Maria was the third child of the East Frisian chieftain, Edo Wiemken the Younger of Jever (1454-1511), by his second wife, Countess Heilwig of Oldenburg (1473–1502).

However, the future counts Enno and John couldn't wait until the marriage and occupied Jever Castle in 1527, exposing her to severe humiliation.

The East Frisian Landdrost Boing of Oldersum, who was probably in love with Maria, drove the invaders out of Jeverland.

In 1531, in order to defend her rule against local rivals and enemies, Maria made the unusual decision of requesting assistance from Emperor Charles V, to assert her independence and secure her role against her neighbors.

In the subsequent years, Maria managed to defend her father's inheritance and gradually got a grip on the business of government.

She expanded her castle and enlarged her territory by creating new polders and locks, which allowed agriculture and commerce to flourish.

A servant is said to have secretly eaten the food so no suspicion would arise until Maria's rightful heir, Count John VII of Oldenburg, had arrived.