The softball world has come together in heartfelt unity following the passing of Heidi Velasco Estrada, a beloved wife, mother, friend, and passionate supporter of the game.
Heidi, whose kindness and joy touched so many, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025, leaving behind a community deeply saddened by her loss.
Her death was completely sudden and unexpected. She resided in Galena, Ohio, with her husband, Erik Estrada, and their daughter Lily (age 14). Her middle daughter, Tia, is a freshman at the University of Cincinnati, and her oldest daughter, Janesa, coaches softball in the Chicago area. Heidi’s parents and sister also live in the Chicago area.
A devoted mother and enthusiastic sports supporter, Heidi was always her daughters’ biggest fan—cheering for Tia during her years as a gymnast and supporting Lily since she joined the Beverly Bandits during her 11U season, where she has played for the past three years.
Heidi’s presence within the Beverly Bandits 2011 Perry family was nothing short of radiant. Known for her warmth and unwavering encouragement, she stood proudly behind her daughter, #33, Lily Estrada, and her teammates under the guidance of Head Coach Alesha Perry shared:
“Heidi was an absolute gem in every way. Always willing to help anyone and the biggest cheerleader for every girl on the field. She was always smiling and had an infectious personality. Heidi was a loving wife and mother to a beautiful family. Her presence at the softball field will be dearly missed. Her loss has heavily impacted our team and we will continue to play for Heidi as we watch our girls learn and grow in the sport.”
Coach Perry continued, “this loss has reminded all of us that this is just a game but it’s the people that make it special. Sending lots of love and prayers to the Estrada family, especially our #33 Lily, today and every day. We find comfort in knowing that the softball community is strong and will continue to support them through this very difficult journey.”
As the team and community mourn this loss, we are reminded of the words in Romans 12:15, which calls us to “…mourn with those who mourn.” In this moment of sorrow, we stand together as one softball family—lifting the Estrada family in prayer and love.
“Heidi Estrada had been a supportive and loving mother of Lily Estrada, who has been an integral piece of the Beverly Bandit 14U – Perry team for the past three years,” said Bill Conroy, leader of the Beverly Bandits organization. “Her passing was sudden and completely unexpected and was devastating for everyone that knew her, including the entire Bandit organization.”
A GoFundMe link has been shared to assist the Estrada family during this difficult time.
Beyond financial support, contributions represent a collective message: that the softball community stands united in compassion, faith, and solidarity. Your prayers, words of encouragement, and gestures of kindness matter deeply to those navigating this heartbreaking season.
It’s difficult to understand why things like this happen. This is when we must rally around one another and be reminded of how fragile life is—and how important it is to lead with kindness and grace.
From all of us at Extra Inning Softball, we extend our deepest condolences to the Estrada family, the Beverly Bandits organization, and all those who loved Heidi. May the Lord wrap His arms around Lily, her family, Coach Alesha Perry, and the entire Bandits family as they grieve, heal, and find strength in one another.
Life is precious—and though we cannot always make sense of loss, we can honor those we’ve loved by showing up for one another, cherishing every moment, and never forgetting that our shared love for this game is about far more than the field.
💛Please keep the Estrada family in your prayers, and if you are able, consider donating through the official GoFundMe link to support them during this time.💛
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