Willie James Dinkins, Sr. passed suddenly on 8/27/2020 at the age of 73. He leaves behind his wife of 33 years, Margaret Travis-Dinkins, his sons, Willie James Jr (Amy), Travis Kendall (Yazmi), his two glorious granddaughters (Morgan Mary and Dylan Ann), his sisters (Della Dinkins and Tina Dessio), nieces and nephews, cousins, brothers and sisters-in-law , his posse (JoAnn, Ella, Daminga and James), and Mona.

Willie was born August 18, 1947 in Sumter, South Carolina. His mother Sadie Mae died, and he was raised by his grandmother (Marthenia Dinkins).

Growing up in the south during the civil rights movement, he was mentored by the late Frank Robertson, Sr. (field coordinator of CORE). He was extremely proud to talk about hisparticipation in protest demonstrations in Sumter, S.C. He was identified specifically by local police and KKK "for specialattention". He proudly reports he held the record for most arrests 1962-1965. One moment that stood in his memory was participating in a sit-in at the local S.H. Kress Drugstore when receiving news of President Kennedy's assassination. He remained a strong advocate for equal rights and respect.

His grandmother strongly encouraged him to enter the US Army at the age of 17 upon graduation from high school (1965). He served at various U.S. stateside facilities and completed two tours during the Vietnam War ('67-'68 and '70-'71) He remained in service for 11+ years, and held the rank SSG E-6upon discharge. He spent time as a drill sergeant, assigned to 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), and 75th Infantry Regiment (Ranger), 1 st Cav Div. While deployed during the Vietnam War he was part of the Combat Tracker - 557 th IPCT- 101 st Airborne Division.

After he left the army, Willie held numerous different positions, his dedication in caring for and helping others was demonstrated in his most favorite experience as an adolescent substance abuse counselor.  He was a lifetime member of the VFW, and the American Legion.

Willie touched many lives. He was very much present, even when he just sat in the corner reading his book. He enjoyed his sweets and coffee, traveling, singing, playing with his granddaughters and his family.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, 2020 from 4 to 7 PM at Allen Funeral Home, 1605 Main St. Pleasant Valley, NY 12569.

Due to Covid-19 wait times may be longer then usual.