Ben Dawkins, Jr.

Ben Dawkins, Jr., was born in Blanton, AL., on March 17, 1944.  He spent his formative and childhood years in Columbus, GA. After graduating from high school, Ben entered into the United States Air Force and served his country for eight years at various bases in Europe and the United States.  After being honorably discharged from the Armed Forces, Ben settled with his family in Detroit, MI, where he met his loving future wife, Sharon. 

Ben worked for the Chrysler Corp until 1974, when he moved his family to Groton, CT., In Connecticut, Ben found employment with the General Dynamics Corp., Electric Boat Division where he worked for 3.5 years before moving on to a better opportunity as a Customer Service Engineer at IBM Corp.  He retired from IBM in 2007 after 29 years of service.  Ben enjoyed his retirement with frequently taken trips abroad and annual excursions to Martha’s Vineyard on Cape Cod with friends, and to Detroit, MI. to visit family.  Ben was an avid golfer and bowler and an exceptional all-around athlete. 

Ben departed this life to be with his Heavenly Father on October 12, 2021 at Midstate Medical Center, in Meriden, CT.  He leaves behind his devoted wife, Sharon of nearly 45 years, sons, Christopher, and Shawn; two sisters, Juanita and Brenda (Waymond), five (5) brothers, Russell (Fern), Lonnie (Cynthia), Arthur (Maridee), Toni (Violet), and Donald (Lorrie); and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Ben will be missed and lovingly remembered.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Luddy – Peterson Funeral Home, 205 S. Main Street, New Britain, CT. 06051.  A Memorial Service honoring Ben’s life will be held at a later date in Michigan.