Wayne Edward Perkins, veteran, federal retiree
Wayne Edward Perkins, 87, of Millsboro, formerly of Arlington, Va., passed away peacefully Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family in his own home.
Born in Lancaster, N.H., June 27, 1938, Wayne was the cherished son of the late William Dana Perkins Sr. and Nellie (Sheridan) Perkins. From a young age, he carried a sense of duty, humor, and compassion that would become the hallmarks of his life. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force for eight years, answering the call during both the Vietnam War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. His service was distinguished not only by commitment to mission, but by the quiet strength and reliability that defined him.
After his honorable discharge, Wayne continued a lifetime of dedication to public service. He would go on to serve the federal government for 42 years, ultimately retiring in 2014 as the director of personnel, logistics supply, security and contracting. His career was marked by integrity, loyalty, and the many friendships he treasured over the decades.
Wayne’s talents stretched far beyond his professional life. He possessed a remarkable green thumb—his garden and landscaping were so meticulously cared for, they often resembled scenes lifted from the pages of a magazine. Tending to his flowers, shrubs, and trees brought him peace, pride, and joy. He also found delight in simple pleasures: afternoons spent with his beloved husband, Alvin, browsing local thrift stores, discovering quirky treasures, and sharing laughter in the small moments that make a life full.
Though he often joked about not being a cook, Wayne had a few specialties that his family adored—his lasagna, New England clam chowder, and corn chowder were staples of comfort and love at countless gatherings.
Wayne will be remembered most for his unmistakable wit, his spirited stubbornness, his fierce independence, and the humor that could lighten even the heaviest day. He lived sincerely, loved deeply, and stood firmly by those he cared for.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his husband, Alvin Terry Smith; and his son, Anthony Wayne Perkins. Wayne leaves behind a family who adored him, his daughters, Tina Marie Haynes of Millsboro, and Amanda Ellen Perkins of Georgia; his grandchildren, Jessica Norwood and her husband Arzell, Jacqueline Vasquez, and Megan Pomar; two great-grandchildren, Isaac Norwood and Scarlette Norwood; and his brother, Roderick Perkins of North Carolina.
A service to celebrate Wayne’s life will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Dec. 12, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Wayne’s name to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.
