Dorothea Gardenia Cobbins

Dorothea Gardenia Cobbins was born December 28, 1923, to Rev. Sherman and Naomi Parks, in Madisonville, KY. Dorothea (Dottie) lived a life filled with love, faith, and adventure. Despite the challenges she faced along the way, she remained steadfast and determined to make the most of every opportunity that came her way.

After completing her education in Madisonville, Kentucky, Dottie set out to explore the bustling city of Chicago. Although her early years in the city were marked by various jobs, she eventually found stability and success at AT&T. Her 35-year career as an inspector allowed her to develop valuable skills and provided her with a comfortable life. Dottie’s dedication and hard work were evident in her achievements, and she retired with a sense of fulfillment and pride.

Throughout her life, Dottie found solace and strength in her faith. She accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized in her hometown of Madisonville, Kentucky. This spiritual foundation guided her through life’s ups and downs, giving her hope and a sense of purpose. When she moved to Chicago, she joined the United Methodist Church and continued to be an active member throughout her life.

Love found its way into Dottie’s life when she met and married Lawrence Ray Jenkins. Together, they welcomed a son Lawrence Edward Jenkins into their lives and embraced the joys and challenges of parenthood. Lawrence Edward Jenkins brought immeasurable happiness to Dottie’s life, and she cherished her summers and special times with her Grandson Lawrence Casey Jenkins.

In 1977, Dottie married James Cobbins, and their union brought even more joy and adventure. They discovered the beauty of Phoenix, Arizona during their travels and decided to make it their home in 1981. Mesa’s vibrant climate and friendly community captivated them, and they settled there with open hearts and open minds.

She leaves to mourn her passing, a devoted daughter-in-law, Lois Jenkins of Texas; grandson Lawrence Casey Jenkins; nephew Hershel Cox of Chicago, Ill; great nephews Abraham Cox of Los Angeles, CA, and Samuel Cox, Mesa, AZ, and a host of other relatives in California, Chicago, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Dottie’s involvement in her new community was evident through her active participation in St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church and later in Holy Trinity Community AME Church where she served as a Stewart. In that capacity, she alerted the church that a building on Chestnut was for sale. The Paster Melvyn Payne and the Stewart Board agreed the purchase the building and convert it into the permanent home for Holy Trinity Community AME Church, on June 1, 2001.  The realtors Frank and Carmen Draper attended the church for many years.

While Dottie excelled in her professional and personal life, she also knew the importance of enjoying life’s pleasures. She had a zest for socializing and loved connecting with others. Whether it was a gathering with friends, a family get-together, or a community event, Dottie’s infectious laughter and warm spirit always brightened the room.

Her adventurous spirit also led her to travel, exploring new places and creating lasting memories. With every journey, she embraced the opportunity to learn.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.