Cecil H. Dawkins IIBrandon, MSCecil Hugh Dawkins II of Brandon, MS, passed away on July 13, 2017, following a courageous battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. He was the beloved husband of 39 years to Ouida Smith Dawkins. Cecil was born on October 20, 1950, and grew up in Pearl, MS. Cecil is predeceased by parents Cecil Hugh Dawkins and Mary Annette Bain Dawkins. He is survived by spouse, Ouida Smith Dawkins; 2 children, Trey Dawkins and Laura McCarty, as well as son-in-law Brian McCarty; one sister, Sandy Norsworthy, and her husband Steve Norsworthy.Cecil was a talented musician who sang and played the guitar and bagpipes. A member of many different bands during his life, he loved playing music, reading, and his dog Jilly. After graduating from Pearl High School in 1968, Cecil was drafted to Vietnam before going on to spend his career as a well-respected professional land surveyor. A man of few words, Cecil was never short on wisdom, compassion, or patience. He was the first to stop and help a stranger and was the consummate husband, father, and friend. Cecil had a quick wit and will be dearly missed by so many who loved his company. During his battle with ALS, Cecil was lovingly cared for by his neurologist, Dr. Adele Thiel and staff members Lisa, Kay, and Angela, as well as Brandi Nickles of the MS-LA ALS Association. Visitation will be held at Ott & Lee Funeral Home on Saturday, July 15, 2017, from 4-7 p.m. at 1360 West Government Street, Brandon, MS. The service will be held on Sunday, July 16, 2017, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel at Ott & Lee Funeral Home with burial to follow at Floral Hills Memory Gardens in Pearl, MS.In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the ALS Association LA-MS Chapter at 11725 Industriplex Blvd., Suite 3, Baton Rouge, LA 70809-5190.