"Some people touch our souls and stay in our hearts forever."
Douglas Bailey Lakin, age 96, died at home in Palm Bay, Florida, on October 11th, 2016.
Doug was born in Hitchins, KY on August 2nd, 1920. He was a resident of Pike County, KY until 4 years ago when he moved to Palm Bay, FL to live with his daughter. Doug went to Hellier High School, graduating in 1938. He worked at the old A & P grocery store in Pikeville and later became a self-employed carpet installer becoming well known and respected throughout Pike County and surrounding counties for his excellent work. He retired at the age of 79.
Doug was a proud military Veteran who served his country in the Navy during World War II. He went to radio school in Boston, MA and served on a PT boat.
He was an avid baseball fan who watched his beloved Cincinnati Reds for many, many years. You could always hear baseball at all hours of the night on his bedside radio. He could quote statistics from any baseball team. He also loved his University of Kentucky Wildcats basketball team and remembered many players and stats throughout the years.
Doug is survived by his lovely bride of 70 years, Josie (Easterling) Lakin; 3 children, Barbara Riggs of Melbourne, FL, Rhonda Linger of Palm Bay, FL, and Reginald (Bubby) Lakin of Pikeville, KY; and 1 sister Agatha Mullins of Paintsville, KY. In addition, he is survived by his 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. He also had several extended grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Doug was a member of Saving Grace Worship Center in Pikeville, KY for many years, where he was well loved by the congregation.