Erika Coulson Galloway, 86, of Rock Hill, SC, and originally of Munich, Germany, passed away on September 22, 2024 at White Oak Manor of Lancaster.
Born on March 25, 1938 in Munich, Erika was the only daughter of Ludwig and Maria Rucker. Her early childhood took place during the World War 2 era. In her teen years she became a highly accomplished ice skater and eventually German Ice Skating Champion. Following her graduation from the Sophie Scholl Gymnasium in Munich in 1957, Erika married her first husband Eric Coulson (USAF) in Munich, moved to the United States with him, and eventually settled in Rock Hill in 1959. She continued her education at Winthrop College and earned both a BA Degree (1963) and Master’s Degree (1984).
Despite settling in Rock Hill and acquiring her US Citizenship in 1961, Erika never lost her deep love for her German homeland and split her time evenly between Rock Hill and Munich. She was a world traveler, avid skier and golfer, and had a restless spirit that always spurred her on to new adventures. In 2008, Erika married her second husband James D. Galloway, with whom she shared many more fulfilling experiences, travels, and activities.
Erika was preceded in death by her parents and first husband, Eric Coulson. She is survived by her second husband, James D. Galloway; sons, Coy Coulson (Jodie) and Ben Galloway (Lisa) and daughter, Elizabeth Galloway; grandsons, Charles Coulson, Matthew Coulson, Alexander Galloway (Tamara), and William Galloway (Jill): and 5 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services are private and for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to honor her life can make a donation in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association or any charitable organization of their choice.
Condolences may be made to Erika’s family at www.greenefuneralhome.net.