Dallas entrepreneur Rain McDermott, who founded artisan caramel maker Dallas Caramel Company when she was only 34 years old, died after a battle with breast cancer; she was 52.
Her passing was noted on the company's Facebook page, stating that "it is with the heaviest hearts that we share the passing of our beloved founder, Rain McDermott. Rain lost her courageous battle with breast cancer, but not without an incredible fight—full of strength, grace, and unwavering spirit. She gave her all, just like she did in everything."
A native Texan, Elizabeth Rain Reglin McDermott grew up in Houston and moved to Plano at the age of 7. According to her biography, when she turned 9, her father took her on a date to the Reunion Tower which inspired her creativity and propelled her desire to leave her own mark on the city.
She attended El Centro College (now Dallas College), earning a degree in pastry, culinary & food service management, then started Dallas Caramel Company in 2007 to satiate her curiosity: Could she make a delicious caramel that would satisfy her sweet tooth?
Her caramels and turtles, which were made at a facility in Wylie, were described as bold, unapologetically delicious, and as big as Texas, in 11 flavors — many inspired by Dallas, including Sea Salt, Orange, Cinnamon, Marshmallow, Espresso, TX Drunken Nut (Texas Whiskey & Texas Pecans), Pumpkin, Bacon, Apple Pie, Chocolate, Lemon Meringue, and traditional Original.
Services were not yet announced but according to the post, the company will carry on "her mission of world caramel domination, one delicious piece at a time."
Friends meanwhile called her "the sweetest and kindest soul," "an amazing woman and mentor," who was "adored for her enthusiasm and determination." Customers expressed gratitude for her wonderful caramels and doting personal service.
"Rain's sweet smile lit up every room, her hugs could fix just about anything, and her love for caramel was only matched by her love for her husband Sean and her dogs Wylie and Maui," the post said. "She poured her heart into Dallas Caramel Company, and every bite of caramel tells a little piece of her story."
