Thelma Croom Larkins, age 91, of Old Stage Hwy, Riegelwood went to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 11, 2009 with her family at her bedside.

She was born October 19, 1917 in Pender County to Henry Metz Croom, Sr. and Katie Pridgen Croom. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Victor M. Larkins, Sr., sisters, Dorothy Croom and Doris C. Colvin and brother, Elmer T. Croom.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Victor M. Larkins, Jr. (Charlene) of Riegelwood; daughters, Gail L Wise of Leland and Betty L. Stephens (Jerry) of Wilmington; brothers, Henry M. Croom, Jr. of Wilmington and Edward "Jim" Croom of Atkinson; grandchildren, Deborah Biddle, Vickie Radin (Larry), Donald Wise, Berry Stephens (Mary), David Stephens (Tracy) and Angie Hall (Greg); twelve great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Larkins was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. She was a faithful servant of the Lord all of her life, always thinking of others and always gracious in manner. Thelma's family is grateful to God for her life and for the kindness, friendship and prayers that have come their way especially during the past six years. A special thank you to the staff of Mariner Health of Wilmington for the loving care given to "Mama" and her family.

The family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at the home of Victor and Charlene Larkins, 1507 Fertilizer Rd., Riegelwood.

Graveside funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at Weyman Church Cemetery, NC Hwy 87, Riegelwood, with the Rev. Dwight Overby officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Weyman Church Cemetery Fund, C/O Patsy Hargrove, 4627 Old Stage Hwy, Riegelwood, NC 28456.

Condolences may be sent to www.quinnmcgowen.com

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw.