Chiquita Lashawn Garland was bom on May 23, 1969, in Quitman, Georgia, to the late Flint Charlie and Ella Gwendolyn Carter. She was educated in the Brooks County School System and proudly graduated from Brooks County High School in 1988. She later earned her Associate's degree in Accounting from Strayer University. Chiquita devoted seventeen years of dedicated, service to the Kroger Company as a payroll accountant, where her professionalism and unwaver ing work ethic left a lasting impact on her colleagues and everyone who had the pleasure working with her. Passionate about her family, she loved deeply and genuinely— her affection could be felt in every hug, every word, and every moment shared.

Chiquita was a guiding light, a safe place, and a source of love that her family and friends could always depend on. Her presence made others feel seen and supported, even in difficult times, and her laughter had a warmth that could brighten any day. Her cooking, seasoned with soul and care, brought comfort in its own right; she didn't just prepare meals she created unforgettable moments where stories were shared, worries eased, and love moved quietly from plate to heart.

Through triumphs and trials, she carried a quiet strength, always offering encouragement and reminding others that they were never alone.

Chiquita was blessed with a large, loving family and cherished each relationship deeply. She leaves to celebrate her life and carry her legacy forward her beloved children, Demetris Dennard (Sherece) of Chesapeake, VA, Jasmine Dennard of Columbus, GA, and Alexis Garland of Columbus, GA; and her precious grandchildren, Deshawn Dennard of Virginia Beach, VA, Jayden Dennard of Norfolk, VA, and Navaen Dennard of Nashville, TN.

She also leaves behind her cherished aunt and uncle, Janice Timms of Orlando, FL, and Robert Lee Thompson of Fort Lauderdale, FL, along with eleven loving siblings: Harvey Moore of Columbus, SC; Swinski Carter of Valdosta, GA; Sonya Graham (Keyston) of Thomasville, GA;

Tina Carter of Virginia Beach, VA; Maria Foster of McDonough, GA; Michelle Carter of Talla-hassee, FL; Jason Carter (Shontia) of Virginia Beach, VA; Chadd Carter (Woodlyn) of Atlanta, GA; Gary Carter (Tiflany) of Atlanta, GA; Gwendolyn Dunbar (Will) of Savannah, GA; and Terrance Carter of Atlanta, GA.

Chiquita's legacy of love, strength, faith, and compassion will forever remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her: Though she has taken her rest, her memory continues to shine brightly through the lives she touched. While our hearts now carry the weight of her absence, they also carry the blessing of having been loved by her. Her legacy lives on in how we show up for one another, in the laughter we share, and in the recipes and memories that will be passed down through generations. Chiquita's love was truly a gift and one that will never leave us.

Visitation will be Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Stevens-McGhee chapel from 3PM-7PM.

Home Going services will be Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 3PM at Calvary Christian Center. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.

Please continue to keep the family in your daily thoughts and prayers.