The owner of former furniture business Edwards Furnishers, Peter Larkins, has sadly passed away.
In an announcement from the Larkins family, they confirmed Peter died on the 24 January 2026 after suffering with dementia for a few years. Peter passed away peacefully with his daughter Sue by his side.
Peter Larkins – Obituary 1937-2026
Peter successfully owned and ran Edwards Furnishers in Ware Herts, for over 40 years with the help of his son Dave. Well, known as a no nonsense and warm character in the industry, he sold up, closed the shop and finally retired in 2012.
Peter left school and trained as a tool engineer in his early career, and could put his hand to any task, installing central heating systems and building extensions to the family home through the years.
In his early life, he had a keen interest in motorbikes, which moved into boats and eventually he gained his private pilot’s licence during the mid 90’s. This was his passion and owned and operated a light aircraft, regularly flying across the channel to France for Sunday lunch! He became an accomplished pilot and flew himself with family and friends to destinations as far as Tenerife, Spain and Jerusalem in Israel.
Peter started his furniture career with Ted Charles in Waltham Abbey, manufacturing bespoke upholstery which led into reupholstery and refurbing several London pub interiors. In the mid 70’s he opened Edwards Furnishers with a partner and become the sole proprietor a few years later.
Dave, his son, joined the business during the early 80’s. Dave recalls – “Dad was certainly one of a kind, always focused on the business, with joy and laughter. He didn’t suffer fools but was a straight and fair man. Reps and agents would often call and would be welcomed with a cuppa – often staying to chat for half the day, and more often than not – leaving with a new display order. Dad was really one of kind and will be sadly missed by us all.”
Peter’s funeral will be held at The Vale Crematorium near Pershore Worcs at Midday on 2 March 2026, attended by his family and friends – followed by a wake at Ego-Manor Farm Worcester.
If you are planning to attend the funeral, please contact Dave Larkins in advance on davel@uk.htlinternational.com or 07866 494745.
