Roll Call Tribute

Obituary sent by nephew.

James Wesley Dobbyn passed away on March 28, 2018, at his home in Alexandria, Alabama.

Jim was born on September 20, 1929, in St. Paul, Minnesota to Lillian and Harry Dobbyn. He moved to Enid, Oklahoma in junior high with the family, and finally to Abilene during his freshman year in high school, enrolling at Abilene High.

He graduated from Abilene High School, Abilene, Texas in 1947, where he was a star running back for the Abilene Eagles. He attended Texas A&M University on a football scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1952, specializing in Poultry Husbandry. He was in the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets in college and upon graduation, he received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the US Air Force, where he served as a flight instructor. He completed his military obligation and was honorably discharged in 1954.

After his military service, he joined Power Feed Mills as its Vice President of Operations where he was in charge of its poultry and egg production division until l965, at which time he began earning his MBA at Abilene Christian University, graduating in l967. Upon graduation, he joined Tyson Foods and was placed in charge of its poultry division where he remained until his retirement in l995.

After retirement, Jim enjoyed his first love of playing duplicate bridge and became very well known in the duplicate bridge circles in Texas, in Alabama, and throughout the United States. He was a member of the American Contract Bridge League, where he was a Sapphire Life Master, and instructed duplicate bridge newcomers. He was active in the ACBL organization and was always willing to lend a hand when others needed it. He was active in tournaments and played in local, regional and national events.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Lillian Dobbyn, three sisters, Carol Morgan Smith, Margaret Dobbyn and Edithe Dobbyn Easter, and his wife Jacqueline. He is survived by many loving nieces and nephews, his stepson, Philip, and two granddaughters, Kathleen and Susan. We will always remember his natural charm and warm sense of humor, and his playful attitude around his friends and family. He brought a quick wit to almost all situations, loved fast cars (and cards), was deadly accurate with his putter on any green, and he cared deeply and earnestly for the women in his life. God speed, Uncle Jimmy. We look forward to the day when we will meet you again. Happy Trails to you!