Obituary of Dr. Clarence James Larkin, D.D.S.
Dr. Clarence J. “Jay” Larkin, Jr., D.D.S.
Dr. Clarence J. Larkin, Jr., age 84 of Joliet, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Adventist Medical Center, in Hinsdale. Jay was born on April 25, 1942, the son of the late Clarence James Larkin, Sr. and Elizabeth (nee Fay) Larkin. He was a graduate of Joliet Catholic Academy and furthered his education at Lewis University.
Jay earned his doctorate from Loyola University Dental School in 1967. He began his career working alongside his father in the family practice. Jay was a lifelong member of the American Dental Society and the Illinois State Dental Society. After dedicating 56 years to dentistry and caring for his patients, he spent his later years devoting his time to everything he loved outside of his practice.
Jay earned his pilot’s license and found great joy being in the cockpit among the clouds or on the ground cruising on his motorcycle or on his boat with his family. He was also an amateur HAM radio operator who took pleasure in communicating with people across the world. Jay had a brilliant mind, with a deep appreciation for science and physics that reflected his love of learning and problem-solving.
Although he was a man with many interests and hobbies, there was nothing that brought him more joy than spending time with his family.
Jay is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Carolyn (nee Johnson) Larkin; his daughter, Holly (Harry) Schultz; and his sister, Maureen (Gene) Ciancanelli. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Patrick Larkin.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the entire staff of Advent Health and St.Thomas Hospice for the care they showed to Jay and his family.
A Memorial Gathering for Dr. Clarence J. Larkin, Jr. will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. until prayers at 9:15 a.m. Procession will follow to Queen of Apostles Catholic Church, 18 Woodlawn Ave., Joliet, where a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. As it was his request, cremation rites have been accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name can be made to St. Thomas Hospice, 119 E. Ogden Ave Suite 111, Hinsdale, IL 60521.
For more information, please call the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home at 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
