Ernest L. Dobbins, Sr. is a retired employee of the United States Postal Service where he worked in Motor Vehicle Services for 20 years in Lexington.

He graduated from Burgin High School in Burgin and attended Sue Bennett Junior College in London. He first joined Swahili Elks Lodge #1611 in Lexington in 1974 and later became a member of Diamond Lodge 309 in Richmond.

He moved to Shackelford Lodge 66 in December 1995. He was elected the exalted ruler that year and is currently still serving in that capacity.

Dobbins is married to the former Ruthanne Kennedy and has six children: Roger, Ernest Jr., Xavier, Theresa, Brandon and Sara. Dobbins continues to serve in the Elks as a grand district deputy and grand lodge security.

Dobbins, also a veteran, served in the Vietnam era with the United States Army. Dobbins said he is proud to be part of the history of Shackelford Lodge and continues to work to move the lodge forward.