Rena Marie Prejean

March 5, 1948 - April 16, 2022

Dr. Rena Marie Vallere Prejean graced the world with her presence on March 5, 1948, a daughter born in Iota, Louisiana to Joseph and Enola Leger Valaire. God eternally called his angel Rena, from this earthly life of service, to her heavenly home on April 16th in the year of our Lord 2022. She was raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana and received her general education while attending and graduating from W. O. Boston High School. Rena married Gilbert Prejean Sr. in 1964, they shared 4 children and relocated to Austin, Texas. Rena remained in Austin, TX where she resided with her beloved sister Theresa. Rena continued her education and earned formal degrees and certifications from Sowella Tech -Lake Charles, LA, St. Edward University-Austin, TX, Austin Community College-Austin, TX, Vogue Beauty College-Austin TX, and Velma Brooks Beauty College-Dallas, TX. Rena earned and received her Doctoral degree from the National Institute of Cosmetology in Washington D. C. Professionally, Rena worked over 20 years, as a Social Worker for the State of Texas. Dr. Prejean was a prestigious member and contributor to numerous professional associations. She was an active member of the NBCL-National League, NU SIGMA Sorority, Austin Beauty and Barber Association, and Hair Designers Guild. Dr. Rena Marie Vallere PreJean, held the position and title of Office of 1st Vice President, Texas State Beauty Culturist League. In addition to caring for her family, having presence in her local community and Nationwide, sharing with friends, students, associates, and colleagues her gifts of wisdom, etiquette, cosmetology, and fashion she still found time and energy to serve. All who met her could not help but to live better, increase in wisdom, advance in knowledge, exemplify excellence, and most importantly be gentle, kind, smile, and love. Dr. Rena Marie Vallere PreJean, was everything but your average person, her entire life unselfishly stretched and extended her legacy, above and beyond to Cathedrals, Churches, Ministries, and all God’s children. Mother “Mama” Rena side by side with her beloved sister Mama T labored tirelessly, lovingly, and gracefully. Mama Rena shared her gentle spirit of hospitality, professionalism, style, meticulous attention to detail, wisdom, guidance, hugs, and endless love. She was committed to every cause, project, memorandum, etc. you name it, nothing was left incomplete because Mama Rena saw to everything. She was a committed member, an evangelist, a friend to all she met and the Distinguished Church Mother of the Church of Zion, Inc. Austin, Texas. Mama Rena continued her Christian service at the Light of the Vine Church. Let it be resolved on behalf of every Ministry she has served, Dr. Rena Marie Vallere PreJean “Mama Rena” has fulfilled her Christian duty as an angel on this earth. Mama Rena has earned her wings in Glory. May her legacy sustain us, and we do half as much as she did. Well done thy good and faithful servant, you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many. Matthew 25:23. Rena was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph and Enola Leger Valair, Brothers: Corris Vallery, Mitchell and Evelyn Valaire, Joseph Jr. Valaire, Sister: Nora Vallere LeDay Nephews: Ronald Thierry, Ivan Thierry. Rena leaves behind to cherish her memory Sister: Theresa Valaire Dunns Children: Gary Prejean of Kentucky, Sarah Sanders (Willie) Hutto, Gilbert Jr. Prejean (Marie) Round Rock, Adela Prejean Elgin, Pierre Sanders (Tiffany) Hutto whom she raised, 22-Grandkids, 27-Great Grand Kids, 3-Great Great GrandKids and a host of nieces, nephews, family members and friends