Erica Alterio; Obituary, Death: It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Erica Alterio, 34, of Connecticut, who passed away on January 12, 2025. Erica’s death has left an immeasurable hole in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She was a beloved daughter, sister, friend, and a compassionate soul whose presence brightened the lives of everyone she encountered.
While her time with us was far too short, her impact will be felt for generations to come. Erica was born on October 24, 1990, in Hartford, Connecticut, to her devoted parents, Laura and Joseph Alterio. From the very beginning, Erica exhibited a vibrant and inquisitive nature that captured the hearts of those around her. Growing up in the picturesque New England town of Glastonbury, Erica was always full of life, eagerly exploring the world with a smile that could light up any room.
She had an infectious sense of humor and a heart full of warmth, which made her a joy to be around. Erica graduated from Glastonbury High School in 2008, where she was known for her enthusiasm, kindness, and intellectual curiosity. She was a natural leader, and her peers admired her for her ability to bring people together and make them feel valued. Erica excelled academically and was especially passionate about art and design.
Her creativity was boundless, and she dreamed of a career in graphic design, which led her to pursue a degree in Visual Arts at the University of Connecticut. There, she continued to hone her craft and found her true calling in the world of graphic design and digital media. After earning her degree, Erica worked as a freelance graphic designer, creating beautiful, thoughtful designs that reflected her artistic vision and attention to detail.
Her work was celebrated for its elegance and creativity, and she built a loyal client base who admired her talent and professionalism. Erica poured her heart into every project, always striving to create something meaningful and unique. Despite her success in her career, it was Erica’s ability to connect with others on a personal level that truly set her apart. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel understood and valued, and she built lasting friendships that spanned many years.
In addition to her artistic talents, Erica was known for her immense compassion and unwavering generosity. She was the kind of person who always put others before herself, offering support and love to family, friends, and even strangers in need. Her empathy knew no bounds, and she often volunteered her time with local organizations, particularly those that focused on helping at-risk youth and providing support for mental health initiatives.
Erica believed deeply in the power of kindness, and she dedicated herself to making the world a better place, one person at a time. Erica’s love for her family was boundless. She shared a special bond with her parents, Laura and Joseph, who were not only her caregivers but also her greatest sources of support and encouragement throughout her life.
Erica’s younger brother, Daniel, was her closest confidant and lifelong friend. Their sibling bond was one built on shared memories, mutual respect, and a deep, unconditional love. Erica was a guiding light for Daniel, and he looked up to her for her strength, resilience, and the unwavering care she gave to those she loved.
While Erica had a quiet and reflective side, she also loved to have fun and enjoy life. She was an avid traveler, always eager to experience new cultures and learn from the world around her. Whether it was hiking through the Connecticut countryside, exploring cities across the globe, or attending art exhibits, Erica approached every adventure with a sense of wonder and a thirst for knowledge.
She loved the simple pleasures of life—good food, great conversation, and spending time with the people who meant the most to her. Her laughter, positivity, and zest for life were contagious, and those who knew her could not help but feel uplifted in her presence. Erica’s passing has left a deep, unfillable void, not only in her family but also in the lives of her many friends and acquaintances.
Her loss is felt profoundly by all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was a woman of remarkable strength, resilience, and grace, and her impact on those around her will never be forgotten. Erica is survived by her loving parents, Laura and Joseph Alterio; her brother, Daniel Alterio; her maternal grandparents, Virginia and Charles Miller; her paternal grandmother, Maria Alterio; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Antonio Alterio, who adored her deeply. Erica’s family takes solace in knowing that she is now reunited with him and all those who have passed before her. A celebration of Erica’s life will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Theresa’s Church, located at 234 Main Street, Glastonbury, Connecticut.
Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM, prior to the funeral mass. Following the service, there will be a reception at the family home, where friends and family can gather to share memories and support one another during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, Erica’s family has requested that donations be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or to a local organization supporting mental health awareness.
Erica was a passionate advocate for mental health and believed deeply in breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. Her family hopes that by supporting these causes, her legacy will continue to help those in need, just as she did during her lifetime. Erica’s death has been a devastating reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to cherish the moments we have with those we love.
Although she is no longer with us, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Erica’s kindness, creativity, and loving spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. She may be gone from this world, but she will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Erica. You were a light in this world, and your memory will continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved you. You will forever be missed. GoFundMe
