Thomas Mcdermott

The funeral mass will be live streamed and can be viewed at www.stwilliam.org

In Loving Memory of Thomas McDermott (1930–2025) Thomas McDermott, a man of strength, focus, and devotion to family and community, passed away peacefully on July 5 at the age of 94. Born on August 9, 1930 in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Thomas was the beloved son of Thomas and Julia McDermott and the cherished nephew of Ben and Margaret Ferens.  In the early 1940s, Thomas first spent his summers in Seaford living with Aunt Margie and Uncle Benny. enjoying the waters of the Great South Bay. He eventually moved to Seaford permanently where he built a life defined by purpose, resilience, and love. He spent the majority of his career at Grumman Aerospace in Bethpage, where his disciplined work ethic and sharp mind earned him the respect of colleagues and the satisfaction of contributing to groundbreaking achievements in aviation and space exploration.  Thomas was predeceased by his beloved wife, Catherine, with whom he shared a lifetime of partnership, adventure, and mutual respect. In retirement, they enjoyed the fruits of their labor, be it fishing for fluke, sailing the Great South Bay and savoring the simple joys of life together.  When not in the boats, Tom spent his time on his other passion of building boats. Including his Uncle Benny's 40 foot Wheeler, he built over 12 boats, 3 Kayaks, one surfboard, as well as countless model boats, and ducks, each one a testament to Thomas’s craftsmanship and passion for the sea. He was the proud and steady father of Kathleen, Thomas, Mary, John, Dennis, and Claire. His legacy continues through his twelve grandchildren—James, Shannon Rose, Matthew, Julia, Noah, Rory, William, Dennis, Catherine, Caroline, RJ, and Teddy and his great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, James Aiden, Evelyn, Sean, Sofia, Ella and Beau.  Thomas will be remembered not only for his love and loyalty but for his strength of character and focused determination. Whether navigating the challenges of life or the open waters he loved, he did so with clarity, resolve, and strength.

Thomas McDermott’s life was a testament to the power of quiet strength and steadfast purpose. He will be deeply missed and forever honored.

🕯️ Visitation will be held at Charles Schmitt Funeral Home in Seaford on Thursday, July 10, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 7:00–9:00 PM. ✝️ Mass of Christian Burial Friday, July 11th, 9:30 AM at St. William the Abbot Church, Seaford, NY. Interment to follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park.