Roland Lester Larkin

Roland was born on January 21, 1945, in Oakridge, Tennessee. He spent his formative years in the Roebuck neighborhood, where he graduated from Banks High School with the class of 1963. Driven by a deep curiosity for how things worked, Roland pursued higher education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), earning degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Metallurgy Engineering.

Mr. Larkin dedicated a remarkable 44 years of his life to ACIPCO (American Cast Iron Pipe Company), where he served as the esteemed Manager of Valve Engineering. After his retirement from ACIPCO, his expertise was still highly sought after, leading him to accept the position of Chief Engineer at J&S Valve in Huffman, Texas.

Roland's deep faith was central to his life. He was an active member of Hope Church and had previously been a devoted member of Gardendale First Baptist Church for over 30 years.

Roland's greatest source of pride and joy was his family. He is survived by the love of his life, his devoted wife of 61 years, Bonnie Larkin, his son, Keith Larkin, and his daughter, Lori Larkin Turner. He was a beloved grandfather to Ashlyn Cate Turner and Larkin Turner. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and their children, all of whom will deeply miss his presence.

Services for Mr. Larkin will be held on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025. Visitation will be held at Ridout Funeral Home Gardendale Chapel, located at 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, Alabama 35071, beginning at 10:00 AM.

A Graveside Service will immediately follow the visitation at 11:00 AM at Moncrief Cemetery.