Ericka Renee Richardson, 53 of Orlando, Florida departed this life peacefully and entered into rest on Thursday evening, July 9, 2026 at Advent Health South in Orlando, Florida. Ericka was born on Sunday, September 24, 1972, to the union of Charles R. Richardson and Myra L. Armstrong on Myra’s grandmother’s 73rd birthday. Her grandmother, Elmira Williams, was affectionately called “Granny”. Ericka was the first grand and great-grand child of three generations on both her mom’s and dad’s families. Ericka was their cherished and only child from a young age, she exhibited a vibrant spirit, a loving heart, and a deep devotion to her faith that would remain a guiding force throughout her life.

Raised in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Ericka was deeply rooted in the teachings and values of her Adventist faith. She was an active member of Patmos Chapel Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she joyfully participated in church choirs, cheerleading activities, and the Pathfinders program. Her love for music and singing was evident throughout her life, and she often uplifted others through song and praise.

Ericka received her education through both private and public schools during her childhood. As a young adult, she embraced new opportunities with determination and enthusiasm. She proudly served in the United States Navy Reserve, demonstrating her commitment to service and dedication to her country.

Never one to stop pursuing her passion, Ericka later studied cosmetology, using her creativity and caring nature to help others look and feel their best. She also became Mary Kay Consultant, where her warm personality, encouragement, and entrepreneurial spirit allowed her to build meaningful relationships and inspired confidence in many people.

Ericka worked in the transplant unit/department at Advent Health South where she was given a new challenge—one in which her Heavenly Father told her she’s going on to a new journey but don’t worry. He had her back. He also said that it was not about her. After hearing this plan, she told Him, “I will go on this journey joyfully!” That’s how this long challenging journey began from 2020 when she was told she had an unusual aggressive breast cancer. She was simultaneously assisting her son with his life changing event when he accompanied her to her first appointment with her oncologist who clearly stated her plight. Ericka went through three bouts of cancer—keeping her faith and trust in God —not flailing or doubting in her foresight God said it and she simply believed Him—that settled it for her.

Ericka carried herself with God’s abiding grace wherever she went. She shared his love with everyone she encountered, leaving a lasting impression through her kind words, warm embraces, uplifting humor and God given wisdom. Her life sparked curiosity and inspired many who struggled in their walk with Christ to ask questions and seek a deeper relationship with him. Through every trial and hardship, Ericka remained steadfast in her faith. She openly shared testimonies of God’s goodness and faithfulness, often declaring, “it could have been worse,” as a reminder of God’s grace and mercy even in life’s most difficult moments.

Above all, Ericka’s greatest joy was being a mother to her beloved son, Marquis Graham Jerome Mike. She treasured the time they shared and poured her love, wisdom, and strength into his life. Her unwavering faith, resilience, kindness, and loving presence will continue to be remembered by all who knew her.

Ericka was preceded in death by her father, Charles R. Richardson, Sr., her brother, Charles R. Richardson, Jr., her uncles, Carlton and Richard Richardson and Cousin Kia Richardson. She leaves to cherish her memories her son, Marquis G. J. Mike, Orlando, her Mom, Myra Armstrong Richardson, Orlando, her siblings, brother Elden Richardson, Auburndale, Florida, sister Janine Michelle Richardson (Brooksville), Sheena Richardson, sister-in-law a host of Aunts, Uncles, and extended family members; Solomon’s Porch and Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church families; and many dear friends whose lives were blessed by her love, faith and friendship. Although our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing her earthly labor is complete. We, the family and friends find comfort in the promise of Paul in God’s word—the Holy Bible, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.: II Timothy 4:7 NKJV