Leroy Dean McDermott's Obituary
LeRoy Dean McDermott, son of Chester and Marjorie McDermott, had many titles: Dad, Stepdad, Professor, Colleague, Friend, Husband, Brother, and Son.
He was born in rural Oklahoma, and despite becoming a successful academic and moving to Missouri, his heart remained tied to rural Oklahoma. Indeed, he regularly attended family or high school reunions in or around his hometown of Welch. As a professor of Art History at the University of Central Missouri for several decades, LeRoy published and lectured on a groundbreaking theory detailing how prehistoric figurines (some of the very first pieces of human art) were likely created by women.
His work was ahead of its time and continues to be highly cited. LeRoy continued his research as long as his mind and body would allow during retirement. While he had much to be proud of professionally, his greatest pride was his children and all they have accomplished.
He is survived by his wife, Elinor Rahm, a son, Ryon McDermott (Heidi), a daughter, Erin Mos (Steve), a stepson, John Rahm (Opal), and five grandchildren, Morgan Mos, Damon Mos, Johannah Rahm, Luke Rahm, and Avery McDermott.
LeRoy will be laid to rest in the Pleasant View Cemetery in Dakoma, Oklahoma, 12 miles south of Alva, Oklahoma, at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 19th, 2022.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Michael J. Fox Parkison Foundation (https://www.michaeljfox.org/) or to the University of Central Missouri Department of Art and Design.
What’s your fondest memory of Leroy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Leroy?
Share a story where Leroy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Leroy you’ll never forget.
How did Leroy make you smile?