Johnny Leroy Dawkins, Sr.

Loving Father and Hard Worker

Johnny Leroy Dawkins, Sr., born on January 30th, 1960, was quite the football legend back in his school days. Known as "Golden Toe," he had this uncanny ability to kick that football right over the goal post, across the street from our high school, and smack onto the middle school building, all while sporting his trusty square toe kicking shoe. Talk about skills!

But Johnny was more than just a football star; he was a hardworking dad who hustled to take care of his family. From long hours at Sealy Mattress to keeping the halls clean as a custodian at Lexington City Schools, he showed his children the meaning of a strong work ethic.

Johnny's dedication didn't stop at his job. He passed down that same grit and determination to his son, Johnny Leroy "Lee-Lee" Dawkins, Jr., and his daughter, Dia Dawkins Nyarko. And let me tell you, those lessons stuck.

On February 27, 2022, Johnny Leroy Dawkins, Sr. moved on to his new home in glory, leaving behind a ton of cherished memories. Dia Nyarko, his daughter, holds onto those memories of his love and fun times during childhood and the reminder to work hard and stay true to herself.

Johnny Leroy Dawkins, Sr. may have left us, but his spirit lives on through Dia and all those he touched. Here's to a football original with rare talent, a loving dad, and an inspiration in our lives.