Jennifer Kelly Larkin

Jennifer Kelly Larkin of Stow, OH, passed away unexpectedly on July 12, 2025 at the age of 41. Born in Roanoke, VA on June 30, 1984 to Kevin & Jackie Larkin, she was preceded in death by her grandparents, John & Eleanor Kelly and Frank & Pauline Larkin. Jen is survived by her adopted daughter, Penelope; parents, Kevin and Jackie; two sisters, Joanna Giannell and Kimberly Byars; a niece and a nephew, numerous cousins, aunts, uncles and second cousins.

From the age of 3 until the start of high school, she lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma. When her dad accepted a job in the Akron area, the family moved to Hudson where Jen graduated from Hudson High School in 2003. She went on to graduate from Ashland University in 2007 with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation. In 2009 she decided to seek a Master’s Degree in Administrative Education at the University of Nebraska. While in Lincoln, she became a true Cornhusker fan and loved everything about the school.

Jennifer loved adventure and was always willing to try anything. Fortunately, she told us of her escapades (like skydiving and wilderness hiking) after she did them. Christmas was her favorite holiday and couldn’t wait to start watching holiday movies. She knew every line to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

Jen’s passion in life was to help people. After graduation, she worked at the Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges in Tulsa, OK. She then tended to gravitate to employment fields that offered unique experiences and opportunities in customer service. From working for a coal company, to a landscaping company, to a high-performance roofing company to her recent position at Majestic Steel, Jen thrived on learning new industries.

Jen had big dreams, lofty goals, and a heart of gold. She left this earth far too soon and will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers or gifts, our family asks that you tell your loved ones how much you love them, give hugs, tell corny jokes, laugh, and spread kindness wherever you go.

There will be a 4pm Funeral Mass on THURSDAY, August 7 at Guardian Angels Church located at 1676 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley, OH. A reception will be held at the church immediately following the service.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)