Erica Parker Marshall

On June 8, 1970, at Brookdale Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, Barbara Parker welcomed her only child, Erica Adrina Parker into the world. From an early age, Erica was known for her vibrant personality. Her mother described her as talkative and sociable, while Erica often jokingly referred o herself as "very dramatic".

Erica spent much of her childhood in Bordentown, Erica attended Clara Barton Elementary School and later MacFarland Middle School, where she met the first of her lifelong friends, Dionne Snell. She went on to attend Bordentown Regional High School where she formed another cherished lifelong friendship with Virlette (Lois) Wright. Together, Erica, Dionne and Virlette became inseparable, more like sisters than friends and shared countless memories. Erica would say how Dionne was the instigator that got herself and Virlette in trouble repeatedly.

After graduating from high school, Erica returned permanently to Rockaway Parkway to live with her mother and Aunt Mae. She enrolled at Brooklyn College, majoring in psychology. During her college years she formed additional lasting friendships with Treena, Shantell and Sonia. Upon earning her degree in psychology. Erica began her professional career at Kingsborough Psychiatric Center and later worked for the New York Department of Motor Vehicles.

One evening, Erica attended a spades party where she met the man who would become her husband, Kenta Marshall. Though it was not love at first sight, their friendship blossomed over two years. After dating for two months, Kenta proposed. The two were married on September 13, 1997. Together, they built a loving family and were blessed with two children, their daughter, Kyra and son, Caleb.

Erica later found her true calling in education, becoming a dedicated and respected teacher. She earned a reputation for her strong work ethic, discipline and exceptional classroom management skills. She was deeply loved by her students and colleagues alike, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Erica was an avid reader and proudly passed that trait to her daughter Kyra. Erica loved to travel. She and Byron were planners for the Marshall/Wright family vacation every year. She was also a fierce and spirited competitor in spades, scrabble, rummy 500 and air hockey, never shying away from a little playful trash talk. Her quick wit and welcoming warmth made her unforgettable to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Erica peacefully passed away at New York Presbyterian Hospital following a courageous month long battle with pancreatic cancer. Her companion, faith, generosity, and boundless love will be profoundly missed by all whose lives she touched.

Eric's memory will be cherished by her devoted husband of 28 years, Kenta; her beloved daughter, Kyra and son, Caleb; loving mother, Barbara; aunts, Delorise and Vernel; best friends/sisters, Dionne and Virlette; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

A graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the Collins Family Cemetery. Professional services with dignity, compassion and care have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.