Donald “Don” Martin Dawkins, 84, passed away May 26, 2023 in Pinehurst, North Carolina.
Don was the son of the late Myrtle and Dennis Dawkins and born June 28, 1938.
Along with his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Settle Dawkins; and siblings Ben Dawkins, Martha McNeill and Bessie Vestal.
Don was born and raised in Rockingham, North Carolina, and graduated from Rockingham High School in 1956. Don would continue his academic career by graduating from North Carolina State University in 1960 where he joined and participated in the college’s ROTC program. Following graduation, Don enlisted in the United States Army July 3, 1960 as a second lieutenant.
While in the military, Don served two tours to Vietnam as a combat helicopter pilot with the 114th Aviation Company. His first tour to Vietnam went on from May 5, 1963 to May 21, 1964. His second tour he served from July 7, 1967 to July 1, 1968.
During his career, Don garnered several accolades. The medals Don earned include: the National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Bronze Star Medal (1 oak leaf cluster); Army Commendation Medal; Distinguished Flying Cross (1 OLC);Vietnam Cross of Gallantry; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Army Aviator Badge and the Air Medal (16 OLCs). Don was honorably discharged in 1971 as a major.
Following his military career, Don would go on to graduate from St. Mary’s University School of Law and serve as an attorney in Rockingham, North Carolina, for many years. Don also served as minister at Tabernacle United Methodist Church and West Rockingham United Church and served as a North Carolina State House Representative for eight years.
Don is survived by his sister, Jean Sandberg (Wayne); brothers Douglas Dawkins (Merrie) and Roger Dawkins (Kim). Don also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. June 1 at West Rockingham United Methodist Church with funeral services to immediately follow with the Rev. Paul Haber officiating. Committal will take place at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery after the funeral where military honors will be presented.
In addition to flowers, memorial donations can be made out to West Rockingham Methodist Church at 217 W US HWY 74 E, Rockingham, North Carolina.
Online condolences can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is assisting the Dawkins family.
