Henry Albert Perkins, age 80, of Pequot Avenue, Mystic, died Monday morning at his home.
A lifelong resident of the area, he was born December 14, 1922 the son of Frank and Minnie M. (Gohlert) Perkins. He was educated in the Stonington School system and was a 1940 graduate of Stonington High School where he was voted class poet.
During World War II, Henry ran his families’ farm, The Perkins Farm, in Mystic while his brothers all served in the military.
He was a member of the 4-H Club where he served as a leader and the Grange. He was also a longtime member of the BF Hoxie Engine Co. Henry was also well known at local fairs where he participated in horse pulling contests and was awarded many ribbons at the Ledyard Fair for his vegetables. He also won the best of show for his single purple and pink aster. He was also known for his affection for his horse, Jerry.
Henry was retired from the Mystic Seaport and General Dynamics. For the past 14 ½ years, Henry was a dialysis patient at the RI Renal Center in Westerly.
He was married to Myrtle Louise Pearson Perkins in Mystic on August 13, 1960. Myrtle died February 24th.
Henry is survived by his brothers, Chester and Franklin Perkins of Stonington and William Perkins of Myrtle Beach, SC, nieces and nephews. He also is survived by his dear friends, Jim, Marianne, Mark, Jimmy, Alison, Andrew Henry, and Bradley Wydler. When Henry’s health declined 3 years ago, Mark was his constant caregiver and companion. Henry was predecased by his brothers, Charles and Robert perkins and a sister, Helen Perkins Wheeler.
The family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic on Thursday from 6-8pm. A Funeral Eucharist will be celebrated at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Friday at 11am. Burial in Elm Grove Cemetery.
Donations may be made to the Visiting Nurse Asoc of SECT, 403 North Frontage Rd, Waterford CT 06385.