Erika Ann Hefner

Obituary: Kannapolis, NC- Erika Ann Hefner, age 32, child of God and beloved daughter of Gerald L. Hefner and Debra Jackson Hefner, died unexpectedly Friday, January 18, 2013 at her home. She was born October 15, 1980 in Mecklenburg County, NC. She was a 1997 graduate in Cabarrus County, NC. Erika was a lifelong learner and enjoyed her computer and iPad. Many afternoons she spent riding her horse, Mandy. She enjoyed traveling especially to the beach and mountains, swimming, art, and attending Broadway Shows. Erika loved nature especially long walks with her dad, visiting Brantley Road friends, feeding her turtles that returned each spring, and using her bridge to her church to enjoy Erika's Garden that was made especially in her honor. On Friday nights you would find Erika cheering on the sidelines for the A.L. Brown Wonders. She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Ralph and Leona Hefner; maternal grandparents, Harry and Janie Jackson; and one uncle, Ralph Hefner, Jr. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 3:45 P.M. Thursday, January 24, 2013 at New Hope Lutheran Church, Kannapolis, NC officiated by Rev. Kim L. Trabold. Burial will be private. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at Whitley's Funeral Home. Also, a further celebration of her life will follow the service in the fellowship hall. The family will be at the residence the remainder of the time. Survivors in addition to her parents include many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends everywhere. Erika was fearless and had an adventuresome spirit. Her love of people and her sparkling smile captivated everyone she met. Memorials may be made to New Hope Lutheran Church, 615 Brantley Road, Kannapolis, NC 28081 or the ARC of Cabarrus County, P.O. Box 1367, Concord, NC 28026-1367. On-line condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com.
Visitation: 5:00PM - 8:00PM Wednesday January 23, 2013 Whitley's Funeral Home

Service: 3:45 PM Thursday January 24, 2013 New Hope Lutheran Church

Interment: Carolina Memorial Park