Stephen O. Lykes

Stephen O'Hara Lykes, 78, of Oklahoma City, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Steve was born on February 5, 1948, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Leon and Rose Lykes.

For more than five decades, Steve dedicated his life to education, coaching, mentorship, and service. While many knew him simply as "Coach Lykes," his greatest titles were husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend. His unwavering belief in young people, his contagious sense of humor, and his ability to inspire others left a lasting mark on generations of students, athletes, colleagues, and families.

Steve shared 54 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Anne. Together they built a family rooted in faith, love, laughter, and unwavering support.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Anne; his children, Jeff (Kristen) Lykes, Tim (Ana) Lykes, Lindsay (Dan) Brant, and Patrick Lykes; his sister, Lee Anne (Ken) Campbell; his brother, Mark (Debbie) Lykes; 11 cherished grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Rose Lykes.

Steve began his teaching and coaching career at Kerr Junior High before moving to Northwest Classen High School. In 1975, he accepted his first head football coaching position at Mount St. Mary High School, where he quickly established himself as a respected leader and mentor. He spent much of the 1980s at Casady School before joining Piedmont Public Schools, where he faithfully served for 28 years, including 11 years as Head Football Coach. He completed his coaching career as an assistant football coach at Southern Nazarene University. A lifelong learner who believed education never ends, Steve earned his Master's Degree in Education at the age of 65, demonstrating the same dedication to personal growth that he encouraged in his students.

Even after retiring from public education, Steve's passion for developing young people continued as Principal of Holy Trinity Catholic School in Okarche, completing a remarkable career in education.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Steve's honor to the Alzheimer's Association .

A Wake will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home, 14624 N. May Avenue, Oklahoma City. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1901 NW 18th Street, Oklahoma City. A private family burial at Resurrection Cemetery will follow.