Erin Moberly took therapeutic horseback riding lessons, attended Rock Creek School, and was a regular at Oktoberfest at Schifferstadt. Her favorite thing was the sound of her father’s voice and being with people who loved her. Born with a rare condition leading to severe and profound developmental delays and complex medical issues, Erin did not walk or talk and needed full adult support for all things. Her parents, Kevin and Nikki Moberly, said that Erin had a unique way of making her needs clear through vocalizations and eye gaze.
In spite of an original diagnosis that suggested Erin wouldn’t survive past the age of 3, she passed away two days after Christmas in December, 2019 at the age of 19. Erin had a strong will to live leading her parents to have a profound sense of pride in her warrior spirit. Her passing left them with a deep sense of loss for their child, and for the vibrant community that had surrounded and supported Erin throughout her life.
To honor Erin’s memory and continue her legacy, the Moberly family established The Erin Christine Moberly Memorial Fund with the Community Foundation. The fund is dedicated to supporting individuals with special needs in Frederick County, ensuring that others receive the same level of care and inclusion that Erin did during her lifetime. This year, the fund reached a significant milestone and made its first grant to the Rides for Good program (part of the Safe Ride Foundation), providing rides to residents of Frederick County with special needs who require transportation to services.
Erin’s life was defined by love and connection. She participated in community events, attended Rock Creek School, enjoyed time at the family’s lake house and was surrounded by a dedicated team of nurses and caregivers who became like family. Erin’s presence shaped every aspect of their lives. Nikki said they worked to make sure Erin was involved in as much as possible, always considering if she would be safe and comfortable.
When Erin passed away, Nikki described the loss as multi-layered. Beyond the immense grief, she also experienced a shift in identity. “Being Erin’s mom was filled with meaning and purpose every day,” Nikki shared. “After Erin died, I was on a search for purpose, and I found it in several ways—one of which was giving back through this fund.”
In addition to creating the fund, Nikki became a Certified Grief Coach, building on her decades of experience as a hospice volunteer. Through The Erin Christine Moberly Memorial Fund, the Moberly family is ensuring that Erin’s spirit continues to touch lives.
“Erin’s life was important to us,” Nikki said. “She had a deep and profound impact on the people who knew her. We wanted to provide a way for her to continue to impact lives in an important and meaningful way through this fund.”
The first grant to the Rides for Good program is just the beginning. With continued support, the fund will expand its reach, making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with special needs in Frederick County. Erin’s legacy is one of resilience, connection, and boundless love—and through this fund, that legacy will live on.
