Robert Dawkins, endearingly known as “Old Folks,” was celebrated on what would have been his 84th birthday with the unveiling of a plaque commemorating his contributions to the community Nov. 9 at the Charles Houston Recreation Center.

Dawkins was memorialized in the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame, an organization he founded in 2013 to preserve the history of African Americans in the city.

“We are honoring and celebrating the legacy of Mr. Robert ‘Old Folks’ Dawkins, our founder of the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame,” said Julian “Butch” Haley, the president of the organization. “He has done so much with the city, progressing it in terms of Black history. He loved the city, loved the community and we are honoring him and his legacy on his birthday.”

A reception and the unveiling of the Hall of Fame plaque was attended by local officials including Mayor-elect Alyia Gaskins and the Hon. Nolan Dawkins, brother to Robert Dawkins. Dawkins’ two sons were also in attendance.

“My father was a great trailblazer,” said Curtis Dawkins. “He set a lot of trends for a lot of people. He was a great helper for everybody.”

In addition to the African American Hall of Fame, Dawkins also established the Hoop Academy. This initiative demonstrated his belief in the power of sports to inspire and mentor the next generation. Through this foundation, he not only taught basketball skills but also instilled values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance that extended far beyond the court.

Dawkins died in November of 2023 at the age of 83.

The Memorial Unveiling Ceremony was presented in partnership with The Alexandria African American Hall of Fame, The Office of Historic Alexandria, and the Department of Recreation, Parks, & Cultural Activities. 

Dawkins’ eldest son Adrian Dawkins said simply, “Thank you Dad. Thank you for everything.”

For more information on the African American Hall of Fame, contact Julian Haley at 571-217-9951 or email aaahalloffame13@gmail.com.