Erika Berta Garnier

Erika Berta Garnier, age 84, of Blue Ridge, died Thursday, May 7, 2015 at Life Care Center of Copper Basin.

Erika was born in Milsau, Czechoslovakia where she enjoyed a country childhood on the farm surrounded by family. As a teenager and young adult, she and her family suffered the privations of WWII, first from the Germans and then the Russians and Allies. She, nevertheless, fell for and married an American soldier and immigrated to the United States in 1960. She eventually settled in Blue Ridge to be close to family and once again enjoyed the quiet country life she loved so much.

She loved to sew, especially for children, and was constantly making baby quilts for charity and friends. She was a member of Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association for many years and proudly exhibited her quilts during their fiber arts shows and at area festivals. She also enjoyed working in her yard and making jellies from the fruits of her wild plum trees and blackberries.

She will be warmly remembered by all who knew her, but especially missed by her family. She is survived by two daughters and one son, one grandchild and two great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (420 West Main St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513) to help support their various fiber arts programs.

There are no services planned at this time. Arrangements entrusted to the Henry-Cochran Funeral Home of Blue Ridge, GA. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.