Maria M. Cota, 66, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on May 9, 2021 at Buffalo General Hospital in Buffalo, NY.  Born in Teirceira, Azores, she was the daughter of the late Manuel and Maria (Denis) Airoso.

In July of 1975, Maria married Jose A. Cota in the Azores.  Shortly thereafter, they came to the United States, settling first in Massachusetts and later coming to the Niagara Falls area.  Maria was employed in Housekeeping at Niagara University.  She enjoyed sewing, knitting, and crocheting.  Above all, her family was the center of her life, and she especially cherished her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband of 45 years, Maria is survived by her sons, Tommy Cota and Michael (Cidalia) Cota; her grandchildren, Michael Cota, Eric Cota, and Andre Cota; her siblings, Rosa (Manuel) Ourique and Carlos (Fatima) Airoso, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 15 from 10 – 11:30 AM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304 where funeral services will begin at 11:30 followed by Maria's Mass of Christian Burial at St. Vincent DePaul Parish at St. Leo's Church, 2748 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  If lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate .  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.