William D. Harkins, generous, gregarious man
William “Billy” D. Harkins, 63, of Millsboro, formerly of Downingtown, Pa., passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023, on a trip in Harrisburg, Pa.
Billy was born in Upper Darby, Pa., May 5, 1959, son of William Harkins and Violet (Shriver) Harkins. He retired as an Entenmann’s driver after 35 years of service. Following his retirement, Billy pursued his love for the water and beach by moving to Millsboro, where he was the shop manager at Delaware Paddlesports in Lewes.
Billy carried an infectious smile and was always quick to engage with everyone he met. His adventurous spirit was reflected in his love for disc golf, paddleboarding, skateboarding, and his recently acquired taste for craft brews. Generous and gregarious, with a joking personality, made Billy loved by all.
He was preceded in death in 1977 by his father, William Harkins. In addition to his mother, Violet Harkins of Millsboro, Billy is survived by his two daughters, Kelly Harkins and Caitlyn Harkins, both of Wilmington; a sister, Joanne Sterlacci and her husband Rick of Millsboro; two brothers, Michael Harkins and his wife Brenda of Middletown, and Patrick Harkins and his wife Kimberley of Newark; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A prayer service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, at Melson Funeral Services chapel, 32013 Long Neck Rd., Millsboro, where friends and family may gather after 10 a.m. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Billy’s name to Delaware Burn Camp, P.O. Box 68, Dover, DE 19903. Billy, representing Delaware Paddlesports, took great pride and pleasure in providing paddleboards and instruction to these young victims.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.
