David Kiker Hughes

David Kiker Hughes, devoted family man, entrepreneur and Navy veteran, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 28, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was 86 years old.

Known to all as Dave Hughes, he was born on December 17, 1938, in Abilene, Texas. He grew up in the oil fields of West Texas working as a rough neck during summers and played football and baseball at Abilene High School where his team won multiple Texas state championships.

Dave attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 1961. During his years at UT, he was actively involved in student leadership, serving as a Student Assemblyman, member of the CBA Council, a member of the Silver Spurs, NROTC, Sigma Nu fraternity and several other campus organizations. UT is also where David met and fell in love with fellow student Jacquelyn Benson. They were married after graduation in 1961 prior to being shipped out to Guam to begin David's Naval career.

First as an Ensign and later promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade, David served his country at the U.S. Naval Magazine in Guam where he supported Pacific Fleet operations in logistics and ordnance management. Jacque taught in local schools while the newly married couple lived on the island. Dave would later regale friends and family with stories from their life on Guam.

After completing his military service, David returned to civilian life and attended UT law school, but entrepreneurial opportunities proved too enticing. He joined Whataburger and became the franchisee for the state of Oklahoma. During that time, he and Jacque also built out their family adding daughter Holly and son Derek. Dave’s priority was to ensure his family had every opportunity to thrive and succeed.

David turned his entrepreneurial spirit towards the family oil business in the mid 1970’s. He was the third generation in a proud Texas family of oilmen. A Texas wildcatter in the truest sense, he approached oil exploration with family, courage, optimism and faith in hard work.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dave was known for his friendly and outgoing nature. He had an innate ability to bring smiles to those around him and was always ready with a story that entertained and connected visitors, friends and family. David’s spirit was characterized by a larger-than-life personality, unbridled optimism and an enduring love of family.

David is survived by his beloved wife Jacquelyn Benson Hughes; his daughter Holly Hughes Cole; his son Derek Hughes; and grandchildren, Lauren, Dakota, Kasey and Scout who brought immense joy and pride.

Donations can be made to the Oklahoma City VA Hospital in memory of David Kiker Hughes.
Please select Oklahoma City VA Healthcare System from the drop-down menu after clicking the link below:

https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/?utm_source=chatgpt.com