Douglas Lee Sykes, age 65, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Shelby, Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

Born June 20, 1960, in Kenova, West Virginia, to Jimmy and Laura (Fox) Sykes, Douglas had lived in Shelby for the past 10 years. He was a 1978 graduate of Ceredo Kenova High School. Douglas went on to earn his Associate's degree in Accounting.

Douglas worked in construction for many years, and was a "jack of all trades".

Douglas dearly loved his children and grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than spending time with them, sharing laughs, and making memories that his family will always hold close. He enjoyed fishing and being outside. Another pastime, he liked to do was to visit the Shelby Mall.

He is survived by his three children, Bryan (Rachel) Sykes of Willard, Christina Sykes of Bucyrus and Laura (Seth Bennett) Sykes of Bucyrus; five grandchildren, Kaylor and MaKenzie Sykes of Willard, Brayden Sykes, currently serving in the United States Air Force, Novah and Savannah Utz of Bucyrus; his former wife of 30 years, Cheryl Sykes; four siblings, Peggy Lawson of West Virginia, Ann Conley of Kentucky, Jay (Susan) Sykes of the Philippines and Michael (Elisha) Sykes of West Virginia, along with nieces, nephews and other relatives who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends and family may come to honor his life from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Barkdull Funeral Home in Shelby, Ohio.

Memories and condolences can be left for the family online at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com.

Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory in Shelby has been honored to assist the Sykes family with arrangements.