Wayne L. Wilkins

Wayne L. Wilkins, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and cherished member of the Brasher Falls community, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family at the age of 89 on June 8, 2025.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop where visitation will be held Wednesday June 11th from 5 – 7PM. Wayne’s Funeral Service and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday June 12th at 11:00AM at St. Patrick Church in Brasher Falls.

Wayne was born on April 5, 1936, to the late Clarence and Eva (Russell) Wilkins in Hopkinton, NY and graduated from St. Lawrence Central High School in 1953.

On July 2, 1955, he married Nancy Goodrich at the Holy Cross Church in Hopkinton with Fr. Audette presiding. They always stood by each other’s side throughout their life together. Wayne and Nancy’s bond was a testament to the love and commitment they shared.

Wayne lived a life dedicated to family, hard work, and the love of sports. He spent many fulfilling years with Kraft, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Wayne was a kind-hearted man known for his unwavering love for his family and friends. He proudly raised his family, teaching values of integrity and compassion to his children and grandchildren. He instilled a sense of kindness in all those who knew him.

He was a passionate sports fan, loved to play golf, was always cheering on his Boston Red Sox and fondly supported Syracuse basketball. Wayne is survived by his loving wife, of 69 years, Nancy; their three children, Judy Rizzo of Rochester, Bruce (Mary Jane) Wilkins of Peru, and Keith (Joyce) Wilkins of Brasher Falls; eight grandchildren, Stephanie (Brad) Deshane, Christopher Rizzo, Casey (Lauren) Wilkins, Britney (Justin) Palmer, Morgan Wilkins (Mike Rushford), Nathan Wilkins, Riley (Shannon) Wilkins and Molly (Bill) Pafford; eleven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Beulah Trippany of Massena.

Besides his parents Wayne was predeceased by an infant daughter Freda Ann, his brother and sister-in-law, Wade and Margaret Reynolds, and his sister Joyce Litner.

Flowers are respectfully declined. For those wishing to express an act of kindness, memorial contributions can be made to Tri-Town Rescue: P.O. Box 238 Brasher Falls, NY 13613, or Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Wayne will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

Memories and condolences can be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.