Celebrate Erika's Life: Support Her Final Journey

While Erika Agosti was born in Ohio, Vermont always held a special place in her heart. Its serene landscapes and peaceful beauty often drew her thoughts, especially during her later years in Florida's humid warmth. Now, Erika's daughter Mackenzie, who consequently was born in Vermont, is now embarking on a heartfelt journey to bring Erika's ashes to rest in the place she so cherished, honoring both their shared memories, and Erika's deep connection to the beautiful state.

Erika had a heart like no other. Moreover, she sincerely loved her family, especially her Mackenzie, who was the joy and pride of her life, and later her son-in-law's child, a boy named Anthony, who called her Gigi. She instantly became the consummate grandmother, and he became the most loved little guy ever! She was generous to all the children in the household, though, not just with her new grandson; in fact, she played a part in helping the Easter Bunny finance the baskets he brought to the house just before her health scare. She writes about this rocky experience in this post:

Her willingness to lay bare her struggles in that post in an effort to help anyone who might be facing the same challenges, inspired me, as well as her loving tenderness to everyone around her. While she spent her days bringing laughter to everyone around her, we also know that Erika had deep emotional depth, as she mourned the loss of her partner Craig to the end. I loved her for all these amazing traits, but most of all, I loved sharing a grandson with her, and I know that while I love him devotedly, none of my efforts will never replace the hole that her loss will leave in Anthony's life.

I must add that Erika also left behind her cat Ziggy. (Isn't she so cute?) Her dedication to her was also beautiful to see. As you might expect, Ziggy will be cherished by her big sis, Mackenzie, and she will continue to live like a queen.

Truly, Erika was worthy of every tear we have shed in mourning for her. But, thankfully, we don’t mourn without hope. She told me the last time we spoke about our faith that “for those of us who love Jesus, it’s different," and truly, it is. Life, death, and every moment of every day is different because of the grace of God, expressed through his son Jesus. And because of our hope in Christ, we know that we'll meet Erika again in the true home of our hearts, heaven. Until then, let's "Be still and know that [he is] God." Psalm 46:10

This is a tough time for Mackenzie and Luis. Honestly, it's hard for us all. I hope you'll give to the effort at returning her ashes to Vermont, where her heart longed to be. In honor of this wish, we want to allow Mackenzie to make one last trip with her mother to lay her remains down in the place that most felt like home to Erika. Thank you for anything you can add to the effort, and for your earnest prayers.