Jeffrey Thomas McDermott

Jeffery (Jeff) Thomas McDermott, age 78, wonderful father and law enforcement professional, passed away Thursday, August 1, 2019. Jeff was best known for his dedication to law enforcement, and as a mentor and trainer for so many others in the field. He believed the Zuni Knifewing best represented him as it was a protector in the night, which symbolized his thirty plus year career in law enforcement. He had a passion for history and often incorporated the lessons of the past into his current life. He felt the allure of the American Southwest early on and ultimately retired in Albuquerque, NM with his wife, Berdine (Bernie) McDermott. He enjoyed attending art festivals and Pow Wows with his only daughter, Diane McDermott. He was very skilled at leather crafts and enjoyed creating unique, but practical designs. Early on he taught his daughter jewelry crafting, which she continues to this day. His integrity and character were of utmost importance to him and he strived to live his life in honor of that. He is survived by his daughter, Diane McDermott. Also important in Jeff’s life is Matt Cooper, Diane’s significant other. He also leaves many cherished friends several of whom he met through the New Mexico Mounted Patrol, the New Mexico Crime Prevention Association, and ASIS International. During his final days he reflected on the men and women that served with him in Illinois at the Deerfield Police Department. He was proud of their accomplishments as a team and was pleased to call them friends that continued long after retirement. Jeff was preceded in death by his wife, Berdine McDermott; and his parents, Joseph McDermott and Margaret McDermott. A Visitation will be held Thursday, August 8, 2019 from 12:00 pm-2:00 pm at FRENCH-University. Jeff’s final wish was to remain with his daughter at home in a Native American pot, which will be honored until her death. Both father and daughter will eventually be interred at North Shore Garden of Memories in North Chicago, IL to join Berdine.