Nu Skin Legendary Leader and Industry Icon, Clara McDermott Passed Away
One of the most highly respected, hardest-working women and pioneers of the industry, Clara McDermott was widely regarded as “the most successful woman in network marketing history.”
A visionary entrepreneur, Nu Skin pioneer, industry icon and beloved matriarch, Clara S. McDermott, died peacefully on Oct. 12, 2025. She will forever be remembered for her leadership, vision, and impact on network marketing – truly a “Force For Good.”
Born on Feb. 2, 1932, in Cowley, Wyoming, Clara was the seventh of 10 children, and 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.
Founding Distributor of Nu Skin
As an early pioneer of Nu Skin, Clara 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 widely regarded as “the most successful woman in network marketing history.”
A Force For Good
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 her 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 beautiful video tribute – shared in Clara’s own recorded words of loving wisdom – was shared yesterday by Sandie Tillotson.
The Heart of Her Family
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 Jan. 18, 1975, Clara married the love of her life, James “Jim” McDermott, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Once teenage sweethearts in the late 1940s, 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.
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 spirit and 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); 18 grandchildren; 61 (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 of St. George, Utah.
Friends and family are invited to view Clara’s full obituary and sign her online guestbook.
SOURCE: St. George News
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