Zita, who grew up in the historic neighborhood of Shipoke, began her career at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Office before moving to the Pennsylvania House Republican Public Information Office.
Zita was first married to the late Carl Dodaro, with whom she shared two children, Carl “Carlie” Dodaro and Grace (Dodaro) Keely. Zita was predeceased by her son Carlie in 1973. She later married William “Bill” Prowse, who preceded her in death.
She is survived by her devoted daughter, Grace Keely, and her son-in-law, John Keely. Zita was a proud grandmother to Jennifer Weidman (Max), Tess Webb (Ryan), Carly Keely, and Hannah Keely, and a loving great-grandmother to Quinn, Emmett, and Delaney.
Zita was an active and dedicated member of her community. She was a lifetime member of the American Legion, an officer of the Verhovay Home Association, and a member of the Elks Lodge 12 and Improved Order of Red Men, Degree of Pocahontas. She served as a Republican committee person for 38 years, and in 2024, the Dauphin County Council of Republican women honored her with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Zita enjoyed spending time with her family, doing puzzles (jigsaw, crossword, cryptoquotes), cooking, cross-stitching, and watching football.
Viewings will be held 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday, November 17, and 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Tuesday, November 18, at the Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry St., Harrisburg. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 PM, Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church, 2800 Paxton Church Rd., Harrisburg. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Easterseals Disability & Community Services. www.easterseals.com
