Erica C. McLean

Erica Charmaine McLean was born on April 5, 1972 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Chesnut Hill Hospital to Edward Lee McLean and Ethel Vernell Wilbourn McLean.

Erica, affectionately nicknamed “Ricky”, was educated in the Philadelphia public school system where she attended Samson Freedman Academy of Humanities and graduated from Lankenau Motivation High School. After high school, Ricky attended the Community College of Philadelphia where she earned a Liberal Arts degree. She then attended Temple University where she graduated with an undergraduate degree in Education. Lastly, she attended St. Joseph’s University where she took encroachment classes towards her various certifications and gained a Master’s degree in Education.

After college, Erica embarked on her career with the school district of Philadelphia as a special education teacher. Ricky’s caring nature and ability to identify kids in need made her a favorite amongst the students she taught.

Erica was proud to be a member of Philadelphia’s Young Democrats and participated in several historical events such as President, Bill Clinton’s visit to Philadelphia.

Aside from work and influencing social change, Erica had a sense of humor that could turn a frown into a smile. Some of her favorite activities revolved around her special needs students, traveling, swimming, singing and socializing with family and friends. As the eldest cousin, Ricky would often serve as the oracle of wisdom for her younger family members. She was always willing to lend an ear and offer honest advice.  Erica was an active member of Woodcrest United Church of Christ where she was always willing to volunteer, praise and worship our Lord and Savior. Ricky had a genuine, loving, loyal and faithful heart.  She will truly be missed.

On Monday, June 20, 2022 God called Erica home. She is survived by her: brother, Shelton Kelly of North Carolina; uncles, Paul McLean and Miles Wilbourn; aunt, Gloria Wilbourn Daniels;  niece, Nicole D. Kelly; great nephew, Nicholas Kelly; great niece, Nadia Jones; and a host of cousins, family and friends.

Submitted With Love,

The Family

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