When news that Erica Andrews passed away broke on Monday night, the outpouring of grief was not only widespread and sincere, but surprisingly diverse. Andrews, who died unexpectedly on March 10 of a lung infection in Chicago, straddled many communities.
She amassed an impressive list of drag titles in her decades-long career, including Miss Gay Texas USofA 1997, Miss Gay USofA 1999 and Entertainer of the Year 2006. But her fame expanded beyond the pageant world.
As a trans woman, Erica (born Eddie) was an icon for the transgender community, having been profiled in the trans documentary Trantasia and appearing as a guest on The Tyra Banks Show. She mentored other drag queens, including serving as “drag mother” for current RuPaul’s Drag Race finalist Roxxxy Andrews (who, consistent with tradition, took Erica’s last name as a sign of respect). She was active in many gay causes, including being the first model to pose for photographer Jorge Rivas’ Faces of Life HIV/AIDS awareness campaign (pictured). And she headlined the first “transploitation” grindhouse spoof, 2010’s Ticked Off Trannies with Knives, directed by Israel Luna.
“She understood that to make it in the industry, you had to be smart and easy to work with,” recalls Luna. “On TOTWK, she was quiet, professional and funny. I had cast her in my next film and spoke to her about being the lead in the one following. She had set a high bar in the entertainment world. Although her body is no longer here, her spirt, soul and mark of talent will live on. I will miss her dearly.”
Luna is not alone in his sentiment. Dozens of fans and friends left messages on DallasVoice.com when word of her passing spread. “The trans community has lost a great woman,” one posted. “Erica [was] always doing something to help people and our GLBT community,” offered another. “She lived a fuller life than some who live until 100,” opined another. “She was my mother & she never knew it,” lamented another.
Although Andrews moved to Chicago with her boyfriend last year, her ties to Dallas remained strong; as of press time, the ilume had scheduled a memorial service, including candlelight vigil, on March 14. It’s an appropriate tribute to someone whose light burned so bright and enriched so many with its warmth.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition March 15, 2013.