Henry Taylor Wilkins, Jr.

  Major Henry Taylor Wilkins, Jr., U.S. Air Force (Ret.), age 78, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025.

  Henry was born on July 15, 1946, in Hearne, Texas, to Henry Wilkins and Irene (Hand) Wilkins. He grew up in Ankeny, Iowa, where he graduated from high school before pursuing his passion for aerospace. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Iowa State University and later obtained his MBA from Central Michigan University.

  A proud Vietnam veteran, Henry served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force, flying B-52s. He retired at the rank of Major after a dedicated career. Following his military service, he continued sharing his expertise as a ground school instructor for American Airlines.

  In retirement, Henry embraced his love for travel, often exploring the country in his beloved Airstream. He was an active member of the North Texas Airstream Club and found community and faith as a member of Trinity Lutheran Church.

  Henry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother; and his daughters, Denise and Kelly.

  He is survived by his loving wife, Carol (Clay) Wilkins of Weatherford, Texas; daughter and son-in-law, Erika and Tim Eckley; son, Joel Wilkins; grandsons, Zachary and Ian Wilkins; stepdaughters and their husbands, Susan and Mark Stockstill and Sara and Pachis De la Garza; step-grandsons, Mark Alan Stockstill, Jr. and Clayton Maxwell; and his sister, Maureen Wilkins.

   Family and friends are invited to celebrate Henry’s life during a visitation on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, 913 North Elm Street, Weatherford, Texas 76086.

  A graveside inurnment with full military honors will follow on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211.

  Henry’s legacy of service, adventure, and love will be cherished by all who knew him.

  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Youth or to the Center of Hope.