Dessie Ree Larkin

With profound sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Dessie Ree Larkin, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, on April 26, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on March 25, 1943, in the warm embrace of Toomasuba, Mississippi, Dessie was a beacon of love and kindness, touching countless lives with her unwavering spirit. Dessie was the cherished daughter of the late I.W. and Emma Brown and was predeceased by her loving siblings, Norman (Katie) Brown, Lillie (Dan) Fluker, Ruby (Anderson) Rocker, Mary Ware, and Jessie Smith, as well as her beloved step-daughter, Vicki Bennett. Though her family tree has known the sorrow of loss, it continues to flourish with the deep roots of love she planted and nurtured over the years. In 1964, she married the love of her life, Johnny Larkin, with whom she shared a remarkable journey of over six decades. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, warmth, and devotion, raising a beautiful family that stands as a testament to their enduring love. Dessie leaves behind her devoted husband Johnny; her beloved son Ricky Larkin; her cherished daughters LaRhonda (Keith) Ellison and Precious Larkin; and her treasured step-children Mitchell (Joyce) Compton, Johnny Jr (Carla) Compton, Curtis Compton, and Phyliss Compton. Her memory will be lovingly preserved by her brothers Major (Mary) Foster, Eddie (Evonne) Brown, Johnny Brown, and Russell Brown, along with her sisters Linda (Carl) Hearn, Bernice (Bobby) McCall, and Juanita (James) Hopkins. Dessie was the proud grandmother of 24 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life. Her affection for them knew no bounds, and she was a guiding light in their lives, always ready with a warm embrace and sage advice, even if it wasn't sought. A dedicated employee at Meijers for 27 years, Dessie was known for her friendly smile and compassionate service as a customer service representative and cashier. Her commitment to her work was surpassed only by her dedication to her faith and her community. A devoted servant of God, Dessie was a longstanding member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church of Ypsilanti for over 50 years. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she generously offered her time to various church roles and to volunteering with the United Way, always eager to extend a helping hand to those in need. Dessie had a passion for fashion and style, often shopping for herself and her family, ensuring everyone was dressed with love and care. She had a green thumb that brought life and beauty to gardens both at home and in her neighborhood, and she found joy in traveling, exploring new places, and creating lasting memories. Known for her delectable macaroni and cheese and pound cakes, her culinary talents were a beloved family tradition. Her loving and nurturing nature, coupled with her willingness to offer help and advice, left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Dessie Ree Larkin will be remembered as a pillar of strength, a source of unconditional love, and a woman whose life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and community. As we gather to celebrate her extraordinary life, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on in the hearts and minds of those she touched. Dessie will be dearly missed and forever cherished. May her soul rest in eternal peace.