William John Dermady Jr. entered eternal life on January 16, 2017. Beloved father of his devoted son William J. Dermady, III., and father-in-law to his caring daughter in law Julie Batt.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years Lorraine B. Dermady, his parents, William and Ada Dermady, his siblings Raymond, Margaret, Ada, Rita, John Lawrence, Mary and Loretta May.
Uncle to Ray Duthu, David Duthu, Ann D. Shank (Doug) and Angela Ramon. Uncle through marriage to Ann Schmitt (Scott), Phil Bourgeois (Carlen), Michael Bourgeois (Marylin) and the late Gary Bourgeois (Deborah). Grandfather figure to Thomas Schmitt.
He was born and grew up in the Irish Channel. He joined the Navy in August 1943 and became a radioman third class Petty Officer. He served on the USS Vincennes and USS Vicksburg. He fought nine battles, and earned the American Area Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Medal, the Philippine Liberation Medal and the Victory Medal. He also received the Philippine Presidential Citation and the Combat Action Ribbon. He was discharged honorably in March 1946 and went to work for Ingredient Technology for 32 years.
He never talked much about his years in the Navy, always saying that he was not a hero. The ones who did not come home were the heroes.
He enjoyed swimming, was a life guard and he was an avid dancer. He loved merengue, cha-cha and tango dancing. He loved dancing slow drag and listening to Fats Domino. He always said that the sound of bagpipes always took him back to Ireland although he had never been there.
He retired in 1982 as an office manager and enjoyed many years traveling with his wife. He would watch and loved laughing at Laurel and Hardy, and Sanford & Son. He always enjoyed telling embellished stories to anyone listening.
Even if dementia took over his mind at the end of his life, he retained much of his sense of humor and would delight us with some witty comments. His impish grin would let you know that he was just kidding.
Visitation will be held at the Greenwood Funeral Home, 5200 Canal Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124 on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at 9:30 AM, followed by a Memorial Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. The burial ceremony will be held at St. Louis Cemetery III, 3421 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70112.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Wounded Warrior Project, USO, or any other organization which helps and supports our Veterans and our active military personnel. The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories, and condolences online, at www.greenwoodfh.com.

---

 Service Information