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David McDermott

David Michael McDermott of Palm Beach, Florida, and Essex passed away peacefully on July 17, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family, overlooking the Connecticut River. His wife of 61 years, Sally Murphy McDermott, died the day before. Born on Jan. 13, 1937, in New Haven, David was a beacon of strength, love, and great humor throughout his life. He was the cherished son of Bernard and Kathryn McDermott and grew up in Boston and Connecticut, where he developed a lifelong love of boating and travel. He was predeceased by his brothers, Bernard and Arthur, and his dear nephew, Kevin.

David graduated from Notre Dame High School, where he played on its all-star football team, and he continued his passion for the sport throughout college. He graduated from Boston University with a degree in business and went on to build a distinguished career in the automotive industry, owning and operating McDermott Automotive Group in New Haven and East Haven. His dedication and work ethic were respected by colleagues and customers alike, and his contributions to the field and the people with whom he worked were numerous and impactful. He was broadly known for the magnificent, enormous American flag that he flew proudly over his business.

In 1963, David married the love of his life, Sally Murphy McDermott. Together, they built homes filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. David was a devoted father to Kerry, Kimberly, and Kaitlin, instilling in them the values of kindness, integrity, and perseverance. He was also a proud grandfather and a great-grandfather who delighted in his family members’ accomplishments and adventures.

Outside of his professional achievements, David was passionate about boating, golf, oil painting, skiing, traveling the world, and entertaining with Sally. He loved beautiful things and enjoyed the work of renovating homes, building businesses, and finding smart ways to get things done. There were few places in the world he loved more than a golf course, a peaceful anchorage, or a dance floor. David was a member of the U.S. Seniors’ Golf Association and qualified for its U.S. Senior Amateur Golf Championship. David competed in countless golf tournaments at his country clubs in Florida and Connecticut, as well as those of his friends throughout the country. He was the proud sponsor of the David McDermott Golf Tournament to benefit Hamden Hall Country Day School. David served as a board member for The Connecticut Hospice, the Hospital of St. Raphael, and Gaylord Hospital, and was a proud supporter of Connecticut Cancer Society chapters. He was also involved in many local charitable organizations that served the greater Connecticut River area. His generosity of spirit and unwavering support were felt by all who knew him.

David was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sally. He is survived by his children, Kerry and Matt Holmes of Madison; Kimberly and Miles Esty of Madison; and Kaitlin McDermott of Madison. “Boppy” will forever be remembered by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Hilary, Brian, Peyton, and Parker Mezzi of Clinton; Frasier and Kylie Esty of Brooklyn, NY; Spencer, Mary, and Pierce Esty of Washington, DC; Heather Holmes of Philadelphia, PA; David Strupp of New York; Haley Holmes and her fiancé, George Liddy of Boston, MA; and Chase Strupp of New York. David is survived by siblings, Kathy Clabby, Terry McDermott, and Daniel McDermott, as well as his brother-in-law, Thomas Murphy Jr., and their families.

David Michael McDermott will be remembered for his legacy of love, strength, and compassion, which will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The family wishes to honor the work of Alberta Owusu, Sally and David’s companion and caregiver. She worked patiently and tirelessly and ministered to them both from her heart. “Alby” was trusted and loved by our whole family. Additionally, David was cared for tenderly and beautifully by The Connecticut Hospice at his home for the last months of his life.

Visitation hours from 4 to 8 p.m. will take place Thursday, Sept. 12, at Swan Funeral Home, 825 Boston Post Rd. Madison. A celebration of Sally and David’s lives will take place at 11 a.m. the following day, Friday, Sept. 13, at the Madison Beach Club, Madison. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405.