Maria Kornja, 78, of Parma, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Barice, Serbia to Elena (Strain) Gajta and the late Jon Gajta, Maria carried a deep love for family and tradition with her throughout her life.
She was the devoted and beloved wife of Konstantine Kornja, and a proud, loving mother to Ophelia Kornya and Dimitrie (Marijana) Kornea. Maria was the heart of her family and a cherished grandmother to Samanta Kornea, Cristian Kornea, and Dennis Patrick Verka, whose lives she filled with warmth, care, and unconditional love.
Maria was a dear sister to Elena Turkoane, wife of the late Fr. Andrei Turkoane, and Kostinel Gajta. She was also a loving aunt to Danijela Turkoane and Manujela Dejan, always offering guidance, kindness, and a listening ear.
Maria expressed her love through everything she did. She was artistic and creative, finding joy in needlepoint, drawing, and tending to her gardens—both floral and vegetable. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and celebration. An incredible cook, she lovingly prepared meals not only for her family but also for gatherings and special occasions, always ensuring no one ever left hungry.
A tireless worker both at her job and at home, Maria never put herself first. She worked for the Little Sisters of the Poor for six years and was formerly the owner of the cleaning business franchise Jennie King, always taking pride in her work and service to others. Her greatest happiness came from caring for and pleasing her family. She was deeply involved in her grandchildren’s lives—cooking for them, picking them up from school, taking them to the park, and being present for every moment she could. She gave endlessly, expecting nothing in return.
Maria’s kindness, generosity, and selfless love touched everyone who knew her. She will be remembered as a woman whose life was devoted to family, whose hands were always busy serving others, and whose heart was always full of love. She will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered forever.
The family will receive friends on Monday, January 26, 2026 from 4PM-8PM with a Saracusta service at 7PM at Buna Vestire Romanian Orthodox Cathedral, 7140 Fitch Rd., Olmsted Twp., Ohio 44138 where funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 10AM. Interment will follow at Woodvale Cemetery in Middleburg Heights, Ohio.
