Erin Coughlin, age 60, died in January at her home in Jersey City, New Jersey. Erin grew up in Lompoc, California. Erin lived a life rich with intellect, curiosity and hard work.

Erin was the child of Pat Coughlin and Dr. Barry Coughlin, a sister to her brother, Sean Coughlin, and a cousin to extended family members.

The lead product development manager at DIRECTV, Erin was a highly respected corporate leader. Her immediate superior noted that she was known for her strategic insight, integrity, and ability to inspire colleagues. Her professional impact was lasting, and she earned admiration for both her leadership and her perseverance in the workplace.

Erin thrived during her years living in New York City, where she earned a Master’s in Business Administration from New York University. She embraced the city’s energy, culture, and endless opportunities for exploration.

A passionate lover of literature, Erin volunteered her time tutoring students in English literature while she was an undergraduate at the University of San Diego. She held a special affection for Marcel Proust and delighted in guiding students through his works. In addition to her English degree, she also earned a degree in Business Administration at USD.

In her younger years, Erin was a fierce tennis player for Lompoc High School in Lompoc, California. She went on to play collegiate tennis at the University of San Diego. Her competitive spirit and determination stayed with her throughout her life.

Friends and family relied on Erin as their trusted source for book and film recommendations. Her taste was impeccable, and she loved sparking lively conversations about stories that moved her.

Erin cherished her Jersey City apartment building, especially working in the common area and watching the activity in the dog park below. It brought her great joy.

Known for her remarkable memory, Erin was famous at family gatherings—especially Thanksgiving—for recalling sometimes juicy and always entertaining anecdotes from past family outings.

Erin will be remembered for her dedication and hard work.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lompoc Hospital District Foundation in Erin’s memory (https://www.lompocvmc.com/the-foundation/donate/).