Elizabeth “Bette” Mcdermott

Elizabeth J. McDermott 

Bette McDermott passed away on October 28, 2023, following a brave battle with breast cancer.

Bette was born on November 26, 1959. With a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy at birth, her prognosis to ever walk was not a positive one. However, that diagnosis would end up being no match for Bette and her loving mother, Phyllis. With hard work, determination and dedication they would ultimately beat the odds. After a few years of operations, braces and crutches – and helped along by Bette’s tenacity – Bette and her mom achieved Bette’s goal of walking. And when she was five years old, Bette hit the ground running and never looked back. 

Despite her challenges, Bette radiated optimism. She never complained or asked, “Why me?” Her easy-going warmth drew others in. She lit up in the presence of her family, who she loved dearly. She was an especially treasured aunt and she took great care to keep up with all the details of the lives of her many nieces and nephews. In her youth, she had a large group of friends from her neighborhood with whom she enjoyed doing everything including; walking to school, hanging out at the Birches beach, playing baseball at the park and of course having parties at the wall.

At eighteen, Bette went to join the workforce and to live on her own. She loved to travel and her trip to California would always be a special memory. She also loved acting and singing and was an extra in several movies including; The Witches of Eastwick, Eight Men Out and Celtic Pride.

Bette was the daughter of Eugene McDermott and the late Phyllis McDermott.

She is survived by her siblings; Dennis and Frances McDermott of Marston Mills, Thomas and Sara McDermott of Sagamore, Phyllis and John Powers of Weymouth and Frank and Rhonda McDermott of Cotuit. She was the sister of the late Eugene McDermott Jr., Janice McDermott, Michael McDermott and Patricia Carney. She was the godmother to her nephew Thomas E. Walsh and aunt to many nieces  and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved cats Spanky and Sparky.

Services are private.

Bette supported advancements in breast cancer treatment and hoped others would do the same.

Memorial gifts can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

When you hear “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” think of Bette and smile.