Charlene Dianne Coco

Charlene Dianne Coco would like you to know that her work here is done. She prayed that God's will be done and, on September 7, 2021 in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, He peacefully called her home. She joins many beloved family and friends in heaven. Charlene approached cancer as she did all things in life - with humor, courage, grace, tenacity, faith, science, determination, prayer…and more laughter. We toast to Charlene with love: no more pain, only champagne! Charlene was born in 1943 in Marksville, LA surrounded by family who were deeply proud of their Native American and Cajun heritage. She graduated from LSU's nursing school and later also completed graduate training to become a Nurse Practitioner. As a faculty member at LSU's School of Nursing, she taught her students both the science and art of nursing while being recognized as a "Great 100 Nurse". As a clinician at Lakeside Hospital, she joyfully welcomed many newborn babies into this world. Charlene was an avid fisherman, gifted cook, dedicated gardener, welcoming Bed and Breakfast host, and cherished friend to all. She knew no stranger. Charlene is survived by her spouse, Ragan Kimbrell. They met in 1979 and would spend the rest of their years together. She is also survived by her son, Winston Wood (Teri Salberg), brother Charles Coco (Faye Ann), many nephews, nieces, and cousins, as well as her beloved dogs, Gracie and Noah. In the midst of complications from Hurricane Ida, a small celebration of Charlene's life was held in New Orleans on October 3, 2021. Please consider a gift to her favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, in her memory.