Eric Middleton

Eric Middleton was born on November 22, 1950 at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. Eric was the sixth child born to Odell Middleton and Wilhelmina Dunmore Middleton. Eric grew up in the Red Hook West Houses with his parents and siblings: Kurt, Rommel, Cairo, Iwojima, Viola, Triester, Berlin, Wonjue, Carrol (Vivia), and Okewar. As a child, Eric attended elementary and middle school at P.S. 27. Eric would attend Eli Whitney High School at the age of 15. During his time in public school, Eric was also a member of the Drum and Bugle Corps Group 219. 

As Eric grew into a man, he was determined to find his purpose in life. Eric decided to enlist in the United States Marine Corps at the age of seventeen. Eric was sent to the Vietnam War to serve and defend his country with honor and integrity. On March 6, 1969, Eric was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, then proceeded to move to San Antonio, Texas in pursuit of educational and occupational opportunities. Eric received his GED, and would become a trucker. 

Eric moved back to Red Hook in 1975 residing at 770 Henry Street. Eric was a trucker for over 20 years with the last 19 years working for Louis Schwartz Trucking Company. Eric retired from driving in 1994, and would transition into fatherhood. During the time Eric moved back to Red Hook and his retirement, he fell in love with Annette Freeman. Eric and Annette would proceed to have two sons together: Earik Middleton born September 18, 1995 and Rik Middleton, born August 25, 2000. Eric and Annette raised, loved, and cared for their children William, Lisa, Bryce, Earik, and Rik; and Brice Collins and Carlos Lawrence who are deceased. He also raised, loved, and cared for his grandchildren John, Tyler, Tiara, Tyrissa, Johnnae, and Annalisa; and Great Grandson Caleb. Through thick and thin, good times and bad, Eric and Annette remained with each other for 36 years.

On June 23, 2019, Eric became sick, however he did anything in his power try to recover. Eric remained happy during his time of illness and continued to support his son Earik and Rik in their academic careers. In return, Earik and Rik cared for Eric every day until he passed. During Eric’s remaining months alive, he prayed to God for strength to survive, he asked his children to be strong for him, and he said he loved everyone. 

On February 8, 2020 at 9:17 AM, Eric passed away at Methodist Hospital as a result of Hypoxia. Eric had completed his mission in life; he is free from mortal suffering. Eric is rejoicing in heaven with God, our heavenly father, Jesus our Lord and Savior. Eric is reunited with his parents and siblings who passed before him.

He leaves behind the mother of his children Annette Freeman, his children, his grandchildren, and his great grandchildren. He leaves behind his living siblings Iwojima, Berlin, Carrol, and Okewar. Eric was and will always be loved, honored, and cherished by his family and friends. Red Hook lost a leader, the Earth has lost a hero, his family has lost his mortal existence, but heaven gained an angel. Eric you will be missed deeply, but Eric’s spirit will always be with us, thank you.
 

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