Sr. Alice Dorothy Smilanich, Fmm

NORTH SMITHFIELD - Smilanich, Sr.Alice D., FMM, of Ein Karim Community, North Smithfield, died Wednesday, at St Antoine's Residence. She was born in Penrose, Colorado, the daughter of the late George and Mary (Gaiski) Smilanich. She entered the Institute of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary at North Providence, RI, June 13, 1941 where she pronounced her first vows December 15, 1943. She was sent in mission to Monrovia, Liberia where she pronounced her final vows. December 15, 1946. Throughout her religious life she served in the field of education as a teacher, director of a school and as the secretary of education for the diocese of Monrovia, Liberia. In 1970, she returned to the USA and served as a local superior in communities in Roslyn and Brighton. She was sent again in mission to Jirapa, Ghana where she served as an accountant in a hospital and as a librarian in the seminary. After returning to the USA for medical reasons, she returned to Monrovia, Gbarnga where once again she served as the secretary of education for the diocese until 1990. After completing her active ministries in Liberia, she was sent to the USA where she participated in community services. She was much loved by her students who stayed in touch with her frequently. Some of them cared for her during her last illness. She is survived by several nieces and nephews A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 11am in the Holy Family Chapel, 399 Fruit Hill Ave., North Providence. Visiting hours Sunday 2-8, with a wake service at 7pm in the chapel. Burial will be in Holy Family Cemetery.