Dakota Paul Ingram

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Dakota Paul Ingram, a cherished son, brother, and friend, who departed from this world on Thursday, May 9, 2024, following a motorcycle accident in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and boundless empathy and compassion that touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His passing leaves us with a profound sense of loss, but also with an abundance of cherished memories that will forever keep his spirit alive in our hearts.

Dakota was born on December 9, 2002 at Women's and Children's Hospital in Lafayette, Louisiana, to Steven Paul Dugas and Carla Cecile Gatti Ingram, and was later adopted, on April 30, 2018, by his father, Stacy Dion Ingram.

Much of who Dakota was as a person is a testament to the unwavering dedication and love of his mother, Carla, throughout his childhood years. Her resilience, strength, and faith were the guiding forces that helped shape Dakota's character and enriched his life. Despite the challenges they faced, their home was filled with laughter, warmth, and an abundance of love. She provided Dakota with a foundation of unconditional love and support that empowered him to navigate life's challenges with grace and determination. Their bond was not only that of mother and son but of kindred spirits, united in their love for one another and their shared devotion to family.

Dakota's adoption by his dad, Stacy, at the age of 15, also played a huge part in shaping the man he became. The love and acceptance he shared with his dad was a testament to the power of unconditional love. It was a bond that helped to mold Dakota into the compassionate, resilient soul that we knew and loved. His dad's godly example instilled in him the values of kindness, compassion, and integrity, guiding him on a path of purpose and growth.

Dakota and his younger brother, Gentry, had an unbreakable bond of brotherhood and friendship. From childhood playmates to lifelong confidants, their relationship transcended mere kinship, growing into a friendship marked by love, understanding and unwavering support. Though they may have been the best of friends and occasional foes, their connection remained steadfast, a testament to the enduring power of brotherhood. Dakota cherished their shared memories and valued the presence of his brother in nearly every chapter of his life.

From a young age, Dakota displayed a remarkable intellect and zest for life. From the tranquil solace of the hunting camp to the warmth of family gatherings, Dakota found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. His childhood was spent on tractors and four-wheelers in the great outdoors with his "Buddy". He shared a special bond with his Poppa, finding joy in the serenity of nature during their hunting escapades, which often included stealing a brief nap in the deer stand in the wee morning hours.

Dakota had a knack for finding adventure, whether in the virtual realm of video games or the vibrant tapestry of life itself. He navigated the complexities of school with a hint of social awkwardness, yet his intelligence shone brightly, culminating in his graduation from Lafayette High School as a junior in 2020, a remarkable feat achieved amidst the challenges of the Covid pandemic.

His unique "quirks" - from meticulously arranging canned goods facing the same direction on grocery store shelves, to his incessant talking about nonsense at times, to his extremely "literal" nature, to his stubborn "old soul" demeanor - added layers to his vibrant personality. But it was his infectious laughter, reminiscent of SpongeBob himself, that truly endeared him to all who knew him. He had a gift for finding humor in the mundane and spreading joy wherever he went, such as in the simple act of naming every squirrel he saw "Chuck" and spreading cheer with a hearty "Merry Christmas" any day of the year.

Dakota's heart knew no bounds; he loved fiercely and without reservation. Whether engaging in lively conversations or lending a listening ear, he had a remarkable ability to connect with others, offering unwavering support and encouragement to all who crossed his path. He greeted every soul as a friend, engaging them in conversation with genuine interest and unwavering support for their endeavors.

Raised in the embrace of Christian faith at Our Savior's Church, Dakota embarked on a journey of spiritual discovery as a teenager. Though he faced moments of doubt and rebellion, his faith ultimately guided him home, reaffirming his devotion to God in recent years.

Dakota was a pillar of strength and support for his family, especially during times of loss. He selflessly helped care for both of his grandparents in the final months of their lives, embodying the true essence of love and devotion. His unwavering commitment to family was a testament to his compassionate nature.

Artistry ran deep within Dakota, evident in his love for art and tattoos. Dakota's first tattoo (of many) was a compass with a rose in the middle, and "Jeremiah 29:11" around it, which meant that "God guides my way". The rose and thorns represented that even though a journey is beautiful, it will be painful at times. His passion for tattoos led him to Foley, Alabama in 2023, where he embraced the opportunity to apprentice as a tattoo artist, leaving his mark on the world with his creative expression.

In December 2023, Dakota relocated to Tulsa, OK on another one of his adventures. He moved into his very first apartment earlier this year, and had just started his job as a Tulsa County "Juvenile Detention Youth Specialist" a few weeks prior to his accident. From what they've told us, the kids loved him.

Though Dakota's earthly journey has come to an end, his eternity has begun in Heaven with his Savior, Jesus Christ, and his spirit will live on in the cherished memories of those who were blessed to know him. May his laughter echo in our memories, and may his love and empathy continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, dear Dakota. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Dakota was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Carl Jones Gatti, Jr. (Poppa) and his maternal grandmother, Patricia Ann Snead Gatti (Mimi). He is survived by his father, Stacy Dion Ingram, his mother, Carla Cecile Gatti Ingram, his brother, Gentry Michael Ingram, his half-sister, Ashley Nicole Lagrant, his paternal grandparents, Carl & Myra Williams, his uncle, Carl Jones "CJ" Gatti, III, his aunt, Stephanie Ingram, and countless other treasured extended family members.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Dakota will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 3:00pm at Our Savior's Church, Midtown Campus, located at 101 Marie Antoinette Street in Lafayette, Louisiana. The family would love for you to join them in the celebration of Dakota's beautiful life.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Hub Lafayette-Urban Ministries (hublafayette.com), a ministry very close to Dakota's heart.