MONTPELIER-It is with broken hearts that we share the sudden passing of our mother, Merle “Tootie” McDermott (Washburn), on Sunday July 12, 2026 at Heaton Woods where she was also born.

Our mother loved to garden, read, knit, sing and especially dance. A lifelong resident of Montpelier, she was born on June 4, 1937, the beloved daughter of Erma and Kenneth Washburn Sr. Tootie had one sister Linda, and two brothers Kenneth Jr. and Johnny. She is predeceased by her parents and siblings.

Tootie had six daughters, Jill (Jeff), Teri (Arthur), Holly (Jeff), Tracy (Joe), Susan (Mark) and Patricia (Maurice). She also leaves 15 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved deeply.

Tootie loved her family, her country, and lobster rolls. You may have known her when she was a volunteer with the Montpelier Legion Auxiliary holding offices both locally and as Vermont State President in 2007. Or you might have known her from years of running the Little League concession stand up at the ballfield or perhaps you were one of the many kids who passed through her daycare. She was also known for her sewing abilities, making all of her six daughters’ clothes as well as their Barbie and Baby Doll outfits. A beautiful, remarkable woman who lived a long and happy life. We will all miss her forever.

As she requested, all services are private. Arrangements were entrusted to Guare Funeral Home in Montpelier. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Kellogg Hubbard Library.