Erika Szalai, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026. Born on July 22, 1942, in Czechoslovakia, Erika came to the United States in 1956 and was a resident of Roebling, New Jersey. She built a life centered around family, friendship, faith, and love.

Erika retired from the Taxation Department for the State of New Jersey before moving to Florida in 2002 with her late husband Tihamer Szalai. She was a devoted member of Ascension Catholic Church and found joy in life’s simple pleasures — baking and cooking for those she loved, relaxing at the beach, fashion and shopping, and spending time with her beloved cat, Princess.

Erika is survived by her children Erika Becker, of Melbourne, who lovingly cared for her; Elizabeth Finkel, of Palm Bay; and Tibor Szalai of Melbourne. She is also survived by nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one niece. She is also survived by her friends Lupe and Vera.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tihamer Szalai; her brother, Gustav Jurkowitch; and her parents, Gustav Jurkovic and Elena Rodena Pumelova.

Erika will be remembered for her strength, warmth, elegance, caring nature, and the devotion to those she loved. Erika was deeply devoted to her family and especially treasured her role as grandmother and great-grandmother. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A service will be announced at a later date. Anyone wishing to send the family a message or share a story is asked to visit Erika’s memorial page at www.davisseawinds.com