Ericka Danielle Marie Weems was born on October 23, 1983 (#1023), in Akron, Ohio to Brenda and Darrell E. Weems Sr. She was raised in West Akron attending St. Vincent grade school and was a 2002 graduate of John R. Buchtel High School. Throughout her teenage years, Ericka spent her time working with kids and later turned this passion into a career.  She went on to gain her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Ohio State University and a Master’s degree in Education from Kent State University.

In 2012, Ericka achieved her dreams of opening her own daycare, Recess Child Development Center, in Columbus, OH which she operated until the earlier part of this year. She cared for many children and families over the years dedicating her own time and resources to make sure each child was well taught and taken care of.  Ericka extended her service outside of her career into the Akron community as a founding member of the nonprofit Young Black Professionals Coalition, spearheading initiatives like #HashtagLunchbagAkron which fed hundreds of Akron locals several times throughout the years. Ericka was a passionate and active member of the Word Church and truly embodied the principles of the Christian faith.  She had a big heart which was showcased in her selflessness and willingness to help others.  Ericka enjoyed traveling, spending time with friends and family, and truly enjoying life’s precious moments. She was kind, opinionated, and a friend to everyone she came across.

Ericka was preceded in death by her dear Angel, her beloved mother, Brenda Marie Lewis-Weems, her brother Darrell Weems Jr., maternal grandparents, Marjorie Lewis and Wayne Lewis, paternal grandparents, Lovttya Weems and Clyde Weems Sr., and aunts Kim Lewis and Marlynn Weems.

She is survived by her papa bear, her father Darrell “Man” Weems Sr; sister, Shermaine (John) Weems-Reed; brother, Brandon Weems; nieces, Jayana Weems and Johnae Reed; nephew, John Reed lll; God-sisters, Chanelle Walker and Tanesha (Israel) Rorie, God-brothers, Frankie Walker and LeBron James; foster sister, Kandra Arnold; Godparents, Frankie and Pam Walker, best friend Vershanna Miles, and a long host of close friends, aunts, uncles, and cousins.