Helen P. McDermott

Helen P. McDermott, 88, died Thursday, May 21, 2020, at Chestnut Hill Hospital. She was born June 17, 1932, in Philadelphia, PA. Beloved daughter of late Dennis and Ellen (Ginley) McLafferty. Helen grew up in Philadelphia, PA, attended Little Flower High School, where she played basketball. She married John McDermott on May 10, 1952 at Saint Benedict Roman Catholic Church in Philadelphia, PA. John and Helen moved to West Oak Lane in Philadelphia, PA., and began a family. Together they raised four beautiful children (John (Terry), Michael, Brian, and Maryellen). In 1960, they moved to Oreland, PA., where they remained as a family. Their family home, on Lyster Road, became a staple to many McDermott family gatherings for many years to come. Helen was foremost a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She put her Catholic faith into practice daily, and she was an active member of Holy Martyrs Church. Helen’s greatest passion was for her family. She enjoyed going on family vacations to Wildwood, NJ., and enjoyed spending time with her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was especially proud of them and supported their many activities and accomplishments. She touched the lives of many through her wisdom, strength, and sense of humor. One of her finest attributes was her selflessness. In addition to caring for her own family, she was always there to lend a helping hand to many others when they needed her most. She is survived by two sons, Brian and Michael McDermott; ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; a daughter, Maryellen Curry; a son, John Terrance McDermott; a sister, Mae McGlinchey; and her parents. The family would like to particularly thank the dedicated doctors and nurses at Chestnut Hill Hospital and Saint Joseph Villa Nursing home who cared for Helen. Due to COVID-19, a memorial service of her remarkable life will be held at a future date. https://vimeo.com/user116730197/download/424304703/be30316cef