Erica Lynn Hamilton was born to Vernon and Anna Belle (Porter) Hamilton (both deceased) on October 9, 1969. She attended many schools, graduating from Woodbridge High School. She received a B.S. in Sociology from Georgetown University and an MBA from the University of Texas in Austin. She was baptized at the Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Church in New Orleans. Her education continued with certifications in Conflict Management, Introductory Public Policy/Public Service, The NAH Real Estate Professionals, The Silva Method, Mortgage Programs, and Residential Underwriting.

Erica was a member of the Girl Scouts and played the piano. In school she participated in baseball, basketball, swimming, and cheerleading. She also served as a lifeguard. Professional membership included the National Black MBA Association. She pursued a marketing career in the mortgage industry, working for Chase, AIG, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Citi Home Equity, and Freddie Mac. She also worked for SAP, K-Mart, The Volunteer Center of SWLA, and The Children and Family Services Department.

She loved traveling and visited Africa, South America, Spain, Mexico, and other destinations in Europe and the U.S. Erica's heart for service touched lives through volunteerism at Habitat for Humanity, the Volunteer Center of SWLA, the Banners program, Rouge et Blanc, a mentorship program for youth, and the International Club. She leaves a legacy of tireless service, zest for life, and caring concern for others. She is predeceased by her parents, paternal grandparents James, Sr. and De Etta Ballard Hamilton of Lake Charles, LA, and maternal grandparents Joe and Inez Porter of Atlanta, GA.  She is survived by uncles Marion (Lillian) of Ft. Walton Beach, FL, James of Cincinnati, OH, Benjamin (Bobby) and Alexander, Sr. (Sandra), and aunt Lonnie Hamilton all of Lake Charles, LA., and a host of relatives.