Mary Daylor Larkin

Mary Kathryn Grandfield Daylor Larkin, born March 23, 1922 in Fall River, MA, passed away in her home of nearly sixty years in Long Beach, CA on Monday, June 5, 2017.  Her husband Frank Larkin, her parents, Frank and Kathryn Daylor, and her siblings, Kathryn, Margaret and David preceded her in death. Mary is survived by her brother, Frank Daylor, of Richmond, VA, and her four children Kathryn, Maribeth, Peter, and Maggie. In addition, she leaves behind 18 nieces and nephews and their children.

Mary graduated from University Massachusetts, Amherst, in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Her career started during WWII and, along with many other graduates of her time, she worked in support of the war effort. Post war, in her tenure as a cosmetic chemist, she was on the team that developed the first home permanent. She enjoyed her time in that role and was proud of the accomplishment.

Mary and Frank moved to California in 1957. She fell in love with Long Beach and cherished the many close friendships they created. They were a fun loving tribe that played, prayed and raised kids together. Mary and Frank were active in parish events, traveled extensively and spent summers on the beach at 64th Place and Sandbridge. In retirement, she enjoyed many activities including golf and served as a commissioner for several years. Although she left the east coast in the late 50’s, her love of family called her back for many fun-filled visits to Hull, MA, Richmond and Winchester, VA. Beginning in 2003, annual trips to NYC and Sandbridge, VA were highlights of the year. Mary was upbeat, had a brilliant smile and an extremely clever wit which she carried with her wherever she went.

Mary was blessed to live a life that, by any standard, was “as good as it gets”. We miss her and know she is now with her God, and with the many family and friends who she loved and who sustained her throughout her life.