Maria Kathleen Adrian (affectionately known as "Ree" or "Ria"), 44, of Utica, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 11, 2023.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, beginning at 1 PM at Law-Baker Funeral Home, 34 N. Main St., Utica, OH 43080. Before the service, the family will receive friends starting at 11 AM. Burial will follow at the South Lawn Cemetery. Immediately after, family and friends are welcome to gather at the American Legion, 10 S Washington St, Utica, OH 43080.

Maria was born in Cincinnati, on March 27, 1979, to Vincent John Adrian and Patricia Lynn (Mayne) Adrian. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her loving husband, Andy Cotter; children, Roger (Arie Alvarado) Cornell, Nathaniel Cornell, Peyton (Rilee Williams) Baker, Paige Baker, Leland Baker, and Teigan Cotter; granddaughter, Piper Cornell; sister, Alina (David Williams) Adrian; mother-in-law, Dorothy Cotter; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Roy and Edna Mayne, and Adam and Virginia Adrian; stepfather, Mark Little; uncles, Sonny Adrian and Bruce Adrian; and great-aunt, Nancy Hampton.

Maria had a big heart and an even bigger personality, drawing family and friends to her side. A child at heart, she always had a giddy excitement for the holidays. From watching scary movies with her kids on Halloween to whipping out the Christmas decorations at the first sign of frost, Maria's infectious holiday spirit always found a way to enchant those around her.

Maria will always be remembered for her passion for books, movies, and music. She especially loved the Harry Potter series and all manner of slasher films. If she wasn't jamming out to New Kids on the Block, she could be found not-so-subtly "requesting" that her kids play and sing songs for her.

Stubborn and strong-willed, Maria was never afraid to say what she thought. The middle finger even grew to become her greatest sign of affection. Her strength and resilience undoubtedly helped her and her family deal with life's many challenges. Maria's life was heavily punctuated by the unique connections and relationships she made with everyone she met.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude toward the doctors and nurses at Licking Memorial Hospital and the OSU Wexner Medical Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made electronically to the family's Venmo @MariaAdrianMemorial or checks can be sent to PO Box 634 Utica, Ohio 43080 to the attention of David Cotter.

… Mischief Managed.