Columbus "Joe" Phelma Dobbins

He was born in Rutherford County on June 19, 1921 to a farmer and his wife. He grew up on the farm and served in the US Army as an M.P. during World War II stationed in the Ukon Territory. He was totally enamored with his bride to be when they met in 1941 on a blind date and married 18 months later.

Joe owned an insurance company, O’Donnell, Lefort, Dobbins in Raleigh and even after his retirement in 1986, he prided himself in continuing to work part time until his declining health in 2009. Other than his family his primary love was golf and he was a charter member of North Ridge Country Club. He enjoyed the fellowship of his buddies regardless of the weather or how well he played.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Teresa Dobbins Crotts. Surviving family members are his wife of 69 years, Velma, 3 children Vaneda Hess and husband, Don, of Raleigh, Steve Dobbins and wife Lynda of Charlotte, and Jo Mangum and husband, Tom, of Raleigh and son-in-law Bud Crotts of Ellenboro, NC. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at Millbrook United Methodist Church, 1713 E. Millbrook Road, Raleigh, NC 27609. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church. A graveside service will be held 2:00 pm Thursday, January 27, 2011 at Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Millbrook Methodist Church, Raleigh, NC. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff of Sunrise Assisted Living of North Hills and Wake County Hospice.

Condolences may be sent to www.BrownWynne.com