She was born July 28, 1956, in Spokane, Washington, to John Alexander McQuitty and Frances Dorothy Pelechowiez. At the age of five, she moved with her family to Connecticut and at the age of seven, they moved to Bremerton, Washington where she grew up and attended school. She graduated from high school in Bremerton in 1975. She attended Washington State University.

On September 19, 1980, she married R. Kent Whitehead in Idaho Falls.

She was raised in the Catholic church.

She enjoyed spending time with her friends, dancing, socializing at community events, doing crafts, camping, swimming, traveling, shopping, animals, and spending time with her family, especially with her grandchildren, Bryce, Jacob, Isaac, and Jalisa. She was enthusiast about decorating for the holidays and purchased complete new Christmas decorations every year.

She is survived by the following: husband, R. Kent Whitehead of Idaho Falls daughter, Amy Nicol Whitehead of Idaho Falls step-son, Joshua Kent Whitehead of Oregon brother, Thomas McQuitty of Anchorage, Alaska sister, Jean McQuitty of Oregon 4 grandchildren

She was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters, Kathy and Joan McQuitty.

A Wake will be held in her honor from 6-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at Karen's Park Avenue Club, 362 Park Ave., Idaho Falls.

Arrangements have been under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary in Idaho Falls.