Rebecca Lurlene Smith Vitola
Becky passed in the presence of family on May 6, 2026. Becky married the love of her life, Steve Vitola, over 50 years ago, and two daughters joined the union, Sarah Beth Green (Roger) and Analisa Lurlene Vitola. The family experienced many adventures together.
Becky was a native San Antonian, attended SAISD schools, graduating from Jefferson High School and Our Lady of the Lake University. In her youth, Becky was a Lasso who roped left-handed, a Girl Scout with girls that became lifelong friends, and an actress in high school, college and beyond. Most of all she was “all joy.”
Becky’s life was led by her deep faith. Having been healed of a hole in her heart as a baby, her parents Margie and Caldwell Smith called her their “miracle child.” Becky’s faith guided her as a spouse, mother, daughter, best sister ever, friend, and educator.
Becky was the heart of her family, creating a warm and happy home environment for her family, her daughters’ friends, her friends, and her extended family. Becky was a loyal friend to those who became “chosen family” and was a “second mother” to many.
Becky extended her faith-led walk in this life into her career with her students in the public school system, teaching English, Theater Arts, and Art to the children at Travis Park United Methodist Church as the Children’s Education Director for a few years in the 80’s. Becky encouraged and nurtured students and children to believe in themselves and celebrate their talents.
Sharing her beautiful soprano voice, Becky sang at weddings, celebrations, and in the music and theatre program at Travis Park UMC.
Becky was a joyous woman and the “life of the party.” She was well loved and will be missed by Steve, Sarah Beth, Roger, Analisa, sister Beth Smith, brother-in-law David Stone, sisters-in-law Rosanne Vitola, Julie Burgess and Robert, nephew Paul Burgess, and wife Letty. Becky’s parents, Margie and Caldwell Smith, welcomed her to her new Faith home.
Gratitude to Becky’s caregivers, Asia, April, Shanna, Marissa, Terenee, and all from Suncrest Home Health, who made her tough days comfortable.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Travis Park UMC on Saturday, May 9, at 10:00 AM. A reception will follow the service. If you would like to help provide desserts or light hospitality for the reception, you may sign up here.
“In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Travis Park United Methodist Church Music Ministry.
The service will be live-streamed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwGhbK0cZlg.