News Summary
John Smith, a well-respected member of the Providence community, has passed away at the age of 66. He was known for his dedication to family, military service, and community engagement. A loving husband and father, Smith enjoyed a successful career and was actively involved in local organizations. He leaves behind a legacy of service and love, as well as a grieving family, including three children and five grandchildren.
Providence, RI – John Smith, a cherished community member, passed away on September 30, 2025, at the age of 66. He was a devoted husband to Theresa H. (Daniels) Smith, and father to three children. His commitment to family and service left a significant impact on those around him.
Born in Providence in 1937, John was the son of the late Patrick J. Smith and E. Lillian (Callahan) Smith. He was previously married to Ann Marie “Nancy” (O’Rourke) Smith for 57 years before her passing. John served honorably in the U.S. Army as part of the Military Police in Alaska, where he was present during the territory’s statehood. After serving his country, he spent most of his life in Providence before enjoying retirement in Jupiter, Florida, while also maintaining a home in Warwick and spending summers in Bonnet Shores, Narragansett.
During his lifetime, John was an active and dedicated member of his community. He was a communicant of St. Augustine’s Parish in Providence for over 30 years and engaged with various organizations, including the Home School Association and the Knights of Columbus. Additionally, he was a proud member of the Sons of Irish Kings.
Professionally, John had a long career that spanned over 40 years. He worked for HP Hood Company for more than 20 years before co-founding Ocean State Diary, where he continued to contribute for an additional 20 years. Throughout his life, John enjoyed hobbies such as golf, card games, and gardening. In retirement, he especially cherished spending time with his grandchildren.
John is survived by his three children: Patrick Smith and his wife Mary of Wickford, Deborah Fox and her husband Joe of Warwick, and Clare Arnold and her husband Patrick of North Attleboro. He leaves behind five grandchildren: Joseph, Courtney, and Michael Fox, as well as Brenna and Lillian Arnold. He was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Smith.
Visitation for family and friends will occur on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 4-7 PM at the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Home located at 2435 Warwick Ave., Warwick. Following visitation, John’s funeral is scheduled for Monday, October 6, 2025, at 11 AM at the same funeral home. After the service, he will receive a burial with full Military Honors at the Rhode Island Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Exeter.
For those wishing to express their condolences, the family has requested visits to www.TheQuinnFuneralHome.com.
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Additional Resources
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
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Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
