Pete leaves strong legacy on council

When asked to comment on Laurita Pete, some people found it tough to come up with enough adjectives to describe the woman who’s fourth term on the Crowley City Council was cut short due to medical reasons. 

“She was the best there was and the best that ever will be,” said Alderman Vernon “Step” Martin, who sat next to Pete for several years. “She didn’t back off from the important issues and she never got too soft and I love her for that.”

Martin laughed as he recalled one of Pete’s methods of getting answers during council meetings. 

“I’ll always remember her saying, ‘Wait a minute, wait a minute. That’s not what I asked you’,” he said.

To see the numerous honors and accomplishments Pete achieved during her years on the city council and as a civil servant is impressive to say the least.

Among them are:

• The first African-American female to serve on the Crowley City Council.

• Named an Honorary State Senator by the Louisiana State Senate.

• The first Certified African-American Department of Public Welcare case worker.

• The 2001 National Association of University Women (NAUW) local and sectional Woman of the Year.

• Recognized as a “Champion for Children” by the Louisiana Children’s Defense Fund.

And that was only a few.

According to Crowley City Administrator Margaret Young, Pete had a quite a memory as well.

“She was a true historian,” said Young. “It seemed like she could remember anything about anybody.”

Dr. Ezora Proctor, who will be replacing Pete as the Ward 3, Division B representative on the council, acknowledged she has large shoes to fill.

“Laurita and I go back to when we taught at Rayne High School,” recalled Proctor. “I have fond memories of her and have been praying hard for her. We appreciate the service that she has given to our community.”

Alderwoman Kitty Valdetero remembers Pete being a very dedicated public servant. 

“She was very devoted to her district,” she said. “She always followed up and was always well-informed; a real joy to work with. She always took part and was never rude.”

Crowley Mayor Greg Jones remembers her giving spirit. 

“Laurita Pete’s tireless efforts to improve her city and her and her ward were exemplary,” he said.  

Due to medical issues Pete was unavailable for comment for this story. However, the impression she left on the Crowley City Council will be felt for years to come.