Leona Sokolis

Leona Mae Sokolis, 93, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, at her home in St. Charles, Missouri, which she shared with her beloved husband, Donald Henry Sokolis. Don celebrated his 94th birthday just two days before her passing.

Leona was the only daughter of the late Cleo and William Atchison. She married Donald, her childhood sweetheart, on January 27, 1952, in Springfield, Illinois, where they grew up together. Among her bridesmaids was Arlene (Sokolis) Ananias, with whom Leona had shared many happy years as a Girl Scout. Leona and Don built a beautiful life together spanning more than 74 years of marriage. Throughout their lives, they made their homes in Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri.

Leona began dancing at the age of three and remained an amazing dancer throughout her life. One of her favorite memories was dancing with Gene Kelly during a recital rehearsal. She and Don also shared a great love of classic movies and could readily name the films and the actors and actresses who appeared in them.

Leona worked for Swiss Bernina in Illinois for more than 20 years. Creative and talented, she loved sewing and making crafts. She delighted in decorating her home for every holiday and made each family birthday especially memorable by baking cakes from scratch using a treasured recipe passed down from her mother.

Above all, Leona loved her family. Staying connected, whether in person or through a telephone call, was deeply important to her. She wanted to know how everyone was doing and made certain those she loved knew how much they meant to her. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her life, and the traditions she created will remain cherished family memories.

Leona is survived by her devoted husband, Donald; her three children, Janet Lee Klotz, widow of James Klotz; Donna Mae Roach and her husband, David Roach; and William Henry Sokolis and his wife, Leslie Sokolis. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Jennifer Klotz, Matthew Klotz, Amanda Chase and her husband, Michael Chase, Ian Roach, Leah Roach, Hunter Sokolis, and Atchison Sokolis; as well as her nephew, Brion Emde, son of Arlene (Sokolis) Ananias and the late Noble Emde.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cleo and William Atchison; her son-in-law, James Klotz; and her beloved grandson, Henry Roach.

Leona’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life. As a member of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, she placed her trust in the promise that Jesus Christ is our Savior. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in His loving care.

Leona will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her beautiful dancing, her creativity, her steadfast faith, and the extraordinary love she gave to her family. Her life was a blessing, her memory will be treasured, and her love will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.