Karen Eileen Lykins (Heller), age 79, passed away on June 24, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family and friends in her residence Kingston of Ashland. She was born on November 14, 1946, in Galion, Ohio, to Alta and Richard Heller.
A lifelong resident of Richland and Ashland counties, Karen grew up in Butler, Ohio, and was a proud member of Clear Fork Valley High School’s first graduating class in 1964. She later made her home in Loudonville, where she spent many cherished years building a life centered on family and friendship.
Karen dedicated many years of service to the Mohican Juvenile Correctional Facility, where she worked as the payroll officer before retiring to enjoy time with her husband, Roger, and the family she loved so dearly.
Above all else, Karen was devoted to her family and the lord. She found her greatest joy in being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Angela (Mike) Thomas; her grandchildren, Bethany (Jerek) Shaffer, Michael Thomas, and Jamie Wilson all of Mansfield; her brothers, Daryl (Cheryl) Heller of Glenmont and Greg Heller of Mansfield; and her great-grandchildren, Remington and Eilee Shaffer. She also leaves behind many close friends and extended family members who will miss her deeply.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roger Lykins; her parents, Alta and Richard Heller; and her nephew, Eric Heller.
Karen enjoyed traveling and especially loved trips to the casino with Roger. She had a selfless heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. In her later years, she developed a feisty streak and a spirited attitude that could keep her family on their toes. Though it sometimes brought moments of frustration, it was also part of what made Karen uniquely herself and is something her family will remember and miss most.
Karen’s love, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear leave behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Karen’s family will greet friends from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Monday, June 29, 2026 in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home. A service honoring her life and faith will follow at 2:00 pm with Chaplain Dave Matos officiating.
Contributions can be made in Karen’s memory to Gentiva Hospice of Mt. Vernon or the Richland County Humane Society.
The Bellville Butler Snyder Funeral Home is honored to care for Karen and serve her family. To leave a condolence for the family or to share a fond memory please visit Karen’s obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home, Bellville Butler Chapel
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com