A Life Cut Short: Remembering Erica B. Copping (1990-2025)
It’s with a heavy heart that we share the news of Erica B. Copping’s passing on November 25, 2025, at Moncton City Hospital in Moncton, NB, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Her departure leaves a void that words can scarcely fill, but her vibrant spirit and legacy will forever inspire those who knew her.
Born to Shine
Erica was born in 1990 in St. Stephen, NB, to Danny and Lori Dempsey. Her life was a testament to hard work, passion, and love. She married Brad Copping, and together they raised two beautiful daughters, Arya and Lila, who were the light of her life.
A Work Ethic That Inspired
From a young age, Erica demonstrated an unwavering work ethic. At just 15, she landed her first job at Lonicera Hall in St. Stephen, earning her first cell phone—a milestone that symbolized her independence. Later, while studying at UNB, she worked as a waitress in Fredericton’s fine dining scene, balancing academics with a demanding job.
A Competitive Spirit That Sparked Joy
Erica was a natural competitor, whether it was cheering for the New England Patriots (and playfully ribbing her friends on Sundays) or dominating in fantasy football leagues. Her pride in outperforming the men in her leagues was infectious, proving she could hold her own in any arena.
Pageantry and Beyond
In her teens, Erica’s competitive spirit shone in pageants, where she honed her interview skills and charisma. Her achievements were remarkable: crowned Miss Teen New Brunswick 2007, she competed in the Miss Teen Canada pageant, placing as the 2nd runner-up. She later represented Canada as Miss Canada Collegiate 2013 at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. These experiences not only brought her national recognition but also lifelong friendships across Canada and the U.S.
A Love Story for the Ages
Erica’s greatest partnership was with Bradley Copping, whom she met in 2009. Their bond was unbreakable, and they married in 2016 in Oak Bay, NB. Together, they traveled the world—from a month-long honeymoon in Bali to adventures across Canada and the U.S.—and cherished simpler joys like cooking, camping, and renovating their home. Their golden retriever, Jaba, was always by their side, a furry testament to their love.
A Creative Visionary
After moving to Fort McMurray, Alberta, Erica discovered her passion for interior decorating. Her keen eye for color, texture, and style transformed spaces, and she reveled in bringing her clients’ visions to life. Her creativity knew no bounds, and her projects were a source of immense pride.
A Mother’s Legacy
Above all, Erica’s greatest joy was being a mother to Arya and Lila. She found magic in the everyday—bedtime snuggles, the sound of their laughter, and teaching them life’s little lessons. Her love for her daughters was boundless, and she often reminded them, “I love you through and through, yesterday, today, and tomorrow too!”
A Family United in Grief
Erica is survived by her husband, Bradley Copping; daughters, Arya and Lila; parents, Danny and Lori Dempsey; brother, Cody Dempsey; grandmother, Janice Lindsay; grandparents, Cheryl and Jim Dempsey; brother and sister-in-law, Luke and Lianna Copping; mother-in-law, Katherine Arseneau; father-in-law, Desmond Copping; and countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and her dear friend Katie Curran. She is predeceased by her grandfather, Charles (Buddy) Lindsay, and grandmother, Judith Crosby.
A Legacy That Lives On
Erica’s outgoing personality and passion left an indelible mark on everyone she met. While her absence is deeply felt, her spirit lives on in her daughters and the love she shared with her family and friends.
Honoring Erica’s Memory
Visitation will be held at The S. O. Mehan & Son Funeral Home, 23 Main Street, St. Stephen, NB, on Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 5 pm to 7 pm. The funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 2 pm, followed by interment at Scotch Ridge Cemetery in Scotch Ridge, NB.
In Lieu of Flowers
To honor Erica’s memory, donations can be made to her family via the funeral home or at https://gofund.me/895aa9351. Condolences may be shared online at www.mehanfuneralhome.ca.
A Thought to Ponder
Erica’s life was a tapestry of love, ambition, and resilience. But here’s where it gets thought-provoking: How do we honor the legacies of those who leave us too soon? Is it through our memories, our actions, or something more? Share your thoughts below—let’s keep Erica’s spirit alive in the conversation.
