Henry Lincoln Dockins, Jr.

Celebrating the Life of Henry Lincoln Dockins, Jr.

And let us not be weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have opportunity, let us do good unto all men.
— Galatians 6:9–10 (KJV)

With hearts filled with love, gratitude, and cherished memories, we celebrate the life and legacy of Henry Lincoln Dockins, Jr. Though our hearts are saddened by his passing on July 24, 2026, we rejoice in knowing that his life was a blessing to all who knew him and that his legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

Henry Lincoln Dockins, Jr. was born on July 8, 1953, in his parents; home in East New Market, Maryland, to the late Bertha Dorina Henry Dockins and Henry Lincoln Dockins, Sr., affectionately known as Butterball; He attended Dorchester County Public Schools and graduated from North Dorchester High School with the Class of 1971.

Henry had a lifelong love for basketball. An avid player in his younger years, he remained a devoted NBA fan throughout his life. If you were a Los Angeles Lakers fan and admired Kobe Bryant, you and Henry were sure to have an enjoyable conversation, and you were alright with him!

Henry was a dedicated and a hardworking man whose strong work ethic was evident throughout his life. He was employed at Coldwater Seafood and also served as a school bus driver for Dorchester County Public Schools through a private contractor whenever his services were needed.

Some of Henry’s earliest and most meaningful lessons were learned while working alongside his father at Dockins Service Station. It was there that he witnessed firsthand the true meaning of serving others. The name “Dockins Service Station” reflected more than a business—it represented a deep family commitment to helping people. Henry observed his father generously assist customers in need, often with little expectation in return. The service station became more than a place to purchase fuel; it was the heart of the community, where neighbors gathered to discuss current events, share stories, enjoy a cold drink, and experience genuine kindness. These early experiences helped shape Henry’s own spirit of generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving others.

In 1980, following the passing of his father, Henry became manager of the store alongside his mother, a role he continued until her passing in 2016. At that time, he became the sole owner of Dockins Service Station. Henry carried forward the same values and traditions established by his father, giving freely of his time and service to all who came through the doors. He worked in the garage repairing vehicles, pumped gas, and assisted customers in the store with care and pride. His loving wife worked faithfully by his side, supporting him in the daily operations of the business.

Henry remained devoted to Dockins Service Station until his health no longer allowed him to work. Even after stepping away, the friendships and bonds he formed over the years endured, remaining a source of comfort and connection until the end.

Henry was a devoted husband and family man whose greatest joy was found in the love of his life, Dorinda Nichols Dockins. Together, they shared an extraordinary 59-year journey, building a relationship rooted in love, friendship, and unwavering devotion, before being united in marriage on August 9, 1997.

Their marriage was a beautiful testimony of commitment and unconditional love. If a dictionary were to define the word wife, Dorinda’s name could easily be listed beside it. She lovingly cared for Henry through every season of life. When illness came, her devotion only grew stronger. She cared for him in their home, provided exceptional care, and faithfully remained by his side—leaving only when absolutely necessary—until he took his last breath. Her unwavering love was a living example of the vows she made and faithfully kept, according to the Holy scriptures.

More than anything, Henry will be remembered for the love he gave so freely. His warm smile, gentle spirit, generous heart, and welcoming nature left an unforgettable impression on everyone he met. He had a unique ability to make people feel at home, appreciated, and valued. His life was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, kindness, humility, and selfless service.

Although Henry’s earthly journey has come to an end, the love he shared, the values he lived by, and the memories he created will continue to inspire all who knew him. His legacy of compassion, devotion, generosity, and unwavering love will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and the East New Market community he loved so dearly.

Henry Lincoln Dockins, Jr. leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Dorinda
Dockins; his siblings, Doretha Dashiell (Daniel), Sharon Pinder (Ronald), and
Charles Elbert (Florine); his brother-in-law, Darcy Nichols; his sisters-in-law,
Druscilla Stevenson, Desiree Holland (James), and Deanna Green; his aunts,
Mamie Spencer, Gerlean Dockins, and Delores Henry; his uncles, Gregory Walls
and Anthony Walls; his godchildren, Candice White, Atear Frock, and Zakiyah
Sampson; his special nephew, Josiah Green; his special niece, Danijah Tilghman;
and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and the entire East New Market
community, all of whom will forever treasure his memory.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the compassionate staff of Coastal Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and comfort they provided to Henry and his loved ones during his time of need.

Henry’s life reminds us that the greatest legacy is not measured by wealth or accomplishments, but by the love we share, the lives we touch, and the kindness we leave behind.