With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Henri Claire (Thomas) Dawkins, at the remarkable age of 100. Throughout her long and fulfilling life, Henri dedicated herself to serving others through countless hours of volunteering. During World War II, she was a member of the Civil Air Patrol, volunteering her time to watch our coastline. Later, she volunteered at Urban Ministries, Altrusa International, the Women's Center of Wake County, the Food Bank and the Wake County Historical Society. Her tireless efforts earned her the esteemed Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina's highest civilian honor, for her outstanding contributions to her community and for her work in the Historical Publications Section of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

A strong proponent of education, she graduated from Cary High School, attended Meredith College, graduated from Hardbarger's Business School, and continued lifelong learning classes at N.C. State into her early 90's.

Known for her kindness, compassion, and generosity, Henri touched the lives of everyone she met, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will be cherished by all who knew her. Her family and friends will deeply miss her warmth and guidance, but take comfort in the knowledge that her impact will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Henri is survived by two sons: George Michael Dawkins (Bonnie) and Thomas Paul Dawkins (Nancy), two granddaughters Amy Phelps and Lynn Stone (Jared), two great-granddaughters Alexis Phelps and Abigail Russell, and two great-grandsons Benjamin and Henry Stone.

She was predeceased by her parents Horace Carter Thomas and Halcie Raines Thomas, her brother H. C. Thomas, Jr. and sister-in-law Mary Riggan Thomas, sister-in-law Gerrie Atkinson, and brother-in-law Joseph Dawkins.

Henri attended Westover United Methodist Church and Hayes Barton Baptist Church. The family would like to thank church members, as well as Whitaker Glen friends for all their acts of kindness. A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 15 at 10 o'clock at Montlawn Cemetery, 2911 South Wilmington Street, Raleigh. Family will visit with friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to organizations Henri felt strongly about: the Women's Center of Wake County or the SPCA of Wake County.