Larkin Elander Brown Jr., 83, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 3, 2026, in hospice, surrounded by his family. He was born on July 24, 1943, in Roanoke, Virginia, to the late Larkin E. Brown Sr. and Hattie Mae Fleming Brown and was the husband of 41 years to the love of his life, Betty Caldwell Brown. Larkin carried the strength of his family, the faith of his upbringing, and a quiet dignity that stayed with him throughout his life.

Larkin grew up in Vinton, Virginia. His love of music began early as he sang in the Junior and Senior Choirs at church. He graduated from George Washington Carver High School in Salem, Virginia, where his love of music continued as he played drums in the high school band and sang in the school choir. He earned an Associate’s degree from Virginia Western Community College in 1977.

Larkin served his country with honor, joining the U.S. Army in 1965, being sent directly to the Vietnam War in 1966. After returning from Vietnam, he continued his service by joining the Army Reserve and later returned to active duty in 1984. In the military he served in Missouri, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia and North Carolina. In 2001, Larkin retired with Honors from the Army, serving as a Trainer of troops. He faithfully served a total of 33 years with dignity and pride.

Larkin also had a deep love for cars, and they brought him so much joy. He cared for each one he owned with the same dedication and attention he gave to the things he loved. His vehicles were always spotless, polished, and pristine — a reflection of his pride, discipline, and love for them. He always said, “Cars run better when they are clean!”

Larkin was always a great storyteller. His stories were very vivid and funny and by the end, he had everyone laughing! He was always happy, never met a stranger, and greeted everyone with his amazing smile. Larkin also had a kind and generous heart, helping anyone who needed it. His spirit will always linger in the lives of the people he touched.

Larkin was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Nathan Fleming Brown. He is survived by his wife, Betty; his daughters April Garrett (Jim) and Autumn Huffines (Jack); his sisters, Patricia Johnson Robertson, Gwendolyn Brown Harris, and Carrie Brown Taylor; his brother, Rev. Frank C. Brown (Linda); five grandchildren, Jordan Garrett (Whitney), Bradley Garrett (Hunter), Jack Huffines III, Cheyenne Huffines, and Sophia Pelton (Forrest); four great-grandchildren, Abigail, Madison, Carter and Brooks Garrett; his children from his first marriage Leonard, Russell and Cynthia Anthony; and many relatives and friends who will hold him close in their hearts.

Through it all, Larkin served his country with dignity and pride, loved his family with a faithful heart, and walked through life with a quiet strength that will not be forgotten. His life was a blessing, his memory a comfort, and his legacy will continue through all who were touched by his love and example.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, September 11, 2026 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Alamance Memorial Park with military honors. The family will receive friends from 12:00 – 12:45 PM prior to the service at the funeral home.