Mark Lee Cooksey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the age of 72 surrounded by loved ones. He was selflessly and lovingly cared for in his final years by his devoted wife and daughter, along with a compassionate care team.

Mark was born on July 7, 1952, in Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, to Alvin and Faye Cooksey. He was raised in Grainfield, Kansas, where he first met the love of his life and wife of 51 years, Bonnie, and developed a lifelong love for music and learning—passions that would shape the course of his life and career. He attended Fort Hays State, earning a degree in Music Education; later pursuing further education, obtaining his Master's and Doctorate degrees in Counseling and Psychology.

A devoted educator, Mark dedicated over 30 years to teaching music in Bailey, Colorado, inspiring countless students with his talent and patience. Later in life, he merged his deep compassion for others and his mission to further the kingdom of God, serving as a psychology professor at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. His career there was deeply rooted in Christian foundations, allowing him to deeply impact his students with utmost sincerity.

Mark was a man of many gifts—musician, teacher, mentor, and entrepreneur—but above all, he was a loving and devoted family man who instilled a lasting foundation of biblical truths that has continued to be built upon through generations. His life was marked by a genuine love and care for others, intellect, and never missing a moment to brighten someone’s day with an unexpected joke or an encouraging compliment.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Faye Cooksey, and his grandson, Gentry Cooksey. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Cooksey; his children, Heather (Matthew) Griffith, Scott (Jaime) Cooksey, and Brittany (Quintin) Zuber; and his cherished grandchildren: Alaina and Easton Cooksey, and Aeden and Lochlan Griffith.

A funeral service honoring Mark's life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Hafer Funeral Home in Elkview, West Virginia, preceded by a public viewing at 12:30 p.m. and followed by a graveside committal service. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate a life well-lived.

Mark Lee Cooksey will be remembered for his unwavering love, remarkable ability to connect with others through his lighthearted spirit, and the profound Christian foundation he built for his loved ones. He will be dearly missed but we celebrate in his now eternal state of ultimate peace and joy with his Savior Jesus Christ.

Online condolences may be sent to haferfuneralhome.net

Arrangements are in the care of Hafer Funeral Home, 50 North Pinch Road, Elkview.