It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of David Ottis Lykins Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and successful entrepreneur. David died peacefully at home in Flemingsburg, following a long illness, with his family by his side at the age of 80, on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy built on hard work, independence, and relentless drive.
Born February 20, 1945, at home in Vanceburg, to the late David Ottis Lykins Sr. and Beulah Faye Hamm Lykins. David was a long-standing member of Winchester F&AM Lodge No. 20, as a 32nd degree Master Mason. A graduate of the University of Kentucky, where he was a walk-on for the Kentucky Wildcats Basketball Team, David entered the petroleum business in 1977 when he founded Lykins Enterprises. Beginning as an Ashland Oil agent with one small tankwagon and a single-county territory, he quickly recognized the limitations and chose to forge his own path as an independent jobber. In just four years, he grew his operation from zero gallons to over twelve million gallons annually.
In 1983, David constructed his first convenience store, which eventually turned into a chain of 16 stores most recently known as Lyco Fuels, including a wholesale business delivering petroleum products. Under his leadership, the business expanded to serve a wide range of customers — from riverboats and freight trains to coal mines, to schools, horse farms, and corner stores — throughout Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. He built the company into a trusted fuel supplier known for its scale and dependability. Over the years, he established partnerships with major petroleum brands, including 76, Citgo, Shell, Chevron, Valero, and Sunoco.
Beyond his business accomplishments, David had a lifelong passion for playing golf, travel, and classic cars. His love of motoring and competition led him to participate in the Great Race — a cross-country vintage car rally — four times, a testament to his adventurous spirit and appreciation for craftsmanship.
Survivors include his wife of 25 years, Elizabeth “Liz” Lykins; his sons, David Ottis Lykins III, Matthew Bryce Lykins, and Ryan Hunter Lykins; three stepchildren, Chad Lewis, Tara Collins, and Jared Lewis; and six grandchildren; Ashley Nicole Lykins, Aubree Lynn Lykins, Riley Carter Lykins; and Abby, Lauren, and Brody Collins.
He was also especially fond of his pets — Rowdy, his dog, and Trumpy, his cat — loyal companions who were always by his side.
David will be remembered not only for his entrepreneurial vision and tireless work ethic, but also for the love he shared with his family and the many lives he touched throughout his journey. His legacy lives on through his family in the values he instilled and the countless memories he leaves behind.
Services will be at Dickerson Funeral Home in Vanceburg. Visitation will be Monday, June 9, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Masonic funeral service at 7:00 p.m. during visitation. Services will be at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, 2025, with Pastor Wilma Erwin officiating. Burial will follow in Lewis County Memory Gardens in Black Oak.
Pallbearers will be David “Trey” Lykins, Matt Lykins, Ryan Lykins, Jared Lewis, Andrew Collins, and Seth Hutchison.
Condolences may be sent at www.globefamilyfc.com.
