Gordon Larkins, Jr.

Gordon Eugene Larkins, Jr. was born September 1, 1940, in Nashville, TN. He was the sixth child born to the union of Gordon Eugene Larkins, Sr.  and Nellie Thompson Larkins. He was the baby boy, and was admittedly spoiled by his five older sisters-- Ernestine, Ethel Mary, Susie, Leticia, and Nellie-- who lovingly called him “Sugar Babe.” It was a name that shaped his personality and style. Gordon was preceded in death by his parents and four of his siblings. Gordon entered into eternal rest on November 8, 2023.

 Gordon attended Nashville and Davidson County schools, and in 1959, he graduated from Pearl High School. He enrolled at Tennessee A&I University before leaving in October 1962 to embark on his lifelong law enforcement career with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.

At an early age, Gordon professed his belief in Jesus Christ, and was baptized by Elder R.C. Maloy. He became a member of the Alameda Street Christian Church and for the rest of his life, he remained faithful to the church.

In 1961, Gordon married Barbara J. Pearson. This union produced the precious gift of a daughter, Pamela Eugenia. The family made their home in Nashville and were engaged members of the community. Gordon’s wife Barbara preceded him in death in February 2018. 

Gordon served on the police force for 32 years before retiring in June 1994.  In the span of those years, Gordon was promoted from Patrol Officer to Detective to Sergeant. He enjoyed the work and the camaraderie of others on the force and became a member of the National Black Police Association.

Gordon served the community through the Nashville Branch of the NAACP. In his retirement, he dedicated himself as a volunteer to man the Branch’s Jefferson Street office. He was an avid solicitor for voter registration and empowerment campaigns.  Gordon embraced the NAACP’s advocacy for civil rights and social justice, and was recognized as a Diamond Life member.  He served on the Annual Freedom Fund Committee and as Sergeant-at-Arms on the Executive Committee. He could always be counted on to be present at press conferences. In November 2021, he was honored as the recipient of the President’s Award for his commitment to the Nashville Branch of NAACP. 

One of Gordon’s greatest talents was making friends, and he made lots of them as he flashed his signature smile, wherever he went on his travels. He would also smile broadly as he listened to his favorite singers at any hour of the day or night on Classic Country.

Gordon leaves his legacy and memories to be cherished by those he loved:  his daughter Pamela (Jimmie) Hale; his grandson, Regis; his sister, Susie Matthews; his sister-in-law, Veorah Dukes, of Red Springs, NC; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; devoted caregivers: Ms. Bernice, Ms. Cleo, Ms. Eunice, and Ms. Ebony; special friends: Bobby & Helen Hill, Herman & Sue Ross, and Anderson Rucks, Jr.; his Alameda Christian Church family, and many, many friends and associates.