Former Purvis HS Football Player Stephen Michael Erickson Died at 31, Survived by Parents!

Stephen's mother, DeeDee, shared daily updates and prayers as Stephen battled a severe infection until his passing.

August 27, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on August 27, 2026

Stephen Michael Erickson passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2026, at the age of 31, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center after a month-long battle with a severe infection.

He is survived by his parents, Sebron and DeeDee Erickson, his brother, Jesse James Erickson, and his sister, Danielle Ruth Erickson.

Born on October 5, 1993, Stephen’s health troubles began in early July 2026, when he fell ill and was rushed to the emergency room.

His mother, DeeDee Erickson, a usually private person, took to Facebook to share updates and ask for prayers, writing:

He got sick last week and was brought to the emergency room. They said he was getting better but has since had to be rushed to the operating room because of an infection he developed in his arm where the IV was .He had surgery that lasted several hours.He will need more surgery and a lot of prayers. Please pray for my baby

In fact, she posted almost every day as Stephen’s condition worsened.

On July 17, she wrote that Stephen had developed a severe infection in his arm from an IV site. He underwent hours-long surgery, but the infection had spread under his skin, requiring more operations.

DeeDee asked for prayers, saying the situation was life-threatening and that doctors were working hard to save his arm and his life.

The next day, DeeDee shared that Stephen was heavily sedated as the infection continued to spread.

By August 5, his condition had grown critical, and DeeDee posted that he needed a helicopter transfer to UMMC in Jackson.

His blood pressure had dropped dangerously low to 90/28, causing clotting issues and extreme drowsiness. Doctors also found low sodium, potassium, and red blood cell levels, and suspected cellulitis in his leg.

Surgery wasn’t an option due to the risk of bleeding, so they started antibiotics instead. DeeDee admitted she was scared but was trying to stay strong for her son.

On August 12, Stephen’s condition took another turn, landing him back in the ICU.

By August 23, she shared that Stephen’s breathing had become labored, and his blood was turning acidic.

Doctors intubated him, put him on a ventilator and feeding tube, and formed a team of specialists to plan the next steps.

However, despite these efforts, on August 25, DeeDee shared the devastating news, writing, “He’s gone.”

In addition to his parents, Stephen also leaves behind his paternal grandmother, Delores Ann Manning, and his maternal grandmother, Ramona Gail Bryant, both of Purvis, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Stephen was preceded in death by his grandparents, Barnard and Blanche Dyar.

He was a proud member of Good Hope Baptist Church in Purvis.

was passionate about boxing and even co-owned a boxing gym. He enjoyed watching wrestling, listening to music, and collecting comic books and graphic novels with his brother, Jesse.

He also shared a special bond with his brother, Jesse, collecting comic books and graphic novels together.

Reportedly, a visitation for Stephen will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2026, at Good Hope Baptist Church, located at 331 Purvis-Oloh Rd., Purvis, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

A will be held at 3:00 p.m. at the same church, followed by burial at Cameron Cemetery, located on Ernest Cameron Lane in Purvis.

During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Stephen’s parents, friends, and extended family.

Rest In Heavenly Peace, Stephen Michael Erickson!

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Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.

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