Hobson City, AL – A headstone dedication ceremony honoring the life, military service, and community contributions of Private First Class Maynard Eugene Dobbins will be held Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Hobson City Memorial Gardens.
The ceremony, hosted by The Southern Sons of Liberty Inc., will recognize Dobbins, a Korean War veteran who served in the United States Army’s historic 24th Infantry Regiment, a unit associated with the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers. Dobbins received two Purple Hearts during his military service.
Born May 26, 1932, Dobbins enlisted in the United States Army in 1950 at the age of 17. He served during the Korean War and remained in military service until 1953.
Following his military career, Dobbins became a businessman and community advocate. He owned and operated Quid Pro Quo Barbershop from 1974 until 2004. In addition to his business activities, he supported affordable housing initiatives and charitable organizations.
In 2006 and 2007, Dobbins received recognition for his fundraising efforts benefiting individuals affected by sickle cell disease. He was also active in his church, serving as a deacon, and was a father and grandfather. Dobbins died January 27, 2009.
The October 31 dedication will include remarks from community and organizational representatives, musical selections, the unveiling of a headstone, and military honors.
Tim Steadman, founder and director emeritus of The Southern Sons of Liberty, will deliver the opening welcome. Hobson City Mayor Rev. Alberta McCrory will lead the opening prayer and provide remarks.
Bertha Miller will present a musical selection, followed by the dedication and unveiling of the headstone by Zachary C. Grizzard, executive director of The Southern Sons of Liberty Inc.
Rev. Dr. Freddy V. Rimpsey will offer words of encouragement during the program.
United States Army personnel will conduct military honors, including a ceremonial rifle volley and the playing of Taps. The ceremony will also feature the folding and presentation of the American flag to Dobbins’ daughter, Brandie Dobbins.
Anniston Memorial Funeral Home is coordinating the military honors and providing the burial flag. Mayor McCrory and the Town of Hobson City are also supporting the dedication.
The ceremony will conclude with a benediction delivered by Rev. McCrory.
Following the dedication, attendees are invited to join the Dobbins family for a fellowship gathering and meal at the William Hutchings Center, located at 715 Martin Luther King Drive in Hobson City, AL 36201.
The event will recognize Dobbins’ military service, including his two Purple Hearts, as well as his contributions to business, charitable efforts, and community life in the years following his military career.
