Sister Barbara McDermott, RSM, 73, passed into eternal life on May 18, 2026, at McAuley Hall Health Care Center in Watchung, New Jersey.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Thomas McDermott and Mary Hughes, Barbara was raised in a close-knit Catholic family and received her early education at St. Jerome Elementary School, followed by Catherine McAuley High School.  She continued her education at Georgian Court College (now University) in Lakewood, where she earned a bachelor’s and a master's degree in elementary education, and later a master’s degree in theology. 

Barbara dedicated much of her life to education, serving as a second-grade teacher at Whiting Elementary School for 25 years.  She also taught second-grade religious education classes at St. Luke Parish in Toms River for more than a decade.  Her gentle spirit, patience, and devotion to her students left a lasting impression on generations of young learners.  In 1999, she entered the Sisters of Mercy, beginning a new chapter of service and spiritual commitment.  She began her life in Mercy with the Sisters in Bradly Beach, a time Barbara remembered fondly.

She completed her novitiate at the House of Mercy in St. Louis and later ministered as a teacher at McAuley School in North Plainfield.  She brought her teaching talents to third graders at St. Joseph School, Keyport, for one year, then for four years to second graders at Our Lady of Victories School, Sayreville, where she also taught the first Communion class.

Sister Barbara found joy in playing the piano and listening to music, simple pleasures that brought her peace and renewal. Her life of mercy extended beyond the classroom.  She lovingly cared for her parents, even moving home for several years to help them when their health was failing.  In recent years, Sister Barbara was part of the community at St. Ann’s in Keansburg before her illness brought her to McAuley Hall.

Sister Barbara will be remembered for her quiet kindness, her deep faith, and her unwavering dedication to the works of mercy.  She was predeceased by her parents and is survived by her brother, Thomas McDermott.

May she rest in peace and continue to inspire all who were touched by her life of faith and service.

Services will take place at McAuley Hall, St. Catherine of Siena Chapel, Watchung, New Jersey, on Friday, May 22, 2026.

 Wake: 9:00 am

 Welcome Home Service: 10:00 am

 Funeral Mass: 11:00 am

 Burial will immediately follow at Holy Redeemer Cemetery in South Plainfield, and all are invited to attend.

Memorial donations may be made to the Sisters of Mercy, 1645 US Highway 22 West, Watchung, New Jersey, 07069.

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