Richard Herndon Dobson

Lakeland - Richard “Rick” Dobson was received into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, May 27, 2021, after a brief battle with cancer. He was a loving husband, exceptional father, and unforgettable grandfather and great-grandfather. His life was guided by the Christian principles he was taught as a child and it was reflected in his sense of justice, kindness, loyalty, and ability to help anyone who needed him. He served his country in the United States Navy and then served his community for 30 years with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. But, he wasn’t finished, so he then taught for seven years at Kathleen High School. Imparting knowledge was part of who he was and he did that whether he was working with young deputies, or young students trying to figure out which road to follow. He finished his working career at Florida Southern College in the Safety and Security area. He enjoyed being a grandfather figure to many of the students who called him “Mr. Richard”. He loved playing golf and his Tuesday night poker night. But, the highlight of his week were the philosophical discussions over coffee on Thursday mornings with his wife and our good friend Patricia. The most important thing in Richard’s life was his family and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of his life. He loved hearing them calling him “Papan” a name given to him by his oldest granddaughter. He was proud of his son Steve and his role as husband, father and grandfather. Richard was always there for his grandchildren no matter what request they might have. His legacy will live on in their lives and those whose lives he touched. Richard is survived by his wife of 54 years, Irene; son Steve and daughter-in-law Katherine; grandchildren, Elyse and Jay Dunkel, Alexandra and Colton Larson, Brooke Dobson and Konnor Dobson; great-grandchildren Andrew, Beckham, Harper, Maverick, Eleanor and Jordyn; and his siblings, Clark, Dwight, Margaret, James and John. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward Clark and Ruth Belle Dobson, and his brother Harold. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 18 at 11 a.m. at Resurrection Catholic Church, Terrace Way, Lakeland. In lieu of flowers, you may wish to make a donation to Heartland for Children, 1239 East Main Street, Bartow, FL 33830; or Kids Pack, 3725 Frontage Rd N #1, Lakeland, FL 33810.