Erin Elizabeth Athey (nee Bell), 46, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Her final days were filled with the same love and family she cherished throughout her life, as she remained by the side of her devoted husband, Justin, until the very end.

She was born February 7, 1980, to her mother, Marsha Bell (deceased), and from her earliest days was surrounded by the steady and devoted love of her grandparents, Fred and June Bell (both deceased) who played an instrumental role in raising her and shaping the heart she carried throughout her life. Their home was her foundation and the bond they shared was deep. There is comfort in knowing they were surely among those waiting to welcome her home at Heaven's gates.

Erin graduated from Ashland University with a degree in Early Childhood Education, stepping into a calling that perfectly matched her gentle spirit. As an elementary school teacher, she had a natural gift with children, but more than anything, she longed to have children of her own.

Soon after college, she moved to Columbus where she met Justin, the love of her life and her greatest blessing. Their marriage was built on deep friendship, laughter, and devotion. In 2009, they began the beautiful family Erin had always dreamed of, welcoming their daughter Avery Marie, followed by their son Jake Patrick, and lastly their daughter Aniston June.

Being a mother was not just something Erin did, it was who she was. Her children were her everything. They were her greatest joy, her proudest accomplishment, and her daily purpose. She lived for them, prayed for them, and poured every ounce of her heart into raising them. Even in her hardest days, she fought with remarkable strength because she wanted more time with them. In her time as their mom, although far too short, she instilled in them a deep faith, unconditional love, and the kind of steady security that will guide them for the rest of their lives.

In 2016, Justin's work brought their family to Roswell, Georgia, where Erin formed lifelong friendships and built a community that quickly became like family. Wherever she lived, she created warmth, belonging, and a home filled with love. The truest "hostess with the mostest." Even as her health challenged her, Erin's spirit as a gatherer of people never dimmed.

Throughout her battle with cancer, Erin faced each day with extraordinary courage and immense faith. Justin never left her side. He was her fiercest advocate, her constant encourager, and her steady strength. Their marriage became a true testament to the vows they made: in sickness and in health. Justin carried those promises faithfully and without hesitation, loving and caring for Erin until her final breath.

Erin is survived by her husband, Justin and her beautiful children, Avery, Jake, and Annie. Erin is also survived by and deeply loved by her father- and mother-in-law, Tom and Kathy Athey, and lovingly embraced by her brothers- and sisters-in-law: Sean, Meghan, Matt, and Carly Athey. Though those titles included the words "in-law," there was never anything formal about the love they shared. She was a daughter and a sister. They were her family. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Chase, Presley, Beau, McKenna, Hudson, and Luke who will miss her dearly but find peace knowing Aunt Erin is their new guardian angel. She was simply the beloved 'Aunt Erin,' a title she wore with immense pride.

Erin's life was defined by compassion, kindness but most importantly unwavering faith.

Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her legacy lives on most powerfully in her children — in their faith, their kindness, their strength, and the love she planted so deeply within them. That love will carry them forward, always.

Mass and Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, in Roswell, Georgia.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church, 11330 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA 30075.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Gate City Brewery, 43 Magnolia Street, Roswell, GA 30075.

There will also be a Celebration of Life offered in Columbus, Ohio at 4:00pm on Saturday March 21st, 2026 at Overlook at Astor Park located at 600 W. Nationwide Blvd, Suite 500, Columbus, OH 43125.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Erin's name to Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University's Glenn Family Breast Center.