Thomas Brian Larkin, Sr.

Thomas Brian Larkin passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born to Irish immigrants William Larkin of Dublin and Eileen Tarpey of County Mayo, Tom was one of five children—Joan, William Jr., Marie, and Peter. He grew up in Washington Heights, where he spent countless hours playing stickball and football with neighborhood friends. A fearless and adventurous swimmer, he learned the water by sneaking into the Highbridge pool at night and braving the currents of the Hudson River.

Tom attended Incarnation Elementary School and George Washington High School. During summers he worked as a caddie at the famed Sagamore Golf Resort in Lake George. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard. He completed two tours in Vietnam before receiving his honorable discharge.

After four years of service, Tom returned home to Washington Heights. He began working in security at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York before answering the call to serve with the New York City Police Department.

Summers at the Jersey Shore brought him one of life’s greatest blessings—meeting the love of his life, Maureen Flanagan. They married May 9, 1970 and built a beautiful life together, raising two sons, Thomas Jr. (retired FDNY) and Brian (active Battalion Chief, FDNY).

Tom’s career with the NYPD distinguished him as a decorated Detective, earning the Gold Shield. He worked closely with the DEA on undercover operations, courageously participating in numerous high-stakes cases on the streets of New York City. His bravery, dedication, and service left a lasting mark on the department and the city he loved.

Following his retirement from the force, Tom embarked on a second career as an X-ray technician at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut, where he was admired for his warmth and compassion with patients.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife Maureen; his sons Thomas Jr. (Tara) Larkin and Brian (Jeanne) Larkin; and his beloved grandchildren Caera, Brian Jr., Meghan, and Katelynn. He also leaves behind his brother Peter (Dottie) Larkin, along with extended family and countless friends who will remember him for his humor, bravery, loyalty, and unwavering love for family.

Tom’s life was one of service, courage, and deep devotion. He will be profoundly missed and forever cherished.

Family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday October 7, 2025 from 3pm to 6pm at The Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals 706 Grand Central Ave. Lavallette, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday October 8, 2025 10am at St. Pio of Pietrelcina RC Church, Lavallette, NJ. Burial will take place on Thursday October 9, 2025 12 noon at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Valhalla, NY. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.ryanfuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Tunnel of Towers https://t2t.org/

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