Obituary of Jerry McDermott

This beautiful human - Jerry McDermott - died on Monday night after a more than 2-year fascinating arm-wrestle and rigorous debate with Death. Eventually, Jerry ran out of elbow grease and words, which is what usually happens.

He was one of the kindest, most honest, courageous, and funniest people I have ever known. He had a wicked sense of humour and the softest heart. He was a brilliant artist with a limitless love for life, quirkiness, adventure, nature, architecture, and cars - never forget the cars! He was a true romantic, and a soppy movie, or the words of a cringe-worthy song would bring tears to his eyes, which had me inappropriately giggling.

Jerry was the adored partner of myself, Jane Olivier (nee Botha). He was the proud Dad of Tyler and Brendan McDermott. He will be missed by his stepchildren: Dawie Olivier (Toinette Greyling) and Jonathan Olivier (Talita) as well as his grandchildren: Isabel, Jean and Adele.

Jerry was the dear brother of Tony (Pam).

He was predeceased by two brothers: Jim and Bill (Audrey) as well as his sister Betty. Son of the late James and Grace (nee Stenhouse) McDermott.

This is my favourite photo of Jerry and how I choose to remember him. I wish every person, if only once in their lifetime, could be lucky enough to experience the depth of connection, respect, love, and understanding we had for each other, and the sheer joy of being together. He lived with grace and dignity, and that was the way he chose to die. He was the love of my life and I will miss him dreadfully.

His body has been donated to and accepted by the Anatomy Department of the University of Ottawa. These bequeathed are called "The Silent Teachers". What a loving gift to give to future generations and the betterment of mankind! And it will keep him working even after life. I'm sure he would be having a good chuckle right now.

A little piece of magic died in 2025.