James R. (Little Jim) McDermott Jr. of Boyd, Illinois passed from this earth on March 25, 2024, in Naperville, Illinois.
Jim was born on November 24, 1946, to parents, James R. (Big Jim) McDermott and Wanita Cole McDermott-Rettke. Jim was the oldest of four brothers, (Jim, Joe, John and Jack). Jim was married to Frances Lee Ward on July 19, 1969. They had the joy of raising six children together. She survives him and lives in Illinois.
Jim is also survived by his son, James Kent McDermott of Boyd Illinois, daughters, Kimberly Dawn (Mark) Tabora of Rocky River Ohio, Deanna Kay Copeland (David) of St. Louis Missouri, Libby Kathaleen (Matt) Stahley of Waynesboro Pennsylvania, and Amanda Lee McDermott of Lisle Illinois. Jim was also the proud grandfather to Devin Uhls, Maceo and Neko Tabora, Jude and Jillian Duggal, and Emmalyn McDermott. Also surviving is special brother-in-law, Steve (Joyce) Ward and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one daughter, Julie Elaine McDermott. Jim would often talk of his years growing up at his father’s salvage yard in Mount Vernon, building and repairing various kinds of cars but especially classic mustangs.
Jim was a mechanic by trade and worked as such for Illinois Power for 20 years. Jim had a heart for service and would always help anyone he saw in need, especially someone broken down on the side of the road. For many years he raised cocker spaniels and enjoyed bringing smiles to people’s faces as puppies would go to their new families. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army as a tank mechanic. He completed basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, and then was stationed in Germany in the 64th Armor Division. Years later Jim would also serve in various roles within the Disabled American Veterans. He proudly served as the Illinois State Commander of the DAV.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at noon at Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Full Military Honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post #141. Memorials may be made in Jim’s honor to your local DAV Chapter. Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
