Erika R. Eugene

Erika Robin Eugene was born on February 20, 1971, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Edward “Butchie” Eugene III and Shirley Curtis. She attended John F. Kennedy High School in New Orleans before moving to Santa Maria, California, in 1988, where she would then complete her schooling at Santa Maria High School. She went on to continue her education at Allan Hancock College, receiving her Associate’s Degree in Criminology.

One of Erika’s greatest passions in life was hairstyling. She had a natural gift for it and her talent became well known throughout the community. For many years, she styled the hair of countless friends, family members and neighbors, bringing confidence, beauty and joy to everyone who sat in her chair. It wasn’t just a skill for her, it was a calling and you could never doubt that she poured perfection, creativity and love into every head she touched.

In addition to her work as a hairstylist, Erika’s profession consisted of working as a Group Home Care Worker and as a Campus Monitor. Upon relocating to Houston, Texas, Erika began working at Home Depot, where she dedicated herself to the MET team. She went about her professions with the same dedication and perfection she applied to all other aspects of her life. Her reliability, strong work ethic and straightforward personality made her a valued and respected part of the team.

Erika was a woman whose presence was unmistakable; sincere, assertive and authentic in every regard. She was the person you could come to with anything on your mind. Her advice was straightforward, sometimes not what you wanted to hear, but always exactly what you needed. Dependable to her core, she had a rare way of being both fun and serious at the same time. She was trustworthy to her very core and had that unusual ability to be both lighthearted and serious all at once. The keen wit and natural sarcasm that she possessed had the ability to fill a room with laughter and anyone who knew her knew that Erika was Erika; unapologetically herself. She didn't fake when she wasn't feeling anything, she didn’t pretend and at times her face usually expressed it before her words did.

A perfectionist by nature, Erika believed everything should be done right and done well. She enjoyed the comfort of home and was a true homebody, often diving into crime documentaries or staying up to date on any and everything happening around her. She loved people deeply, even if she didn’t always express it out loud and she carried a heart that was both tough as nails and sweet as pie. Although she would never say it, she found joy in helping, supporting and being there for others in her own unique, unforgettable way.

Erika was preceded in death by her father, Edward Eugene III. She is survived by her mother, Shirley Curtis; her partner, Cortez Alexander; her daughters, DaQueta Russ and Dyahvion Redd; her brothers, Guy Thompson Jr. (Tangie) and Rodrick Eugene-Harris (Tangela); and her nieces, nephews, a host of family, friends and colleagues.

Those who had the blessing of knowing Erika will remember the memories of her honesty, humor, strength and love for the rest of their lives. She leaves behind a legacy of authenticity, compassion and unwavering loyalty.

A visitation will be held at The Windsor Village Church Family, located at 6011 W. Orem Drive in Houston on Friday, December 12 at 10:00 a.m.

The funeral service will take place at The Windsor Village Church Family, located at 6011 W. Orem Drive in Houston on Friday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m.