Bonnie Cokinos

1934 - 2016 Bonnie Marie Cokinos, 82, of Beaumont, died Tuesday, September 27, 2016, in her home. She was born on January 27, 1934, in Beaumont, to Mildred Boden Sohlinger and Barney Richard Sohlinger, and was a lifetime resident of the area. Bonnie was the founder of The Bonnie Cokinos School of Dance in 1973. As a dance instructor, she profoundly influenced generations of young girls and boys who were drawn to her graceful, disciplined, and refined disposition. She inspired her students to achieve their dreams, and had a gift for bringing out the best in others. Miss Bonnie truly loved managing, teaching, directing, and all that goes into the life of a dance teacher. She is survived by her son, Andre Cokinos and wife, Liz, of Beaumont; daughter, Stacie Cokinos and partner, Pamela Radford, of Houston; and grandchildren, Grace Elizabeth Cokinos and Christopher Andre Cokinos. Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents; and beloved husband of fifty three years, Jimmie P. Cokinos. A gathering of Mrs. Cokinos' family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Christian Vigil at 6:00 p.m., on Friday, September 30, 2016, at Broussard's, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 1, 2016, at St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica, 700 Jefferson Street, Beaumont. Memorial Contributions may be made to Beaumont Ballet Theatre, 4555 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77706. Complete and updated information may be found at: broussards1889.com.