Robert Dawkins
July 14, 1938 - March 10, 2026
Wake Forest, North Carolina - Robert George Dawkins, known affectionately as Bob to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on July 14, 1938, to John and Agnes Dawkins, Bob was a beacon of kindness and passion throughout his life, touching the hearts of those around him with his thoughtful nature.
Bob graduated from Kingston Senior High School in 1955, where he laid the foundation for a lifetime of achievements, including his time serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. His career spanned over 50 years as a dedicated life insurance agent with Prudential, where he was known for his unwavering commitment to his clients and colleagues. Bob's work ethic and integrity in his profession were matched only by his deep faith and participation in St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Wake Forest. Bob valued the blessings in his life and showed everyone around him how to do this as well.
Bob's love for sports was a lifelong affair. He was a passionate supporter of the New York Yankees and New York Giants, reveling in their victories and standing by them through thick and thin. His enthusiasm for college basketball was just as fervent, often engaging in friendly debates and discussions about the latest games and teams. Bob also found joy and relaxation on the golf course, where he played with the same integrity and sportsmanship that he carried throughout all aspects of his life.
In his personal life, Bob was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Joanne Carol Dawkins. Together, they shared a love that was evident to all who knew them. Bob's legacy of love and kindness continues through his family, including his cherished nephews and nieces, Cindy Rains, Todd Shail, Scott Shail, Tim Shail, Matt Delaney, Tim Delaney, Mike Delaney, Jon Delaney, and Kimberly Dawkins, as well as his grand nieces and nephews, Katelyn, Alexis, Joseph, Zackary, McKenzie, Michaela, Finian, Aubrey, Anna, Connor, Caitlyn, Kara, Brianna, Courtney, Charlie, Audrey, and Owen who will miss him dearly.
Through marriage to Joanne, Bob's family extended to his brothers-in-law, Richard and Chris, and sisters-in-law, Kathleen and Jacquelyn.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, John and Agnes Dawkins, and his brothers, Jack and Richard Dawkins, and his nephew Kenneth Dawkins.
Bob Dawkins was the epitome of a life well-lived. His kind and thoughtful nature, combined with his passion for his interests and his work, made him a remarkable individual. Those who had the pleasure of knowing Bob will forever carry the memory of his warm spirit and the impact he had on their lives.
As we bid farewell to Robert George Dawkins, we celebrate the life of a man who was not only cherished by his family but also respected by his peers and loved by his friends. His was a life that truly made a difference, and he will be deeply missed.
A funeral mass will be held at 2 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026 at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 520 W. Holding Ave., Wake Forest, NC 27587. Burial will follow in the church memorial garden.
Please visit
www.brightfunerals.com to share words of comfort to the family.
Bright Funeral Home is serving the Dawkins family.

Published by The News & Observer from Mar. 16 to Mar. 22, 2026.