Vita Smith, 86

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Vita R. Smith, 86, passed away suddenly on July 17, 2024, at Silver Creek Manor, in Bristol. She is survived by her loving daughter, Deborah (Smith) McGowan; beloved granddaughter, Mykie McGowan-Roach; and a brother, Howard Dinin, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the former wife and lifelong friend of John Matthew Smith, who passed away at their home in 2012.

Born in the Bronx, New York, Vita was the daughter of the late Jack and Bertha (Schneiderman) Dinin. She was valedictorian of her graduating class at PS 78 and graduated with honors from the Bronx High School of Science. After relocating to Providence with her family, Vita received a Bachelor of Arts degree in education from the University of Rhode Island. She made a 28-year-long career as a senior probation officer with the RI Department of Corrections, retiring with distinction 30 years ago.

The theater had been Vita’s longtime passion, and she was a favorite performer at several area theaters, including Newport Playhouse, City Nights, Barker Playhouse and the Granite.

Throughout her earlier life, Vita was an accomplished ballroom dancer and enjoyed flea markets, art fairs and antique outdoor events. Her later years were spent enjoying the company of her family and friends.

Her family is planning a memorial garden. Donations of live plants may be sent in her memory to Deb McGowan at 329 ½ Child St., Warren, RI 02885 or contributions in her name would be welcomed by the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts, One Capitol Hill, 3rd floor, Providence, RI 02908.