Erica Mandelbaum

Erica Mandelbaum (Gottfried)

October 2, 1956 – August 9, 2026

Erica Mandelbaum, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, advocate, and friend, passed away on August 9, 2026.

Born in Miami, Florida, and raised in Tampa, Erica was a proud graduate of H.B. Plant High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and later her MBA from the University of South Florida.

Erica built a varied and accomplished career spanning journalism, corporate communications, and nonprofit event planning and fundraising. Some of the work closest to her heart was her advocacy on behalf of the Parkinson’s community. Through her involvement with organizations including the Parkinson’s Foundation, Erica worked passionately to raise awareness, give a voice to those affected by Parkinson’s, and bring people together in support of a cause that meant so much to her.

Those who knew Erica, however, will remember her for far more than what she accomplished. She was a ray of sunshine. Brilliant, elegant, deeply loving, and endlessly curious, Erica possessed a warmth that was impossible to miss. She was extraordinarily sharp and genuinely funny, with an infectious happiness and positivity that made her an absolute delight to be around. She supported the people she loved fiercely, took a genuine interest in others, and had a remarkable ability to make those around her feel encouraged, welcomed, and cared for.

At the center of Erica’s life was her family. Her marriage to her husband, Sam, and the family they built together were among her greatest sources of happiness and pride. She was a devoted and loving mother to Lia Mandelbaum and her wife, Deah Quinlivan, and Ben Mandelbaum and his wife, Vanessa Mandelbaum, whose lives she filled with encouragement, support, laughter, and an unwavering belief in them. Becoming a grandmother brought her another profound source of joy, and she cherished her grandchildren, Maximiliano, Isabella, Andes, and Ari.

Erica’s love for her family was part of the same generous spirit she brought to the wider world. Whether supporting someone she loved, advocating for the Parkinson’s community, or simply brightening a room with her warmth and humor, Erica showed up for people. She will be remembered for her tremendous heart, bright smile, her extraordinary spirit, her curiosity and laughter, and the light she brought into the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Congregation Schaarai Zedek, 3303 W. Swann Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33609, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Erica’s memory to the Tampa JCCs & Federation Parkinson’s Program, the Parkinson’s Foundation, or a nonprofit of your choice.