Major Egbert Nathaniel Dawkins Jr
November 30, 1950 - August 17, 2024
Honoring the life and legacy of a dedicated husband, father, brother, and Marine.
Obituary
Major Egbert Nathaniel Dawkins II, affectionately known as The Major, was a distinguished veteran of the United States Marine Corps and a cherished community leader who dedicated his life to service, passion, and excellence. Born on November 30, 1950, in Panama City, Panama, Egbert was one of 14 children and grew up in a large, loving family. Throughout his life, Egbert exemplified the values of hard work, dedication, and community service. After moving to the United States, he enlisted in the Marine Corps, beginning a remarkable 30-year military career. Known for his generosity and deep religious faith, The Major was a proud member of several community organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion, the Freemasons, the Elks Lodge, the Shriners, and the Community Oriented Policing Service (COPS). He consistently gave to charitable organizations, reflecting his commitment to helping others and supporting his community in every way possible.
Egbert, lovingly known by his family as Junie or Junior, will be deeply missed but never forgotten by those who knew him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carola, who retired from the California Superior Court in 2005, and his three accomplished children: Indhira, who holds a law degree from Trinity International and is studying for her PhD; Egbert Nathaniel III, a Grammy-nominated recording artist known professionally as Aloe Blacc; and Kedra, a production designer and art director known for her work on “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and Beyoncé’s “Renaissance.” In addition to his children he is survived by his grandchildren Shania, Izeah Gabriela, Mandela, and Satya as well as his sisters Marva, Gloria, Yvonne, Perla, and his brother Ricardo, countless nieces, nephews, and godchildren. Egbert will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, with services to celebrate his life held in Miami, Florida, and Riverside, California. His legacy of service, love, generosity, faith, laughter, and his extraordinary memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and loved ones.
More About The Major
Early Life and Education
Growing up in a large, loving family, he learned early on the importance of community and service. Before moving to the United States, Egbert worked as a plumber, taught English as a professor, served as a Boy Scout leader, and served as a volunteer firefighter in Panama, roles that showcased his commitment to helping others and laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service. After retiring from the Marine Corps, The Major continued his pursuit of education, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Park University, further demonstrating his passion for lifelong learning and understanding the human mind.
Military Career
As a marine, Egbert quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication and skill, achieving the rare distinction of becoming a Mustang officer—an enlisted service member who earns a commission as an officer. His leadership and innovation earned him numerous accolades, including the Meritorious Service Medal awarded by the President of the United States. Egbert’s contributions to the Marine Corps were invaluable. His military career was marked by a commitment to excellence and a deep sense of duty and honor.
In lieu of flowers
In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that you consider a donation to The Major's charity of choice, The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), in his honor. Your generosity will help the VFW continue its important work supporting veterans and their families.
If you'd like to send a card, our mailing address is:The Dawkins Family
10960 WILSHIRE BLVD 5TH FLOOR
LOS ANGELES, CA 90024
Photo Gallery
Shared photos from the guestbook will be added here
A Dedicated Marine
The Major devoted his life to serving his country.
Family Moments
He cherished the time he spent with his loved ones.
Upcoming Memorial Services
1
Memorial With Elks Ceremony
Sunday September 8, 2024
2:00pm - 4:00 p.m.
Elks Lodge 948 Miami Fl
2
Memorial With Masons Ceremony
Friday October 11, 2024
2:15 pm (ceremony promptly at 2:45 pm)
Riverside National Cemetery
Repass immediately following at:Hampton Inn & Suites Moreno Valley12611 Memorial Way, Moreno Valley, Ca
3
Burial with Honor Guard
Monday December 9, 2024
11:00 am (ceremony promptly at 12pm)
Arlington National Cemetery, VA
Thank You
The Dawkins Family would like to express our sincere gratitude for your support and kindness during this difficult time. Your heartfelt messages, memories, and condolences have brought us great comfort.
We are deeply touched by your generosity and the outpouring of love for The Major.
Please let us know if you plan to attend any of The Major's upcoming memorial services so that we may accommodate your attendance. We honor and appreciate all who wish to say goodbye to a man who cherished the time he spent with his loved ones.