Our beloved Erica Louise Dupree Gay was born March 17, 1981 to the late Thomas Dupree and the surviving Mary O’Con Braden in Natchitoches, LA. God gently transported her from time to eternity April 5, 2024 in her Natchitoches residence.
During her youth she was in frequent attendance at the Agape Love Center under the spiritual leadership of Pastor Johnny F. Davis.
She secured her formal education as a student in the Natchitoches Parish Public School System.
Her employment path led her into one of her passions—cooking. The family will fondly recall her special Shrimp Po-Boys and her preparing pico de gallo, which were exceptionally delicious.
Erica entered the sacrament of matrimony with Walter D. Gay of Natchitoches, Louisiana and remained in this bond until her passing.
Preceding her in death were her father, Thomas Dupree, her paternal and maternal grandparents, her uncles: Herbert O’Con, Jr. Henry O’Con, Phillip O’Con, John O’Con, Joe Dupree, Manuel Dupree, Freed Dupree, Donald Dupree and Isaac Dupree; one aunt, Mary Balthazar.
Her memory will live on in those who survive her including, her husband, Walter D. Gay of Natchitoches, LA, her children, Quiana Dupree, Danielle Johnson (Trey-Anthony), Juliana Gay, Walter Gay, Jr and Walter Gay III; Mary Braden and Thomas Dupree, siblings: Steven Dupree (Connesia) and Travis Braden (Sunseri); five grandchildren: Sema’J Dupree, Mazarious Coleman, Jr., Za’marious Coleman, Zaylin Johnson, and Christian Johnson along with many other relatives and friends.
The funeral will be Saturday, April 13,in the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, 2 p. m.
The casketed remains can be viewed prior to the service. Pastor Steven Harris will officiate.