Rufus Augustus Dobbins

Rufus Augustus Dobbins peacefully departed this life on Sunday, October 11th, at Wilkes Health and Rehabilitation Center. 

He was born October 15th,1930 in Wilkes Country to Lois and Leonard Dobbins. After high school, Rufus enlisted in the United States Army. We are thankful for his years of service to our country, including overseas combat during the Korean War.  

Rufus’ strong sense of dedication continued as he worked as a long-haul driver for Carolina Mirror Company for thirty-seven years. These years afforded him the opportunity to travel to forty-eight states across the country, an accomplishment that he shared with friends and family.

In November of 1964, he married the love of his life, Fletis “Joretta” Brown. Rufus and Joretta made a home in Roaring River, where they raised their family and created a lifetime of memories. 

Known for his love of adventure on land and water, Rufus could be found on his motorcycle, big rig, vintage car, or boat. He even took flying lessons, advancing to solo flight and giving serious thought to seeking a professional pilot’s license. When home, he enjoyed farming, gardening, and working around the house. Rufus was also a sports enthusiast who spent a lot of time at local high school football and basketball games. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Rufus leaves to cherish his memory three children: Kelly [Eric] Register of Mableton, Georgia, William [Deanna] of Harrisburg, North Carolina, and Renee Dowell of Highlands, North Carolina. He leaves four precious grandchildren: Ashelyn, Louis, Kaylee, and William Christopher. He also leaves two nieces, Carla [Brian] Daves of Charlotte, Valerie Dees of Washington, DC and a nephew Mitchel El-Mahdy of Palm Springs, California.

Preceding him in death are his wife, parents, and sister, Marie.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Linda Howell of Home Instead, his dedicated caregiver over the last few years. Gratitude and appreciation are also extended to the caring staff at Rose Glen Manor and Wilkes Health and Rehabilitation Center.

A graveside Veteran Memorial Service will take place Saturday, October 17th, at 2:00 p.m. at Mountain Valley Missionary Baptist Church (118 Plum Ridge Road, Ronda, NC) with Pastor Casey Walker officiating. Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to the Rose Glenn Manor activity fund: 240 S. Independence Avenue, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659. 

Online condolences may be made at www.reinssturdivant.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rufus Augustus Dobbins, please visit our floral store.