In Loving memory of Walter Elderkin Proffit Sr. He was 85 and passed from this world on Tuesday March 25, 2025. Born in Providence July 28,1939 to the late Charles C. and Esther M. (Elderkin) Proffit. He was a Native American Indian, a member of the Pokanoket Wampanoag Tribe and a board member of the RI Indian Council. He is now with his ancestors, family, and friends. 

In 1956 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, and was stationed at the Quonset Point Naval Air Station. There he met the love of his life, his wife Dorothy B. Forbes who was serving in the United States Navy. They were married September 23, 1960. In 1969 he became a Providence Police Officer, retiring in 1985 as the President of the Providence Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #3. Walter was an active member of many social clubs including the FOP, Oakland Beach Volunteer Fire Company, Pawtuxet Athletic Club, Elks USA, VFW, and the American Legion.

Besides his wife, Walter is survived by his son’s Walter Jr. (Susan) and Wayne, granddaughters Sherilyn, Jessica, and Mariah, step grandchildren Shayna and Jerry Lepore (Lora) and seven great grandchildren. He also leaves two sisters Barbara Wilson and Esther M. Proffit as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was the brother of the late Sandra Williams, Charles Jr., Larry, Rodney, and Raymond Proffit.

Per Walter Sr’s request there will be no wake or funeral services. He will be laid to rest at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers or donations Walter asks that everyone “Please be kind to one another, and this is not goodbye but until we meet again. I love you All!”