Mr. Curtis Owen Dawkins' Obituary
Curtis “Cat Daddy” Dawkins, 73, of Alexander City, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2025, with love all around him.
Born May 2, 1952, in Sylacauga, Alabama, Curtis was a man who lived with intention. His personal motto, Live, Learn, and Leave a Legacy, guided how he moved through the world. And in the lives he touched, his legacy lives on.
Curtis had a zest for life. He was full of laughter, kindness, and a natural warmth that drew people to him. Whether cracking a well-timed joke, spinning a memory into a story worth retelling, or tipping his signature fedora with a knowing smile—he had a gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and at ease.
For more than two decades, Curtis worked as a butcher at Winn-Dixie, retiring in 2012. He always took time to make genuine connections and never let anyone leave without a smile.
He played music, coached girls’ softball, and found joy in encouraging others. He loved his garden and the simple pleasure of caring for it. He also loved to cook, especially his gameday meals and soul food Sunday dinners that brought everyone to the table.
He treasured family time, especially spontaneous road trips with his best friend and daughter, Natasha. Whether they were chasing sunsets, getting lost on back roads, or simply enjoying the ride, those shared adventures were some of his most memorable moments.
Curtis’s deep love for animals was most clearly seen in the way he cared for his beloved pups, Lucy Bean and Gracie Owen.
His deep faith guided him through life with gratitude and grace.
Curtis was a storyteller. His stories, told with humor, humility, and a touch of wisdom, created bridges between generations and left imprints on the hearts of all who listened.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. S.T. Dawkins and Mrs. Pauline Dawkins.
He is survived by his devoted daughter, Natasha Dawkins (Brooke), whose steady love and constant presence were his greatest comfort; his cherished soulmate, Susan Dawkins; his grandson, William Joseph Trout (Mary Kate), who carries his light forward; and his brothers, Stephen Dawkins (Wanda), Marlin Dawkins, and Jody Dawkins. The family also extends their deepest gratitude to Brandi Pratt, his caregiver and treasured friend, whose loyalty and compassion brought dignity and peace to his final chapter.
How fitting that this farewell falls on Father’s Day—
a day to celebrate the love, strength, and wisdom he gave so generously to all who knew him.
A celebration of life gathering filled with music and love, as Curtis requested, will be held at a later date.
Curtis lived with gratitude until the very end. His presence was a gift, his laughter contagious, and his love unwavering. To know him was to smile just a little more often.
Heaven didn’t just gain a soul—it gained a rare and radiant spirit.
Those wishing to honor Curtis’s memory are invited to support the Lake Martin Animal Shelter or the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
What’s your fondest memory of Curtis?
What’s a lesson you learned from Curtis?
Share a story where Curtis' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Curtis you’ll never forget.
How did Curtis make you smile?