JoAnn McDermott

JoAnn McDermott, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, entered eternal life peacefully at her home in Osprey, Florida, in the early morning hours of May 13, 2026, just six months shy of her 90th birthday. Born on November 9, 1936, in Madison, Wisconsin, JoAnn was the daughter of Leo T. and Genevieve Esser Kehl. She grew up alongside her older sister, Virginia Lee, and her identical twin, JoJean. Much of her childhood centered around the Kehl School of Dance, the family studio founded by her grandfather, Professor Frederick W. Kehl, in 1880. Her father dedicated his life to teaching dance and preserving the studio’s legacy, while her mother created costumes and managed the business. JoAnn began dancing at just two years old, and was teaching classes by her teenage years. She loved ballroom dance, and the foxtrot was her favorite. Beyond the studio, she loved skating on the pond across the street, fishing with cousins, sharing playful adventures with her twin, and attending regular Mass at Holy Redeemer in Madison. Curious by nature and adventurous at heart, JoAnn embraced the world with enthusiasm. At 18, she traveled alone to Europe with a tour group, beginning a lifelong love of exploration. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Wisconsin before traveling to Hawaii to study traditional hula, deepening her appreciation for dance, music, and culture. Hawaii remained one of her favorite places, and she returned six times throughout her life. While attending Sunday Mass in Madison, JoAnn met Patrick McDermott, a young man from Chicago who held the church door open for her. They married at Holy Redeemer on August 10, 1963, and built a life filled with love, adventure, and devotion to one another. Together, they continued to explore the world, taking cruises and traveling with family and friends. While still living in Madison, JoAnn continued teaching dance after becoming a mother, often bringing her young children to the studio in a basket while she taught. Pat’s career brought the family to Akron, Ohio, where they raised their three children. Weekends were often spent at their cottage on Findley Lake, New York, where they enjoyed boating, skiing at Peek'n Peak, holidays, lively parties, and cherished time with family and dear friends. After many years in Akron, Pat’s retirement led them to Cincinnati, where they enjoyed 15 wonderful years before settling in Osprey, Florida, which has been their home for the past 15 years. They were members of Terrence Park Country Club in Cincinnati, and now The Oaks Club in Osprey. Known for her signature coral lipstick and quick wit, JoAnn brought grace, charm, and confidence wherever she went. She loved tennis, golf, bowling, group activities, and games, and relished evenings out with Pat, playful banter, and a cocktail or two. Whether sharing a wink, charming a waiter, or stepping onto the dance floor, she never missed an opportunity to shine. When the music began, it was always "show time."JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, Leo T. Kehl and Genevieve Esser Kehl, and her beloved grandson, John P. March III. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Patrick C. McDermott; her sisters, Virginia Lee Mackesy and JoJean Janus; her sister-in-law, Joan Milewski; her children, Jeanette March (Jeffrey), DeAnn Knight (Tim), and Gary McDermott (Jeannie); her grandchildren, Lauren Knight, Jennifer March, Calvin Knight, and Columb Knight; along with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. JoAnn lived a life rooted in faith and enriched by a joy for learning, connection, and love. Her favorite song, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” reflected the hope that guided her life and the enduring love she leaves behind. Her family will forever carry forward her generosity, resilience, and zest for life, holding her memory close always. A Mass Service and reception celebration afterwards will be Friday, November 6th at 10:30am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 425 S Tamiami Trail, Osprey FL 34229.

Tributes

JoAnn McDermott

November 9, 1936 - May 13, 2026