SUFFOLK- Lillian Leche Larkin, 94, passed away July 29, 2018 at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center. She was born in St. Tomas Batangas, Philippines, to the late Ursin and Cypreana Leche.

To her credit, Lillian was an incredible mother and grandmother. Widowed at age 50, she heroically raised four wild teenagers without missing a beat. She never considered remarrying, because her children came first. Her house was always Hangout Central, there was always the smell of good food, and she was welcoming to anyone who showed up at her door. Everyone loved her cooking—and boy, could she cook.

Lillian remained active and busy her entire life. She was an avid bowler and golfer, but her greatest love was gardening. She was blessed with not one, but two, green thumbs. She remained active in the Women's DAV Auxiliary for 50-plus years. After her retirement from the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, she immediately began volunteering at Oasis Social Ministry, as well as at her parish, Church of the Resurrection, every Monday morning. She volunteered at the church until she was in her 90s.

Loved by all, Lillian will be greatly missed. She had the most generous spirit. They just don't make 'em like her anymore. If you asked her how she was, she would always reply, "Still kickin', just not that high." Now that she is in Heaven, I'll bet she's kickin' pretty high.

In addition to her parents, Lillian was predeceased by her husband, Robert Larkin; her son, Ronald Larkin; and her sister, Mary Cruz. She is survived by two sons, Timothy Larkin and David Larkin and wife Sandy; a daughter, Deborah Mason and husband Billy Joe; grandchildren Nicky, Tee, Will, Bobby, Kayla, and Taylor; and great-grandchildren Marissa, Taya, William, Kadyn, Hunter, Brianna, Emily, and Ally.

The family wishes to convey their deepest respect to the fine doctors and nurses at the Portsmouth Naval Hospital. Their professionalism and compassion has been appreciated more than they will ever know.

Family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 2, at Baker-Foster Funeral Home, 5685 Lee Farm Ln., Suffolk. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 3, at Church of the Resurrection, 3501 Cedar Ln., Portsmouth. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens, 3920 Airline Blvd., Chesapeake. Memorial donations may be made to Church of the Resurrection. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.