Dolores "Doly" A. McDermott

Dolores Ann “Doly” McDermott, 97 of Rockford, departed this life on earth to return home to God on August 8, 2025. Doly was born August 19, 1927 to Louie T and Cora (Nordhus) Olson in Clermont, Iowa. She graduated from Clermont High School at age 17 and obtained her first job at Northwestern Bell Telephone and was quickly promoted to supervisor.

Dolores married Gerald Dale McDermott on August 31, 1948 at Nativity Church in Dubuque, Iowa. They subsequently moved to Rockford, IL in the late 50’s.

Doly and Jerry were the proud parents of four children, Susan, Daniel, Michael and Kevin. She was President of the Welcome Wagon and spent many years volunteering at her children’s schools and activities.

Doly worked at Davey Pump in Rockford and then as the office manager in the Department of Community Development and for Mayor John McNamara at the City of Rockford. She took management classes at RVC and excelled in the workplace.

Doly enjoyed her professional years; however, her most beloved role was undoubtedly that of a Mom and Grandma. She dedicated her time and focus to the lives of her children and grandchildren, consistently demonstrating unconditional love. They hold dear the delightful memories of a fun-loving, kind, and energetic Mom and Grandma who engaged with them in card games and other activities, took them out for lunch and shopping on their birthdays, crafted beautiful holiday memories and meals, and participated in their school events and sports activities. She had a wonderful sense of humor 🙂 that she shared with everyone.

Doly sewed lovely dresses for her daughter Sue’s first communion, dances and proms. She also made tiny special gowns for her granddaughter Kelly who was born too small for baby clothes. Throughout their childhoods, if one of the grandkids needed a babysitter, grandma was there.

Doly and Jerry were married for 68 years and were fortunate to enjoy many years of active retirement. Doly played in a golf league at the Red Barn and taught others how to play the game of golf, including her grandchildren. Doly and Jerry traveled extensively in the US and went on an especially memorable trip to Europe with Sue and John. Their travels inspired others to travel. They spent 10 winters at Fountain View Village in Tampa, Florida. Doly cherished those years in their cozy home in Tampa, where she made new friends, engaged in various activities, and welcomed numerous family visitors. Although Doly faced many challenges in her life, she was the strongest woman we knew, always accepting of any sorrow or difficulties that came her way. She trusted in the Lord for guidance and mercy.

Doly was predeceased by her son Dan in April 2016, her husband, Jerry in November 2016, two sisters, Lovila (Earl) Opperman and Millie (Ernie) Peterson, two brothers, Louis Olson and Kenneth Olson, step-sister Lorraine Olson.

Doly is survived by her children Sue (John) Mroz, Mike (Barb) McDermott, Kevin (Cathy) McDermott, grandchildren Dan (Rachel) Mroz, Kelly (Ron) Swanson, Amie (Toru) Nogami, Theresa McDermott, Michael Jr (Natalie) McDermott, Joe (Amber) McDermott, Steven (Jenny Nowicki) McDermott, Tyler (Caitlin) Atchley, Tasha (Alex) LaSala, Sarah (Moneer Yaqubi) McDermott, Emily (Austin) Miller, Luke (Carolyn Alcock) McDermott. Her great-grandchildren are Joseph, Maxwell and Elizabeth Mroz, John and Samuel Swanson, Aaliyah, Michaiah and Malachi McDermott, Matthew, Mamie and Mary Bielefeldt, Isla and Ian McDermott, Noah, Amiya and Amelia McDermott, Liam McFadden, Christian and Dakota LaSala, Ella and Alaia Atchley, Kevy and Zaira Yaqubi, half-sister Ardes Pitmann, and nephews Curt (Doty) Olson and Denny Peterson.

The visitation will be held at Holy Family Church, 4401 Highcrest Road in Rockford on Wednesday, August 13, from 9:30-11:00am, followed by an 11:00 am Mass with Father Nathan Pacer officiating. Burial to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Rosecrance, who assisted her son Dan with a lifelong illness. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.