With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Kelly McDermott, a devoted wife, mother, midwife, mentor, and cherished friend who touched the lives of so many in Albany, New York, and beyond. Kelly’s passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and the many mothers and babies she cared for during her incredible career as a midwife. Known for her kind heart, endless compassion, and unwavering strength, Kelly was a guiding light to those who knew her, and her impact will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.
Kelly McDermott spent her life serving others. From a young age, she was driven by her love for people and her natural ability to nurture, support, and empower everyone around her. She was born and raised in West Babylon, New York, where she spent her early years surrounded by family, friends, and a tight-knit community that helped shape her into the remarkable woman she became. After graduating from West Babylon Senior High School, Kelly went on to pursue higher education, following a path that would ultimately lead her to fulfill her life’s mission—helping bring new life into the world.
She studied Nursing at Maria College, later advancing her education in Sociology and Women’s Studies at the University at Albany, SUNY, before finally earning her certification in Midwifery at SUNY Stony Brook. Her passion for women’s health, childbirth, and advocacy for mothers drove her to become an exceptional midwife at Sage-Femme Midwifery, where she made a profound difference in the lives of countless families in the Albany area.
As a midwife, Kelly’s compassion and care were unmatched. She stood by families through their most intimate moments, offering comfort, guidance, and unwavering support. Her dedication to maternal care and advocacy for informed choice in maternity services made her a well-respected figure in the Capital Region. The relationships she built with the families she served were not just professional—they were deeply personal, built on trust, empathy, and love.
Kelly’s unexpected passing has left many heartbroken. Her dear friend, Christopher Mancini, shared a heartfelt tribute:
“Truly, truly sad this morning to hear you are no longer with us, Kelly McDermott. You were always an inspiration to me and my family, a motherly figure, a friend. You were someone who listened and gave so much advice when we needed it most. You understood us in and out and never wavered in the toughest of moments. You let us be us. You were the first to hold our children and love them unconditionally. Thank you for being there for Deana when she needed you most, and thank you for believing in me to be by your side through it all. I will never forget you. We love you forever and always, Kelly!”
Kelly’s daughter, Nina Cutro Kelly, also shared a touching tribute:
“It is with profound sadness and shock that I have learned that my mother, Kelly McDermott, passed away this morning after a brief but intense illness. Today was also 9 years since my sister, Celeste Autumn Rose, passed. When I last saw my mom at the end of January and early February, I was impressed that she had an ’emergency cheese bag’ in case she needed a snack between appointments or births. I haven’t quite processed any of this loss, but I am so grateful that she was my mom. Rest in peace, Mom, enjoy the sleep which eluded you for so long. Hug Celeste for us, and try to stay out of trouble. Until we meet again! Love, Nina, Indy, Buddy, & JT.”
Kelly’s legacy is marked not only by her professional achievements but also by the love and kindness she extended to everyone around her. While her career faced challenges in recent years, those who knew her best remember her as a woman of deep conviction, passionate advocacy, and a relentless commitment to the well-being of mothers and children.
The family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and shared that arrangements will be announced in the coming days. Kelly McDermott’s memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her impact on the lives of so many will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Kelly.