CASCO – Henry Perley “Skip” Watkins Jr., 85, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and son.

Born on June 17, 1941, Henry was the son of Henry Perley Watkins Sr. and Caroline Mildred Hartford Watkins. He attended local schools and graduated from Fryeburg Academy, where he was a resident student.

In April 1996, Henry married the love of his life, Zeena. Together they shared nearly 30 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on family, hard work, and adventure.

Henry was a lifelong businessman, craftsman, and community leader. Over the years he developed three mobile home parks, owned a body shop, garage, and towing business, restored and collected classic and antique automobiles, built race cars, and earned numerous awards for both his racing accomplishments and his meticulous vehicle restorations. He took tremendous pride in his classic car collection and loved sharing it with family, friends, and fellow enthusiasts. He restored the Watkins Barn and Watkins Farm, built homes and log cabins, and dedicated countless hours to preserving local history. Henry was instrumental in the Raymond-Casco Historical Society, helping construct its building using timber from his own property and working tirelessly to preserve the heritage of the community he loved.

A lifelong tradition was attending the Fryeburg Fair every year of his life, where he especially enjoyed steer pulling. Under the guidance of his mentor, Dick McConkey, Henry developed a lifelong appreciation for the sport and the friendships it fostered.

Henry was known for his quick wit, storytelling, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need. More than any accomplishment, he was devoted to his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Zeena Watkins; his son, Peter Watkins, and wife, Kasey; and his cherished grandchildren, Tenley, Kali, and Maverick, who brought him immeasurable joy.

Henry will be remembered for his remarkable work ethic, his craftsmanship, his love of family, his dedication to his community, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.

Visiting hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Rd. in Casco. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 7 followed by words of committal at the Murch Cemetery in South Casco. The celebration of Henry’s life will continue at the Raymond-Casco Historical Society, where family and friends are invited to gather in honor of his life and share in remembering the many lives he touched.

Condolences and tributes may be shared at http://www.hallfuneralhome.net.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Henry’s memory to the

Raymond-Casco Historical Society

P.O. Box 1055

Raymond, ME 04071