Erica Dawn Norling, 33, of Barre and Auburn, passed surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at St. Vincent Hospital, another victim of the devastating crisis that is stealing our children away from us, drug addiction and dependency.

Erica was born in Worcester, the loving daughter of Stephan K. and Eleanor A (Henry) Norling of Barre and graduated from Quabbin Regional High School in 2001 and Rob Roy Academy becoming a licensed hair dresser. She worked many years in the food service industry, most recently at Papa Gino’s at Lincoln Plaza in Worcester.

Many who saw and knew Erica were struck by her outer beauty, and yet even more amazed by the inner beauty she radiated. She was consistently kind and gentle. She always granted you a smile and a friendly word. She was the most loving daughter, granddaughter, sister and auntie. Her mother was her world.

Besides her parents, Erica leaves a brother, Stephan K. Norling, Jr. and his wife, Krystal (Reardon) of Clinton; her maternal grandfather, Ernest W. Henry of Worcester; her paternal grandfather, Kenneth R. Norling of Auburn; her nephew, Tyler James Norling of Belchertown; her niece, Elizabeth May Norling of Clinton; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. She will also be missed by her loving dog, Spirit.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Erica’s family on Friday, Sept. 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. Funeral services for Erica will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, in the funeral home followed by a committal service at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.