Erika Kristine Romero, née Hess, passed away very unexpectedly on October 3, 2026, in Safford, Arizona. She was born on April 25, 1973, in Anaheim, California, and lived a life rooted in love, family, and a spirit that will be remembered by all who knew her.

A cherished milestone in her life came in 1992, when she married Alejandro Romero in Murrieta, California, and beating cancer. Their marriage became the heart of a family that grew across the years and remained central to Erika’s life. She carried with her a memorable outlook, reflected in the sayings she loved: “Live in moderation,” “Peas and carrots,” and “Pain is beauty and beauty is pain.” Those words, each in their own way, captured something of her personality and the distinct voice her loved ones will continue to hear in their hearts.

Erika is survived by her husband, Alejandro Romero; her daughters, Larina Arrellin, Delila Romero, and Brittni Romero; and her son, Alex Romero. She is also survived by her mother, Peggy Hendricks, and her father, Larry Hess, along with her aunts Laura & Ondi, her uncle David, and countless nieces and nephews. She leaves behind her sister, Lisa, and her brother, Rick, along with her sisters-in-law, China and Sharon, and her brother-in-law, Christian.

Her family circle also includes her beloved grandchildren, Gabrielle, Jr, Dallas, Dillion, Aliza, and Amiya, who brought joy and pride to her life. She is further survived by her cousin Joie, and her cherished pets, Simba & Nala, companions who were part of the warmth and daily rhythm of her home.

Erika was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Betty and Mary; her grandfather, Bill; her step-father, Jay; her uncle, Bill; her aunts, Charolette and Dana; her cousin, Carley; her nephew, Steven, and her pets Ojoe, Baby girl, Seeko, and Harley.

Those who loved Erika will remember her with deep affection, carrying forward the memory of her presence, her words, and the place she held in the lives of her family. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved so dearly and in the many bonds that continue because of her.

Services for Erika will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with the Celebration of Life to follow from 2:00 until 5:00 p.m. at The Way Church on Highway 191 in Safford.