Laquitta Rena Peterson

Laquitta was born in Oklahoma City, OK on July 25th 1961 to Charles Edward Dawson and Esther Sullivan. After Laquitta graduated from San Gorgonio High School in 1980, in 2005, Laquitta graduated from Fresno Pacific University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management and Organization Development.

Laquitta began her career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in May, 1986. Over her more than 25 years in the department she accomplished many milestones including being recognized by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2008 for her leadership in raising over $1 million for the California State Employees Charitable Campaign. In her career Laquitta was often praised by peers and leaders for her attention to detail, high scope thinking and planning and ability to motivate and engage teams. Just before retiring as Associate Warden at Valley State Prison for Women in 2011, she was recognized by the California Legislature Assembly as a Women’s History Month Honoree.

Laquitta found joy in everything this life had to offer. She loved God first, her husband and her family. She never hesitated to help family, friend or stranger in need. She loved to sing in church and at home, walks with Her husband, Spencer, celebrating special occasions with her children and grandchildren and her dogs Rena and Scooter. She was a radiant woman who rejoiced in the Lord everyday.

Laquitta is survived by Spencer Peterson III of Lancaster,

her husband of 33 years and her three children, Latasha Rena De La O and her husband Jose of Palmdale CA, Lanika Rena Worsham and her husband John of Lancaster CA, Spencer Peterson IV of Lancaster CA, five grandchildren, Amara Rena De La O, Jaden Harper, Jose De La O, Ever Rena Worsham and Nova Rae Worsham. Laquitta leaves behind her mother, Esther P. Sullivan and four brothers, Charles Dawson (deceased), Carlos Dawson, Teddy Dawson (IL), Reginald Dawson (NB), Edward Dawson (CA) and half sister Chadra Dawson Taylor (TX).