Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural and educational communities are mourning the loss of Dr. Renee Smith, a respected choir director and educator whose work shaped generations of young performers.

Dr. Smith, who led the National Youth Choir for several years, died on Thursday morning at the age of 48.

Widely admired for her dedication to music education and youth development, she played a central role in nurturing young vocal talent across the country. Many of her former students went on to join the UWI Five Islands Singers, an ensemble she helped establish after years of building the Youth Choir programme.

Under her leadership, local singers performed at numerous concerts and recitals in Antigua and Barbuda and abroad, earning praise for their discipline and musical excellence.

Beyond the stage, Dr. Smith was known as a mentor who inspired and guided countless young people throughout her career in education and the performing arts.

She earned a PhD from Walden University and remained committed to advancing music and youth development throughout her life.