Clara Smith McDermott

Clara S. McDermott
1932 - 2025

A visionary entrepreneur and beloved matriarch, Clara S. McDermott, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025. Born on February 2, 1932, in Cowley, Wyoming, Clara was the seventh of ten children born to Edetha and Heman Smith.

Clara's business acumen was evident early on. From selling cow salve door-to-door in rural Wyoming to launching a successful wig business in Utah and later thriving in nutritional supplements, she exemplified innovation and tenacity. As an early pioneer at Nu Skin, she leveraged her expertise to grow a global sales force and mentor generations - including her own children. She became one of the most respected voices at corporate events, addressing international audiences with warmth and wisdom. She played an instrumental role in shaping the company's distributor foundation, earning high praise for her generosity, integrity and leadership. As one of the hardest working women and pioneers in the industry, Clara was regarded as "the most successful woman in network marketing history."

In 1952 Clara married Joe Tillotson. Together they had five children. Although they later divorced, Joe remained a cherished part of the family until his passing in 2012.

On January 18, 1975, Clara married the love of her life, James 'Jim' McDermott, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Once teenage sweethearts in the late 1940's, their rekindled love story became a lifelong bond. Together, they traveled the world, embraced life fully, and most importantly, led by example-showing their family the power of enduring love and the importance of togetherness.

Clara's life was a testament to bold dreams, hard work, and uplifting leadership. She will be deeply missed by her family, community, and all of those she inspired. She was the heart of our family, the steady light in every storm. She ensured people knew she believed in them and cared for them. Though her hands now rest, her legacy lives on in every act of kindness, every shared laugh, and every bond of love she helped create. To honor her is to live with the same grace, strength, and fierce love she gave so freely.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Clara placed family at the center of all she did. Her remarkable business achievements were surpassed only by her reputation for generosity, strength of character, inclusivity, and her unwavering commitment to lifting others. Clara's legacy lives on through her family, many of whom continue to embody her entrepreneurial spirit and values. She leaves behind a lineage defined by purpose, compassion, and success. Every member of her family felt seen, loved, and supported by her.

She is survived by her five children: Craig (Dalia) Tillotson, Glenn Tillotson, Scott (Nancy) Tillotson, Blake (Carol) Tillotson, and Joyce Ricks; daughter-in-law: Sandie Tillotson and Jody Tillotson-Done (Ken); eighteen grandchildren; sixty-one (and counting) great-grandchildren; and her brother, Blake Smith. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim McDermott; her parents and siblings: Rawlin, Fred, Rachel, Grant, Melvin, Dean, Ellis, and Neff; son in law, Nathan.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454.

Friends and family are invited to view Clara's full obituary and sign her online guestbook at www.SpilsburyMortuary.com