Dakota James Freeman, 36, of Parrish, was born July 8, 1989, and passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Princeton Baptist Medical Center.

Dakota lived a life full of love, laughter, and resilience. He loved God, his Family, and especially his church Family at New Life Fellowship. To know him was to be touched by his kindness and his ability to make people laugh, even in difficult times. He had a gift for bringing light to those around him and a personality that made him unforgettable. His greatest joy came from being an uncle "Uncle Kota" which he cherished deeply. Fisher, Harlow, and Samson adored him, and he loved them with all his heart, often going out of his way to make them smile and feel special.

Life brought challenges, and Dakota faced many battles. Yet, his struggles did not define who he was. He was more than the hardships he endured; he was a son, a brother, a grandson, an uncle, a nephew, and a friend. He was someone who knew Gods plan of love, who gave, who tried, and who never stopped being loved in return. Dakota will forever be remembered for his humor, his heart, and the way he made others feel. His absence leaves a hole that cannot be filled, but his memory will continue to bring comfort, laughter, and light.

Dakota was preceded in death by his Father-Wendell Scott Freeman (Rosie); Brother-Jackson Wayne Freeman; Grandmother-Bettie Jo Gross; Grandfather-James "Julip" Freeman; Great Grandmothers-Nettie Johnson and Lois Jones.

He is survived by his Mother-Waynette Gross Freeman; Brother-Madison Jo Rilee Freeman; Nephews-Fisher Scott Freeman and Samson Wayne Freeman; Niece-Harlow Darby Jo Freeman; Grandfather-Wayne Gross; Grandmother-Wanda Sue Freeman; Aunts-Malea Gross Stewart and Kristian Foster Gross; Uncles-Hunter Lee Gross, Wayne Gross, Jr. and Clark Stewart; Cousins-Gabriel Gross, Garrison Gross and Grayclyn "Willow" Gross, Lance Freeman, Niki Freeman, Grayson Griffith Scott, Greer James Scott, and Carson Gross Griffith.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Collins-Burke Funeral Home, funeral services will follow at 2:00  p.m. in the Collins-Burke Chapel.  Burial to follow at Odom Memorial Cemetery. Jerry Norris will officiate.  Friends and family are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Dakota's life, years he lived, and the love and joy he gave.