Bubbly, warm, unforgettable best friend
With a smile that lit up the room and irresistible, infectious laughter, Adri Awes was pure love in human form. Encouraging and welcoming, she befriended those around her with ease, coaxing out the best traits in them. The song of her soul often emerged on car rides with her best friend Angela or on nights full of live music, showing off her good energy and fun-loving spirit. Though busy from day to day, Adri prioritized quality time with those most important to her, whether it was on holidays, birthdays, or for a meal and catch-up chat. Angela’s children, Lilah and Oliver, became two of Adri’s favorite people, and she was overjoyed to become Lilah’s godmother. Adri’s sister Marina, her brother Aris, her parents, and her Pappou formed her closest bonds, along with chosen family in the form of friends and workmates.
Though every day was a chance to celebrate Adri’s joy, standout memories include birthday and Christmas celebrations. She loved a good time, no matter what was happening. As the natural center of attention, she delighted in being surrounded by her inner circle as gifts were given and songs were sung. In possession of such a giving spirit, she was always willing to lend a hand to anyone. The sales and serving positions she worked put her outgoing nature and desire to assist on full display. Friends were supportive and reassuring as she pursued recovery, happy to show her the same brightness and optimism she so readily gave them.
Living in the moment, with sympathetic and compassionate care for others, Adri was in decision about her future path, though she knew she wanted to continue dedicating herself to serving others. Adri experienced deeply personal battles, adding grief to the struggle of daily life, though she fought to keep a smile on her and everyone else’s faces. Empathetic to the pain of others, she focused outside and muted her own struggles. Angela conveys the concern she had for her best friend by saying, “[I was] always wondering if she was okay… it was an up and down rollercoaster for her.” Early in 2021, Adri’s song ended before its refrain.
To honor Adri’s passing, Angela became the safe space that her friend once was to those experiencing substance use disorder. Flowers are left on Adri’s grave on the holidays they once celebrated together. Heartache persists as the opportunities to catch up with her best friend, and to delight in music and shared laughter, no longer happen. The stage lights dimmed on the day Adri was lost, but the song plays on in the memories of those she irrevocably touched.
Adrianna’s best friend, Angela Johnson, provided the information for this narrative.
August 18, 1993-January 8, 2021-Age 27
Portrait Artist: Carol Meckling
Narrative Writer: Jill Denton
