SHARON — Sally Theresa Dermody, 68, of Sharon died May 22, 2010, at home and surrounded by her family, following a lengthy illness. She was a loving wife, proud parent and grandmother, and a cherished friend to many.

Sally was born March 18, 1942, the daughter of Alden Ernest and Theresa Claire Parsons, in Norwood, Mass. She was a graduate of Walpole High School Class of 1960 and Fisher College. She resided in Norton, Mass., for 16 years, where she was a “Mom” to every kid that came into her home.

In 1985, Sally and her family moved to Sharon. She worked for Despres and Associates Real Estate for 23 years and was an active member of the community, holding the position of Sharon tax collector for 14 years. She was also a Notary Public for the State of New Hampshire. Sally was recognized by the Jaffrey Chamber of Commerce for her many years of service and was presented with a plaque in February 2002 in recognition of 15 years of continuous dedication and service.

Sally was known as a “take-charge” well organized and tireless worker both professionally and at home. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children and seven grandchildren and teaching them lessons of life, sharing and playing games. She was an avid sports fan, following the Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins and New England Patriots. Sally brought great joy to those who received her beautiful handmade Swedish weaved blankets.

She was a compassionate and loving person to all and her compassion and generous love came back to her, and her family, during the past year with the tender care she received from the doctors, nurses, and aides at Mass General Hospital and Monadnock Community Hospital. Sally called them all her guardian angels.

She is survived by her loving husband of 44 wonderful years, Harry J. Dermody of Sharon. She is also survived by her daughter Michelle Holmes and her husband, Brian, and their three children, Patrick, Katelyn and Kelly of Norfolk, Mass.; her daughter Cyndee Hoagland and her husband, Eric, and their child, Sally, of Cambridge Mass.; and her son Jim Dermody and his wife, Jen, and their three children, Courtney, Jack and Harry, of Amherst.

In addition, she is survived by two brothers, Robert Parsons of West Yarmouth, Mass., Roger Parsons of Naples, Fla., and two sisters, Carol DePalma of Naples, Fla., and Marilyn DiLillo of Yarmouthport, Mass.

A celebration of her life will begin with visiting hours today from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jellison Funeral Home, 25 Concord Street, Peterborough. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church of Divine Mercy Parish, 18 Vine St., Peterborough with the Rev. Gerald Belanger, pastor, as celebrant. Burial will be immediately following the Mass at the Sharon Village Cemetery and the celebration will continue with a reception at the Sharon Meeting House.

In lieu of flowers, Sally has requested that donations be made to Home Healthcare, Hospice and Community Services, 312 Marlboro St., Keene 03431 and Peterborough Fire and Rescue Association, P.O. Box 293, Peterborough 03458. Both organizations were instrumental during her dignified and courageous battle.

Jellison Funeral Home, Peterborough (jellisonfuneralhome.com) is assisting the family.

For a online guest book, please go to Tributes.com.