Erica (Atkinson) Zavala

Erica S. Zavala Atkinson, 51, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025. Born on January 14, 1974, in Bishopville, SC, Erica brought warmth, strength, and compassion into the lives of everyone she touched.

She is survived by her mother Shirley Marshall; stepfather Jessie Forman; grandfather Jimmy Brown; husband Jose Zavala; sons Enrique, Armando, and Eric; siblings Peggy Marshall, Jennifer Atkinson (Ronald), Sandee Bailey, and Lewis Bailey; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, godchildren, aunts, uncles, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her father Lewis E. Simpkins; brother Justin Atkinson; grandmothers Joanne Brown, Willie Ann Hannibal, Bertha Simpkins; grandfather Willie James Hannibal; and aunt Rosa Mae Atkinson of Bishopville.

Erica’s legacy is one of unconditional love, resilience, and service. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered

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