Gary Leon Dawkins, 70, of South Pittsburg, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, November 10, 2021.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lula and Leon Dawkins.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jane Wilson Dawkins; son Tyler Dawkins (Mary Katherine), and one grandchild, Sophie.  He served as Deacon at the Kimball Church of Christ, a Rotarian, and a business owner.

Born January 9, 1951 in Bridgeport, Alabama, Gary graduated from Bridgeport High School and then attended Northeast Junior College before graduating from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in Political Science.  He went on to own and operate D&W Auto Part Store in Jasper, Tennessee for more than 30 years.

Gary was an avid reader who loved to learn.  From Jeopardy trivia to the Bible, Gary loved to seek knowledge and better himself.  Throughout his life he loved Alabama football and going to games which afforded him time with his wife and son while traveling to some of their favorite places.

He would often cook for groups of friends and his church family because he believed in the power of fellowship and loved eating interesting food.  Even when he lost the ability to travel himself, he had a great desire to help spread the Gospel through supporting mission efforts.  One of his few regrets was not being physically able to travel to Cuba to see the mission efforts there.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. (CST) at the Kimball Church of Christ, 830 Main St, Kimball, TN 37347 with Minister Billy Watkins officiating.

Interment will follow at Sequatchie Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2021 at the Kimball Church of Christ from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. (CST) prior to the church service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Cuban Ministries in care of Kimball Church of Christ

Arrangements are by Rogers Funeral Home, 400 Laurel Ave. South Pittsburg, TN (423) 837-7176.