striking up conversations with strangers—often beginning with the cheerful declaration: “I have five boys!”
Proud of her Irish heritage, Carole loved traveling—especially to Ireland—and never missed an opportunity to enjoy an Irish pub filled with music and merriment. She had a special fondness for animals and always welcomed dogs and cats into the family home.
Carole was the beloved wife of Charlie McDermond, with whom she shared 61 years of marriage since their wedding in 1963. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around their six children and twelve grandchildren. Carole and Charlie’s enduring partnership was a testament to their deep love and unwavering commitment to one another. In her final years, Charlie and their son Tom lovingly cared for her at home in Ellendale, Delaware.
Carole is survived by her devoted husband Charlie (87) and five sons: Joseph (59) and his wife Kathy with their children Ryan and Casey; Daniel (57) and his wife Barbara with their children Rory and Connor; Patrick (56) and his wife Heather with their children Gavin, Max, and Gracie; Michael (54) and his wife Sharon with their children Emily, Jacob, Nicolas, Matthew, and Anna; and Thomas (48). She was predeceased by her infant son Charles in 1964, as well as by her parents Joseph and Marie, and her sister, Marie.
Carole’s warmth touched everyone she met. Her joyful spirit, storytelling charm, quick wit, and boundless love for those around her created a legacy that will be cherished forever.
A viewing will be held at St. Jude The Apostle Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, Delaware on Friday, April 4, 2025 beginning at 10:00 AM. A mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:00 AM at the same location.
May Carole’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carole’s memory to the Little Sisters of the Poor, 185 Salem Church Rd, Newark, DE 19713 or to the Covenant House New York, 460 West 41st St., New York, NY 10036.
Please sign the virtual guestbook on the tribute wall.
FLORIST NOTE - PLEASE DELIVER ALL FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS TO THE LEWES LOCATION ON THURSDAY APRIL 3 2025 BY 3 PM.
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