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Fred Lykins
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Fred Lykins Obituary
Fred Gordon Lykins, age 89, of Monterey, Tennessee, and Russellville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
He was born on July 30, 1936, in Miami, Oklahoma, to Alexander and Ruth Lykins. Fred grew up with a love for learning, a curiosity about how things worked, and a strong sense of service that guided him throughout his life.
After graduating from Placer High School in Auburn, California, in 1954, Fred joined the U.S. Navy, serving honorably as an electronics technician at the end of the Korean conflict. Following his military service, he began a long and fulfilling career with the United States Forest Service in 1965, where he worked until his retirement in 1996.
Fred was a devoted follower of Jesus and an active member of Grace Fellowship Church in Russellville, Arkansas. He was a faithful student of God's Word and lived out his faith through generosity and helping others. Whether wiring a house, fixing a friend's project, or building something from scratch, Fred found joy in using his hands to serve. He was known for being able to complete projects with "whatever was on hand," a gift that reflected both his resourcefulness and creativity.
In his free time, Fred loved playing cards and dominoes with family and friends. After retiring, his greatest joy was traveling across the country to visit his children and many grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Fred married the love of his life, Veda, and for 57 years, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service to others. He was preceded in death by his wife Veda and is survived by his children: Tommy Lykins (Sharon), Freddy Lykins (Carol), Ruth Burke (Bryon), Laura Satterberg (Mark), and Mark Lykins (Carol); 20 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren, along with many others who lovingly called him "Papa."
Fred will be remembered for his sense of humor, his deep faith, and his unwavering love for his family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 21 at Grace Fellowship Church in Russellville, Arkansas.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Fred Lykins
Memories and Condolences
for Fred Lykins
4 Entries
Cheryl Montre Miller
Earlier today
Fred and Veda were a huge part of my early years. I loved them both and know they are rejoicing with Jesus.
Janesica Burke Rakestraw
Yesterday
Matt often mention Fred as wiring our house and did it for free. Matt said he taught him alot and he always had good coffee! That was a long time ago, Matt said.
I remember Fred as a man of few word, but always wisdom.
I remember going to Tennessee to see Mom and Fred had a pocket in a jacket that was torn, and I mended it for him and he was so grateful.
But really what I remember, even though it's really a memory but more of an impression, is this feeling of him being a father to my brother Bryon. I know how much Bryon needed him and respected him. Thank you Fred and Veta for your love to all of our family.
I remember when I got a job at the First Baptist Church in Grass Valley, (my very first job) I was young, and Veta was the one who hired me (probably since Bryon was my brother) I was nervous and Veta grabbed my face and said...Do you know that Jesus loves you? Then she said, you have beautiful dimples! I felt so loved.
There are no words to say that describes the impact that Fred and Veta had upon my life and Matt's life and Bryons (my brother) life and I'm sure he would agree.
Lin Merklin
October 24, 2025
So many wonderful memories of Fred and his family in Grass Valley-Fred and Veda were friends with my parents and Freddie & Ruth lived with us while they finished high school. More than just friends- family. Prayers for peace and comfort; thanks for a life lived serving the Lord.
Dewayne and Sarah Dove
October 24, 2025
We are so very sorry. Our prayers are with all of you.
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