Erica Young, 77, passed away peacefully in the early hours of March 16 at De Greeff Hospice House, with her youngest daughter at her side.

Born in Germany on August 28, 1947, and immigrated to the United States with her family in the early 1950’s. On June 25, 1965, she married Gerald Young, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and devotion. Erica worked for the Missouri Department of Corrections in the food service department before retiring. She found joy tending to her garden, nurturing her flowers, and feeding the birds. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she embraced Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior.

She is survived by her children: Paula (Cesar) Garfias of Houston, Texas; Eric (Dina) Young of Stover, Missouri; and April Young of St. Louis, Missouri. She also leaves behind her brother Michael Stec of New Jersey and sister Sophie Bialecki of Florida. Erica was a beloved grandmother to Chris, Dustin, Justine, Sean and Mateo and a great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Young, her parents, Theodore and Anna Stec; and her grandson, Joshua Garfias.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to de Greef Hospice House in St. Louis, Missouri.