Obituary of Brenda Marie Erickson

Brenda Marie Erickson passed away October 31, 2021, after a long illness. She is survived by her husband Edward, sons Kevin and Kelly, daughter in law Shari, granddaughters Stephanie and Robin and brother Harry, and nephews Harry, Matthew, and Timothy.

            Born Brenda Marie Farides in 1940 to Father Harry Farides and Mother Stephanie (Jendral) Farides in Astoria, Queens, NY. The family moved to Patchogue, NY in the mid 40’s and joined this small community. Brenda was a graduate of the Patchogue school systems and during her school years was a member of the orchestra and Girl Scouts among other activities. Outside of school she participated in local beauty pageants eventually being crowned Miss Patchogue.

            After briefly attending Parsons College, she returned to New York and took a position with Liberty Mutual Insurance Company in NYC. It was here that she met her future husband and life partner, Edward Erickson, originally from Greensburg, PA, then working as a risk manager with Liberty Mutual. They were married in 1962 and made their home in Jackson Heights, NY. It wasn’t too long before their first son Kevin joined their family followed a few years later by a second son Kelly who made the family complete.

            Brenda was a terrific mom, staying on top of her sons as they grew into men, supporting her husband’s career and making a very comfortable family home. Brenda enjoyed domestic skills learned from her mother that included sewing, knitting and cooking. Many holiday feasts were enjoyed by her friends and family over the years.

            Brenda guided and nurtured her sons as they grew up to be outstanding men who maintained a very close relationship with their mom. They knew that they could always confide in her and get sound and honest advice. As the family expanded, she welcomed daughters-in-law, Shari, and Nancy, and was thrilled to become a grandmother with the addition of two granddaughters, Stephanie and Robin.

She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

In her honor we are asking that in lieu of flowers, please send donations

In Memory of Brenda Erickson to:


Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center


Office of Development


P.O. Box 27106, New York, NY 10087

Donations may be made out to “Memorial Sloan Kettering”.

Please include “In Memory of Brenda M Erickson” in the memo line of the check.