Ruby’s Writings heralded as a “gift”

The creative work of Vincentian educator, dancer and philanthropist, Ruby Smith-Newberry, has been compiled, posthumously, into a collection titled ‘Ruby’s Writings’ which has been heralded as a “gift” to local literature offerings.

Dr Arlene Smith-Thompson with La Gracia Dance Theatre

The Vincentian leg of the book launch was held on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at the Diamond Deliverance Assembly.

Ruby’s Writings is a posthumous publication of select pieces of Ruby’s literary work- poems, drama pieces and stories, some dating back 30 years which were compiled by her second daughter, Dr Arlene Smith-Thompson.

The launch featured a number of Smith-Newberry’s works brought to life through song, dance and spoken word by members of La Gracia Dance Theatre.

Dr Smith-Thompson described her mother as the “life of any congregation, any group” who, despite her five-year battle with vascular dementia held fast to her love of music and dance right up to her death in January, 2024.

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