Theresa McDermott Obituary

McDermott, Theresa Marie Therese McDermott (nee Hertel), known as Theresa, died November 22, 2017, at 91. Beloved wife of the late John A. McDermott; loving mother of John, Michael (Nickie Sage) and Matthew (Emily Melnick) McDermott; dear grandmother of Jack, Alice, Sophia and Lucy; devoted sister of the late Rosaleen Hertel, Joan (Tom) Hanratty, Rev. John Hertel (O.Carm.), and Mary Jo Hertel. As a Chicago Public Schools teacher in the 1950's and 1960's, Theresa was an outspoken leader of Teachers for Integrated Schools. She was an active member of the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue Group, the Hyde Park Historical Society and Friends in Council, among many other organizations. At St. Thomas the Apostle Parish and School, she served in many leadership roles over 45 years. Theresa was also a vital partner in her husband's work in the Civil Rights movement and investigative journalism. Visitation will be Monday, November 27, 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 5472 S. Kimbark Ave. in Chicago. There will also be a brief visitation Tuesday, November 28, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a 10:30 a.m. funeral mass, also at St. Thomas. Interment St. Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Catholic Campaign for Human Development or The Chicago Reporter. Arrangements entrusted to Donnellan Funeral Home. Info (773) 238-0075. Sign guestbook at www.donnellanfuneralhome.com