James Olan McDermott

Mr. James Olan McDermott, 75, of Blytheville, died peacefully at home with his loved ones around him Tuesday, June 12, 2012, after a short battle with cancer.

James was born Sept. 27, 1936, and was a lifelong resident of Blytheville. He was the oldest of five children, born to the late James Willis McDermott and Ora Ellen Battles. He was a United States Marine during the Korean War, worked as a Wal-Mart Associate. He was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Peggy Alice McDermott.

He will forever be remembered by his daughter, Jamie McDermott of Blytheville;

His son and daughter-in-law, Kerry and Carol McDermott of Monette;

His grandsons, Cody and Kerry James McDermott, also of Monette;

His sister, Vivian Hughes (and husband Barry) of Blytheville;

His brothers, Frank, and beloved sister-in-law, Shirley McDermott, of Gladstone, Mo., and Patrick McDermott of Blytheville; and

A special family friend, Jerry "Willie" Wiliford of South Haven, Miss.

He also leaves eleven nieces and nephews, 24 great-nieces and nephews and a host of loving relatives and friends.

James was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He touched the lives of many. His strength, generosity, quick wit and encyclopedia of knowledge sustained us day after day. James was a cornerstone in the foundation of our family. Memories of James will live on in our hearts forever.

Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday in Elmwood Cemetery with Mr. Frank McDermott officiating. The family will receive friends from 2-3 p.m. Saturday at Cobb Funeral Home. An online register may be signed at cobbfuneralhome.com