Ocie Peterson, a woman of extraordinary leadership ability in the community, was born December 17, 1897, in Wickcliff, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Patrick and Alice Brown Nunn.

Ocie was a graduate of Wickcliff High School in Kentucky. She married Leon F. Peterson in March of 1924, in Crown Point, Indiana. Leon Peterson died on October 1, 1961.

In 1921, after arriving in Beloit to become a 60-year resident of South Beloit, Illinois and Beloit, Wisconsin, she became a member of the Bethel African Methodist Church and served as trustee for many years.

Among Ocie’s accomplishments, these stand out: Ocie Peterson organized Rebecca Chapter #40 E.S. and was a Past Grand Matron of Unity, Grand Chapter O.E.S.; President of the Wisconsin State Association of Colored Women’s Clubs; and a charter member of The Women’s Culture Club of Beloit, the oldest Black club—using as their motto “Lifting As We Climb.”

Mrs. Peterson was employed as Manager of Turtle Creek Swimming Pool for 20 years. She was also employed by Beloit College as House Mother for fraternities.

She was a member of the Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce and a Diplomat of that organization. Membership also included Beloit Vocational Homemakers and a former member of Beloit Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Pink Ladies.

Survivors (at the time of her death) included two granddaughters: Gloria (Mrs. Frances Vance) of Beloit, now of Milwaukee, and Patricia (Mrs. Wilbert Thomas of Chicago); two grandsons: Arthur A. Peterson of Beloit and Leon F. Peterson of Madison; six great-grandchildren; and one brother, Edward Tibbs of Indianapolis, Indiana, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Ocie was predeceased by Leon (her husband), two sons (Horace and Arthur), and one grandson (Douglas).

Ocie lived not only for today, but thinking of generations that would follow. She became a historian and parliamentarian in her own right. She became a tower of strength for all she left behind.

It is with great respect and admiration that I submit the name of Ocie Nunn Peterson for enshrinement into the Beloit Hall of Fame.