Dansby Larkin, Jr.

Dansby Larkin Jr. was the sixth child born to the late Dansby Larkin Sr. and Annie Ruth Hayden Larkin in Yantley, Alabama on September 25, 1945. After completing Kinterbish High School, Dansby had big dreams, left Alabama and headed to Chicago.

Dansby (“Jay”) was no stranger to hard work and hospitality, working as a waiter in the Dining Car of Amtrak for 30 plus years.  He met countless celebrities and VIP, who praised him for his work ethic, as well as, his easy-going demeanor, during his tenure with Amtrak.

He was gifted with an astute mind for investment, though he was never formally educated in finance.  Dansby immersed himself in books about stocks, bonds, and various investment options. He was a self-taught investor and product researcher, who always sought to know every detail about anything in which he invested.  Dansby's favorite book, “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” helped him understand money, and he frequent his appreciation and wealth of knowledge with his children and grandchildren.  Dansby set an example for his family as not only a provider, but also a gentle leader.

Following retirement, Dansby relocated back Meridian, MS.  Country living was truly his happy place.  He was so happy in Meridian, being surrounded by loving family and spending time with his grandkids.

Dansby was quiet, and nothing like your typical man.  He did not watch sports, but only enjoyed watching westerns and action movies.  Dansby was an excellent cook and love to garden.  He loved animals, especially his dog Gail who was his best friend and was by his side until he took his last breath.

Dansby is survived by his wife, Linda Larkin; daughters, Juanakee (Roger) Byrd, Chicago, IL, Brittinay Larkin, Chicago, IL, Sherry Roberts (Charles) Flood, Atlanta, GA, Michelle Larkin-Hasek, Laurel, MD, Chanice Fry, Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Bryanna, Armani, Myonna, Malachi, Matthew, Amarion and Charles; great-granddaughter, Xiamora; sisters, Annie Evans, Essie Mae Harrison, Mildred Larkin, Juanakee Gaines, all of  Yantley, AL, Sylvia Hampton (Alphonso), Pennington, AL, Deborah Larkin, Arora, Colorado; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.  Dansby is predeceased by his parents, Dansby Larkin, Sr. and Annie Ruth Hayden Larkin; brothers, Walter Larkin, Thomas Larkin and Bryant Larkin; sisters, Betty Jean Brown, Ruby Lee Campbell, Helen Fox and Dorothy Kindle.