Erika Robyn White Mushala, 44, a teacher in Beltsville, Md.
She never forgot her Philadelphia roots and family and friends.
ERIKA ROBYN WHITE Mushala was a Philly gal living in Maryland, her family liked to say.
Erika, who was raised in Germantown, became a highly regarded teacher at Beltsville Academy in Beltsville, Md.
But she came back to Philadelphia regularly, to visit relatives and to work with her mother, Barbara Johnson White, a teacher who was involved in many community activities.
Erika died April 21 after a long battle with cancer. She was 44 and lived in Cheverly, Md.
She was the daughter of Barbara Johnson White and the late Robert Albert White. She attended the Charles W. Henry School and graduated from the Philadelphia High School for Girls. She went on to Howard University in Washington, D.C., graduating in 1993 with a bachelor's degree in education.
She later took courses at Bowie State University in Bowie, Md.
She taught for 22 years at the Beltsville Academy.
"As a mentor to interns and novice teachers, Erika's colleagues often relied on her for professional assistance and advice," her family said.
She married Daniel N. Mushala on April 8, 2000, and they had two daughters, Sydney Nawire and Blair Bahati.
"Erika succeeded in being a phenomenal role model for her girls and her students by providing them with the guidance and core values needed to become successful in life," her family said.
"She built lasting bonds with young people and had a major impact on their academic, social, and emotional growth.
"Erika had a kind demeanor, great sense of humor, infectious smile and a hearty laugh. Her mere presence brightened the room and she absolutely blossomed when spending time with family and friends.
" 'E,' as she was affectionately known, was admired for her calm, cool and classy style."
Erika became an active member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority. "Becoming a 'Delta girl' was an identity she treasured and displayed with passion and pride," her family said.
"Despite establishing residency in Maryland, Erika made it abundantly clear that she was from Philly. As such, she was a steadfast fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, and would enthusiastically taunt area Redskins and Ravens fans while watching football games and supporting her home team."
A skilled "techie," Erika liked to connect with friends on Facebook and play computer games. "She enjoyed shopping, but nothing compared to the excitement she had when planning and participating in cultural and recreational activities with Daniel and their girls," her family said.
While battling her health concerns, Erika's faith in God never wavered, her family said. "The strength and peace she possessed were embodied in her sweet spirit," her family said.
Besides her husband, daughters and mother, she is survived by a brother, Robert.
Services: Were yesterday in Washington, D.C.