Irma Love Dobbins

Irma Jean Love Dobbins, a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, entered eternal rest on November 6, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on October 12, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Irma was the cherished youngest of five children born to Eugene Love and Mary Jane Griffin. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings — JaRutha Shelton, Eugene Love, Bernard Love, and Dorothy Price — all of whom she lovingly remembered throughout her life.

Raised in Chicago, Irma attended St. Joseph School and Hyde Park High School. She went on to pursue higher education at Southern Illinois University and Tennessee State University, where she earned a degree in Education. A proud member of the sisterhood of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, Irma dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds. She inspired generations of students with her insight, discipline, and compassion. Her distinguished career culminated in her role as Director of Minority Affairs at the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she served until her retirement. Her colleagues and students alike remember her as precise, poised, and deeply committed to excellence.

Irma was united in marriage to her devoted husband, Dorian Quinely Dobbins, on April 19, 1966. He preceded her in death. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children: Marc Bradford Dobbins (Lalita Branch) and Dr. Tiffani Kymbrel Dobbins Johnson (Dr. Keith Johnson). Irma took immeasurable pride in her six grandchildren, whose college degrees and pursuit of advanced studies reflect her enduring legacy as an educator: Nathaniel Karrington Dobbins, Niah Krystal Dobbins, Kameron Brooke Johnson, Alexx Simone Johnson, London Synclair Johnson, and Harper Keith Johnson.

She is also remembered with love by her niece Mauriann Woods, her sister Ramella Love, her brothers-in-law Ronald Dobbins (Jean Dobbins) and Nathan Dobbins, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Those who knew Irma would describe her as the embodiment of grace and strength — a woman of vision, perseverance, and unwavering faith. Her elegance and intelligence shone through everything she did, whether teaching, mentoring, or performing music. A gifted pianist and singer, a skilled writer and speaker, and a self-taught seamstress, Irma’s spirit of creativity and excellence knew no bounds. Her timeless sense of beauty and style reflected the care, pride, and intention with which she lived each day.

To her family, Irma was the heart, the foundation, and the guiding light. She believed deeply in the power, worth, and potential of those she loved, often reminding them, “You are capable, strong, and worthy.” Her encouragement was constant, her love unconditional, and her protection fierce. To be loved by her was to feel safe, seen, and treasured.

Even as dementia began to touch her later years, Irma’s resilience, humor, and warmth continued to shine. Her daughter lovingly cared for her during that time, honoring the circle of care that had always defined their bond — the same tenderness a mother once showed her child, returned in kind.

As one who lived with emotional depth and authenticity, Irma embodied the truth that a meaningful life is not defined by unbroken happiness, but by the fullness of feeling — joy, pride, sorrow, and gratitude alike. Her life was indeed profoundly full, and profoundly human.

Irma Jean Love Dobbins lived a great life — rich in faith, in love, and in purpose. Her legacy will continue to echo in every heart she touched and every life she shaped.

Rest peacefully now, Mom. You gave us everything — your strength, your love, and your light. We love you, and we will carry you in our hearts forever.