Charles Fairly Dawkins passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024 at his Hattiesburg home with his family.

Charles was born on July 4th, 1936 in Harriston, MS to parents Charles Dawkins and Evelyn Payne Dawkins. Charles grew up in Fayette, MS and graduated from Fayette High School after which he attended University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, graduating with a bachelor's degree in journalism. He began his career working for newspapers in Fayette and Lucedale, then in 1965 began working as a college textbook sales representative with Ginn and Company then later with Scott Foresman and Company. Thirty-five years later, he retired from Harper Collins, Inc.

Charles married Della Davis in 1967 and moved with her to Hattiesburg. In Hattiesburg, Charles and Della raised 2 sons, Charles Davis and Stephen Fairly Dawkins. Charles enjoyed USM football, gardening, fishing, researching family history and Big Band Jazz. He was devoted to his wife Della, of 49 years and loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.

Charles is survived by his son, Charles Davis Dawkins, his wife, Christine Dawkins, their 3 children, Natalie, Cate and Chloe Dawkins and Fairly's daughter, Riley Dawkins. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Catherine Carraway. Charles was preceded in death by Della and Stephen Fairly Dawkins. His burial at Union Church Cemetery will be determined at a later date.