Mr. Robert Lee Dawkins, departed this life on Sunday August 27, 2023 in Evanston, IL. He was born December 8, 1937 in Winston-Salem, NC to the late Collins B. Pate and Louise Purry McGill. He was the second of seven siblings preceded in death by one sister, Helen Gardner and two brothers, Clarence McGill and Edward C. (Clara) Pate. He was also predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Lois Jean Dawkins; and two sons, Robert Dawkins, Jr. and Corey Bryant (Crystal) Dawkins.

Robert also referred to as "Baldy" or "Bob" completed his primary and secondary education in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System, where he graduated from Atkins High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Winston-Salem Teachers College presently Winston Salem State University. He also earned a Master of Science Degree education with a major in teaching educable mentally challenged students from Chicago State University. He did  graduate studies in administration and supervision at National Lewis University and post graduate studies at Northwestern University  in Evanston, Illinois.

His career in education began with the Chicago Board of Education and later with the Evanston School District 65, where he advanced to administration in the Elementary and Experimental Laboratory Schools. He advanced to the Evanston School District's central office to administration, where he worked with the superintendent, serving as a cabinet member.

After retirement in 1994, he and his wife returned to Winston-Salem, NC where he entered the Winston-Salem Forsyth County School System as a primary reading teacher, before moving to Huntsville, AL with his son Corey. After the death of his wife he moved back to Evanston, IL with his son Anthony (Amy).

Some of his professional activities included, president of Illinois State and National  Association of Pupil Services Administration and co-chair of Winston-Salem Forsyth County School's local school improvement team.

He was affiliated with organizations such as the American Association of School Superintendents, the National Association of Black School Educators and a lifetime member of the NAACP.

Robert received Christ at an early age at First Calvary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC, where he was an active member. After relocating to Evanston, Illinois, he was affiliated with Second Baptist Missionary Church where he served as Chairman of Deacons.

Robert was a strong family man who loved his family. His grandchildren brought him much joy.  He will be sorely missed by his family and friends and will be remembered for his famous words "are you kidding me," his love for singing , his infectious laugh and his love of sports.

He leaves to mourn his passing a devoted son and his spouse, Anthony(Amy) Dawkins of Evanston, Illinois; five grandchildren, Byron Dawkins, Trey Dawkins, Drew Dawkins, Zipporah Morrison and Jaden Hudson; three sisters, Hazel (John) Jackson, Nettie (Harold) Roberts, and Dorothy Robinson;  a devoted brother-in-law, James Easley; and a  host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at Piedmont Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.