On Monday, March 8, 2010, James Arthur Wilkins (aka Freddy), 61 slipped away from us at approximately 10:00 AM in his apartment. Freddy was born June 8, 1948 in Bethel, North Carolina to the late Helen and Elijah Wilkins. Freddy moved to Connecticut in the early 1970’s and he has resided in cities such as Hartford and New Haven. Freddy was an active individual in his earlier years as he spent time with his wife and family members and helped whenever he was called upon. Freddy enjoyed cooking and dancing until his health deteriorated and became a barrier to such an active and vibrant lifestyle. Freddy was a quite man, but he always cared about his family and seemed loyal to those he loved. His unforgettable laugh, which is a strong trait of the Wilkins family, was a signature to his personality and will be sorely missed. Freddy attended Bethel High School in Bethel, North Carolina. His employment history included working a Yale University dining hall as a general service assistant, and Winchester Manufacturing Inc., as a manufacturer. Freddy was married to his late wife of 17 years, Patricia Taylor Wilkins. Although this union did not produce any children together, they had plenty of nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Freddy leaves to cherish to cherish his memory, 1 brother, Columbus Ray Wilkins, 2 sisters, Alice Lynette Wilkins and Gladys Jean Ward. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Freddy was predeceased by his mother, Helen Wilkins, father, Elijah Wilkins, wife, Patricia Taylor Wilkins and 2 brothers, Elijah Ray Wilkins and Elijah Thomas Wilkins. A celebration of his life will take place on Monday March 15, at The Howard K. Hill Funeral Home, 1287 Chapel Street, New Haven, CT. Viewing will be 10 – 11AM, service starts at 11AM. Interment will be at the State Street Cemetery, Hamden, CT. Services by Howard K. Hill Funeral Services. To leave a message of comfort to the Wilkins family, please visit www.hkhfuneralservices.com.
