Emily Ann Kotora

The world became a little dimmer on June 21, 2026, when Emily Ann Kotora-beloved mother, daughter, sister, teacher, and friend-passed away peacefully at the age of 47. Born on May 10, 1979, in Sandusky, Ohio, Emily entered life with a gentle spirit and a heart already inclined toward caring for others. She was the cherished daughter of John and Teresa (Paulsen) Blodgett, who nurtured in her the values of compassion, curiosity, and faith that would guide her throughout her life.

From a young age, Emily listened deeply, loved wholeheartedly, and carried an unwavering belief in the goodness of others. These qualities blossomed into her lifelong calling to teach. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, and Master's Degree in Reading and Teaching from Lourdes College, Emily embarked on a career that would shape her students' academic paths.

Emily began her teaching journey at Our Lady of Lourdes, where her warmth and patience quickly became known among students and colleagues alike. She later continued her work at St. Benedict. She ultimately found her professional home with Maumee City Schools an English Language Learner-Tutor with the Middle and High Schools. Emily poured her heart into helping students discover their strengths. She believed every child was capable and deserved to be seen and valued, and she made it her mission to ensure they were. Her classroom was a place of encouragement, humor, and possibility-a place where students felt safe to experiment, grow, and to believe in themselves.

Emily's greatest devotion was her children. She was a proud and loving mother of five, each of whom she adored with a depth that shaped every part of her life. She was a sanctuary of warmth, enriching the lives of her children with the sound of laughter, the comfort of her cooking and the steady presence of a mother who loved without limits. Emily taught her children not only through words but through example: kindness in action, resilience in hardship, and joy in the everyday moments that make life meaningful.

Emily is survived by her loving children Evelyn, Ragan, Corrine, Vivian, and Benjamin Kotora; her devoted parents, John and Teresa (Paulsen) Blodgett, who remained her steadfast supporters; her brothers and sister-in-laws, Elliott (Nakita Ferrell) Blodgett and Ian (Nicole Svenson) Blodgett, with whom she welcomed as a part of her extended family and shared bonds of humor, loyalty, and affection. She treasured her niece and nephew, Dia Blodgett and Ellis Blodgett, whose visits brought her delight and whose milestones she celebrated with pride.

Those who knew Emily will remember her for her gentle strength, her quiet generosity, and her ability to make others feel valued. She had a gift of noticing the small things-an encouraging word, a thoughtful gesture, a moment of connection-and she offered these gifts freely. Her presence made life softer, kinder, and more hopeful for everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Family and friends are invited to honor Emily's life on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 2-6 p.m. at Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home, 501 Conant Street, Maumee, Ohio. A Vigil Service will be held at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue Monday, June 29, from 10-11 a.m. at St. John XXIII, 24250 N. Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, Ohio. Funeral mass will immediately follow at 11 a.m. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Emily Kotora Trust, ensuring that her legacy of love, learning, and generosity continues to support the people she cared for most - her children. Condolences may be made online to the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.

Emily's life was a testament to the quiet power of kindness and the lasting impact of a heart devoted to others. Though she is no longer with us, the lessons she taught, the love she gave, and the lives she touched will continue to shine brightly. Her story lives on in every student she encouraged, every colleague she supported, and every family member she cherished, and most of all, it lives on in her children, who carry forward her spirit with every step they take.