Erika Anna Polzer Laird, age 86, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas.
Erika was born on March 9, 1940, in Bohemia, Czechoslovakia, to Josef Polzer and Theresia Janak Polzer. She was raised in Austria, where she spent her early years before immigrating to the United States in 1960. In 1961, she made her home in Dayton, Texas, where she built a life centered on faith, family, and community.
A devoted member of the Roman Catholic faith, Erika lived her life with quiet strength and deep devotion to her loved ones. She was married to her beloved husband, Curtis A. Laird, Sr., for 63 years. As a proud military wife, she faithfully managed their home and family during his deployments, demonstrating resilience and unwavering commitment.
Erika worked as a manicurist for a time and, in the early 1970s, helped run the clothing store “Deans” in Dayton. She was especially known for her love of cooking and baking. Each Christmas season, she delighted family and friends with her cherished tradition of baking German cookies, a gift of love that became a lasting memory for all who knew her.
Above all, Erika treasured time spent with her family, who adored her deeply and will forever cherish her warmth, kindness, and nurturing spirit.
She was preceded in death by her parents Josef and Theresia Polzer; her sisters, Mary and Hilda; and her husband, Curtis A. Laird, Sr.
Erika is survived by her son, Curtis A. Laird, Jr. and his wife, Tina; and her sister, Monika Pirafellner and her husband, Wilhelm.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Palms Memorial Park Cemetery in Dayton, Texas.
Pallbearers will be Bubba Richter, Kenny Mifflin, Morgan Laird, and Brandon Jenkins. Honorary pallbearers will be Buddy Holbrook, Charlie Martin, Donald Gale Moreau, Tommy Mifflin, Chris Burch, David Jenkins, David Taylor, and Harbor Hospice of Beaumont.
Erika will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to family, and the joy she brought to those around her.