William Thomas (Billy) Larkin, age 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Winchester, TN on July 27, 2026. Billy was born on January 27, 1953 in Denmark, South Carolina to Lemuel Augustus (Gus) Larkin and Ruth Hall Larkin. Shortly afterwards, the Larkin family moved to Detroit, Michigan before settling back to their homeplace in Tennessee.
Billy grew up on the Caney Hollow family farm in Lexie Crossroads, TN in a very loving home surrounded by laughter and music. Billy was the youngest of the five Larkin children. Starting at a young age, Billy showed an exceptional gift for singing. He won a talent show in Winchester. TN and was thrilled to accept the prize of a spot to sing on the Noel Hall Saturday Showcase in Nashville, TN. This love for music and singing continued throughout his life.
Billy played football for the Huntland Hornets football team, and he graduated from Huntland High in 1970. Billy attended Middle Tennessee State University in Murfeesboro, TN and graduated with a business degree.
After graduation, Billy began spending time writing songs, singing, and working with his brother, Nelson Larkin, a music producer. Billy soon became an American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Over his music career, Billy released 10 nationally charted singles on the Billboard Country Charts between 1975-1981, six of which made the top 40. Billy was also nominated for New Faces of Country Music in 1975 by Country Music Seminar.
Billy spent many years lovingly caring for his Aunt Elma Hayword and later for his parents, Gus and Ruth. This was a true act of compassion, dedication, and love for his family.
Billy is preceded in death by his parents, Gus and Ruth Larkin and his brothers, Nelson Larkin, Ron Larkin, and John Larkin. He is survived by his sister Betty Larkin Wood; special lifelong friends, Jimmy and Denise Luttrell; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home in Winchester, TN on Saturday, August 1 from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm with a Memorial Service immediately following.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)-967-2222, www.moorecortner.com.
