Randall Dobbs

Randall F. Dobbs of Tucker, Georgia, passed away on November 4 at age 73, surrounded by his friends and family. Randy was born in Atlanta on October 31, 1951 to Franklin and Bernice (Harrison) Dobbs, and was the oldest of three children.

Education was a cornerstone of Randy's life, both personally and professionally. Preparation for his meaningful career path included a bachelor's degree from Carson-Newman University, a master's degree from Emory University, and a doctorate degree from Vanderbilt University. At Emory, Randy was selected to serve as an officer of the alumni association. He was a life-long learner with an innate interest in the world and others.

Randy brought boldness, intelligence, and creativity to his professional life. He offered new approaches to learning as he taught students and then led entire schools at Fairington and Idlewood as their principal. He designed new programs and approaches while maintaining tough federal mandates as he worked as a lead teacher, head of Metro East GLRS, and Director of Special Education for DeKalb County Schools.

Randy expanded his role as leader and extended his circle of service to include the larger community when he became Executive Director of the Justice Center of Atlanta. At Georgia State University he served on the faculty and directed the Principals Center. His final contribution to his field was with GLSI, a state school improvement initiative.

Hobbies and community service complemented Randy's work life. He coached in a softball league; he served on the board of Decatur Cooperative Ministry; he sang in the choir at several churches, sometimes as a soloist; he played piano; he enjoyed writing; he golfed, scuba dived, and snow skied; he was a world explorer; he loved the newest technology. Friday nights were spent at his beloved Colonnade Restaurant, where he was even featured in the menu. One of Randy's favorite volunteer positions in recent years was that of chef for Columbia Presbyterian's Welcome Table meals. Wherever he worked or played or served or sang, Randy offered good cheer and high energy. His ways were as special as his titles and accomplishments. His sense of humor, charm, and caring heart enveloped everyone he knew.

Randy met his partner, Doug, on a cruise, one of his favorite pastimes. Together with Maggie, their sweet pup, they enjoyed 10 years creating a beautiful home and being the loves of each other's lives.

Randy is survived by his partner, Doug Choma; his "bonus mom," Ann Dobbs; his sisters Pam Bradford (Kevin) and Lisa Hay (Eddie); his 5 nieces and nephews; and 8 great nieces and nephews. He leaves his family, friends, and colleagues with the warmest, sweetest, larger-than-life space in their hearts.

Visitation will be held at A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home (2773 N Decatur Rd, Decatur, GA) on Thursday, November 7 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral service will be held at Columbia Presbyterian Church (711 S Columbia Dr, Decatur, GA) on Friday, November 8 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Randy Dobbs to Columbia Presbyterian Church (711 S Columbia Dr, Decatur, GA 30030) or Decatur Cooperative Ministry (DCM, P.O. Box 457, Decatur, GA 30031).