Erica Gonzales Bernal went with the Lord on May 19, 2024, with her Family at her side. She passed at MD Anderson Hospital in Houston, Texas. She was born on October 27, 1980, to Gabino, Jr. and Dora Chapa Gonzales in San Antonio, Texas.

Erica was a proud Pleasanton High School Alumni of the Class of 1998, Saint Mary's University Bachelor of Arts Class of 2002, She was an Alpha Phi Sorority Sister at St. Mary's University and Texas A&M University-Commerce - Master of Education Class of 2013.

Erica's love for children and education was present at various school districts throughout the state. Her career started at South San High School in San Antonio, Texas teaching and coaching the girls' basketball team before going to Southwest High School.  She transferred with her husband to Atkins High School in Austin, Texas and Sharyland High School in Mission, Texas.  Where she started the AP World History Class and also taught Government. At Southwest ISD, she was the Academic Dean, and taught Government, Economics, coached track and cheer. Being the principal at the new Pleasanton Elementary Campus in 2017 for 7 years expanded her heart even more for providing the best education for all children. Prior to her MDS diagnosis she was the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Director of CTE/CCMR.

She enjoyed traveling and exposing her children to many cultures and environments.  She attended her children's recitals, volleyball, football, track, and basketball games and awards.  She told them many times they were her best accomplishments.  Her children were her pride and joy.

She was preceded in death by her Maternal Grandfather, Lupe S. Chapa and Paternal Grandparents, Gabino and Margarita Gonzales.

She is survived by her Husband, Paul D. Bernal of 23 years, Children, Sarah Irene Bernal, Paul Anthony Bernal and Emmalyn Victoria Bernal, Parents, Gabino and Dora Chapa Gonzales, Brother, Andrew Jason Gonzales and wife, Miranda, Niece, Elia Rose Gonzales and Nephew, Abraham Jason Gonzales, Maternal Grandmother, Victoria Cantu Chapa, along with Numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

A Memorial Service will be on June 8, 2024, at 9:30 am at Cowboy Fellowship Church, 561 FM 3350, Jourdanton, Texas with a Mass to follow at 12:00 noon at St. Andrew's Catholic Church, 626 Market St., Pleasanton, Texas.

In Lieu of Flowers, please consider donating towards Erica G. Bernal Scholarship Fund, PO Box 1016, Pleasanton, TX 78064