Remembering Maria Eleni Bochinis: A Vibrant Member of the Pensacola Community

Maria Eleni Bochinis, a cherished member of the Pensacola community, passed away on January 4, 2026, at Mount Sinai Morningside Medical Center. She was 47 years old and had been a resident of Pensacola since 2021.

Maria was born on October 16, 1978, in Manhattan, New York, to Nikidora and the late James Bochinis. She spent her early years in Elmhurst, Queens, before moving to Hopewell Junction, where she graduated from Arlington High School. There, she was involved in the marching band and crew team. She furthered her education at SUNY New Paltz, earning a degree in Business Management.

A member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Pensacola, Maria was also actively involved in the Pensacola Swing Dance Society and had previously participated in the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Danbury, Connecticut. She was passionate about dancing, especially West Coast Swing, and loved to share her enthusiasm for dance with others.

Maria was known for her love of animals, adopting several dogs throughout her life and caring for strays. Her kindness extended to everyone she met, often making friends by complimenting them. “Her kindness was what most attracted me to her,” said her boyfriend, Shawn Morrison, reflecting on her ability to connect with people.

Maria’s interests included the beach, skiing, swimming, and live music, and she was particularly fond of Egremni Beach in Lefkada, Greece. Her vibrant personality and unique style made her a well-loved figure in the local dance community, where she brightened the lives of those around her.

She is survived by her mother, Nikidora Bochinis; her brother, Dimitris Bochinis; her half-sister, Lauren Rodriguez; and several cousins and extended family members. She was predeceased by her father and several aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held on January 8 from 6-8 PM at McHoul Funeral Home in Hopewell Junction, with a Trisagion Service at 7 PM. A funeral service will take place on January 12 at 11 AM at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Pensacola, followed by burial at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to the ASPCA.