Maria Lynn Chesher

With profound sorrow and love, we remember and honor the life of Maria Lynn Chesher, whose presence shaped countless lives through quiet strength, unwavering compassion, and fierce devotion to those she loved. Maria, 50, of Adrian, Michigan, passed away in the early morning hours of January 16, 2026, just moments after reaching her fiftieth birthday, a milestone she fought to see, surrounded by family and held in love.

Born on January 16, 1976, in Adrian, Michigan, Maria lived a life defined by resilience, kindness, and an extraordinary ability to care for others. She was the oldest daughter of Nellie Carey and the late David Gutierrez, a role she cherished.

Maria faced challenges with courage and perseverance, continuing to give of herself even during difficult seasons. Though her journey was not easy, it was deeply meaningful, and she lived a life to be proud of.

Above all, Maria was a mother. Her four children were the center of her world and her greatest source of pride. She found joy in every milestone and achievement, always cheering them on. Her love for her children was fierce, unwavering, and unconditional. Maria treasured time spent with her family, especially traveling up north with her children and lifelong partner, Jason, where she loved adventuring in the woods and creating memories together.

Maria was intelligent and thoughtful, with strengths and insight that revealed themselves over time. She had a natural ability to help others see situations in a different light, often offering perspective with honesty, empathy, and quiet understanding. Determined and uplifting in spirit, she tried her best even in difficult moments and made those around her feel supported and understood.

Maria never turned away someone in need and was often the first to reach out with care and concern. Through her consistency and quiet acts of service, she left a lasting impression on the Adrian community and on the many friends and family members who knew her as a steady presence, a source of strength, and someone who loved deeply and authentically.

Maria was preceded in death by her father, David Gutierrez; her sister, Davina Carey; her aunt, Theresa Carey; and her grandparents, Robert and Alice Carey, and Valentine and Juanita Gutierrez. She is survived by her four beloved children, Aaron (Ben) Chesher, Sydney Chesher, Alona Carey, and Ruben Varo; her partner, Jason Chesher; her loving mother, Nellie Carey; her brothers, David (Amber) Carey and Michael Gutierrez; her sisters, Cassandra Gutierrez, Jennifer Gutierrez, and Rebecca Evans; her brother in law, Kevin Rice; and many cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Maria Lynn Chesher was one of a kind. She taught those around her how to love without conditions, how to show up when it mattered most, and how to keep going even when life was hard.

 She was deeply loved and will never be forgotten.