Erika Elaine Smith, 38, was born to Barbara Smith and Percy Perry on August 23, 1978 in Kansas City, Missouri. Her father, Percy Perry; grandparents, Aaron and Bettie Williams; brother, Cary Smith; and uncle, Wayne Williams, preceded her in death. Her early years of education were at St. Therese Little Flower School in Kansas City. She later attended Bishop Hogan High School and Paseo High School before graduating from a private school in 1996. Erika enjoyed dancing and attended Caruthers Creative Center Dance Studio for many years. She went on to open her own dance studio where she enjoyed working with her students and hosting dance recitals. In 2004, Erika gave birth to the love of her life, Isley Julian Tyler. She took pride in raising him to be an intelligent and respectful young man. She made sure he had the best of everything. Erika loved taking Isley on vacations and exposing him to new experiences. She also delighted in throwing Isley elaborate birthday parties and recognizing every holiday with a special celebration. Erika was employed by The Internal Revenue Service for many years. She became friends with many co-workers. Erika also enjoyed working for The Sprint Center where she also made many friends. Throughout Erika's life she knew the importance of a relationship with Christ, while allowing her son to grow in the experience as well. Most recently, she and Isley attended the Rhema Church of Independence. Erika enjoyed cooking. She loved to make new recipes and share the results with her neighbors and co-workers. Erika's true passion was shopping, and she liked to surprise loved ones and friends with gifts and tokens. Erika Elaine Smith was called home on Tuesday, May 9, 2017. Her smile and spirit illuminated any room she entered, and she will be remembered for her generosity and kindness. Erika will truly be missed. She leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Isley Tyler; mother, Barbara Smith; siblings, Michael Smith (Florence McDonald) of Kansas City, MO, Deedra Mitchell (Peter) of Lee's Summit, MO, Venita Davis of Hercules, CA, Roderick Perry of Hercules, CA, brother, Ricky Perry of Richmond, CA and Darryl Perry (Tina) of Kansas City, MO; a host of nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. Funeral services will be Saturday, May 20, 11:00 a.m. at Bread of Life Ministries. Private disposition. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the church. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.