John Harvey Dobbins Jr. “Big Harv”, 69 of Wake Forest, was promoted to heaven on Saturday, August 27th, with his loving wife and best friend of over 50 years, Donna, by his side.
He was preceded in death by his parents John Harvey Dobbins Sr. and Ethel Louise Dobbins, his sister Katherine Louise Dobbins Hayslett and his daughter Rebecca Ann Dobbins. He is survived by his wife of 50 years and high school sweetheart Donna Brisendine Dobbins, their daughters Jennifer Lea Smith (Matt) and Ashley Elizabeth Harding (David) and their son Jonathan David Dobbins (Chelsey). Their 9 grandchildren: Tyler, Ryan, Ella Grace, Landon, Harper, Bennett, Campbell, Naomi, Joelle, his brother Frankie Earl Dobbins (Patsy), and his sister Lydia Dobbins Nicely and a number of nieces and nephews.
John loved his Va.Tech Hokies, was an avid reader, sports fan and loved his 9 Grandchildren who all called him Gdaddy! He loved studying theology, so much so he got his Ph.D. in biblical studies, was always involved with his church and taught Sunday school for many years. John was always searching for the best in every circumstance, a man of unwavering faith strength and courage. He was a consistent presence in the lives of his wife, three children and nine grandchildren and was known for always having a “super day.”
A graveside service was held at Parklawn Memorial Gardens on Thursday, September 1st.