Verlaine Showell

1939 - 2025

Mary Verlaine Showell

January 12,1939 ~

October 8, 2025

Salt Lake CIty, UT-

Mary Verlaine Showell, beloved Mother & Nama, honored educator, and loyal friend passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, surrounded by the family she so deeply loved. Born on January 12, 1939, Verlaine lived a life marked by curiosity, creativity, and compassion.

A proud graduate of South High School, Verlaine went on to earn her master's degree in mathematics from the University of Utah, where she was a devoted member of the Tri Delta Sorority. Her sharp intellect and deep sense of purpose led her into education, where she became a gifted teacher, professor, division head, and dean at Salt Lake Community College. She was admired for her dedication to her students and her commitment to excellence. Her contributions were recognized with the Governor's Medal for Science and Technology. She was also a founding member of the Utah Women's Math Science Network-helping pave the way for countless women in STEM.

Verlaine was as dynamic outside the classroom as she was within it. She had an insatiable love of learning and a fascination with science and the workings of the universe. She was an avid gardener, an animal lover, and a true appreciator of the arts-especially music, the symphony, and live theatre. Her creativity and zest for life shone through in everything she touched. She had a sharp wit and sense of humor that stayed with her until the very end, bringing laughter and light to those around her.

Verlaine married Richard Warren Zito in 1960 and had three sons of whom she was endlessly proud. She later divorced and married Craig McPhie, welcoming his daughter, Kim, and son, Doug, into her family-both of whom she loved dearly. She and Craig later divorced.

She was a cherished "Nama" to her 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandsons, each of whom adored her. She fostered an environment of love and friendship for her grandchildren through regular get-togethers-lovingly referred to as "Nama Days"-which they credit for their everlasting bonds with her and each other.

Verlaine loved deeply and it was evident by the many friendships she treasured throughout her lifetime.

Verlaine is preceded in death by her parents Harold and Florence Showell, former husbands, Richard Warren Zito and Frank Craig McPhie, her son, Richard Warren Zito, her brother, Gary Showell, and her sister Connie Gray.

Verlaine is survived by her sons Anthony Webster Zito and Collin William Zito; daughters-in-law Tristen, Vanessa, and Mindy; grandchildren Mikaeli (Jake), Joseph (May), Dylan, Grace, Anthony, Michael, and Roman; and great-grandsons Kai, Miles, Eli, and River.

Verlaine will be remembered for her warmth, her brilliance, and her unwavering devotion to family, learning, and the beauty of the world around her-a life fully lived and generously shared.

A donation in Verlaine's name will be made to the Pioneer Theater Company, where she was a life-long season ticket holder and created cherished memories attending performances with family and friends.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, please consider a donation to Pioneer Theatre Company at pioneertheatre.org/donate.

(A memorial service will be held for family and invited guests.)