Dakota Ray Deese

Dakota Ray Deese, born on April 5, 2003, left this world far too soon on February 8, 2026, at the tender age of 22.

Dakota spent several years building playgrounds, where his work brought joy to countless children. Those who knew Dakota remember him for his infectious smile that could light up the darkest of days. He radiated happiness wherever he was. A lover of nature, Dakota found peace in the great outdoors, often taking fishing trips where he caught the biggest fish. Family was everything to Dakota. He treasured the playful moments spent with his nieces and nephews, always ready to throw a ball or dive into a game. Dakota’s life, though brief, was filled with love, laughter, and an unquenchable zest for life that will be missed deeply by his family and friends.

Dakota's spirit will live on in the hearts of his beloved family: his father, William Ray Deese, and his mother, Mistie Marie Stiles; his sisters, Destiny Deese, Marissa Hornsby, Madison Molton, Ashlynn Dukes, Kailey Stiles, and Macie Stiles; his brothers, Colt Hornsby and Liam Whitman; and his niece, Sophia Dellorso, and nephews, Carsten Deese and Jamesyn Smith. Also surviving are his aunts, Nicole White and Candi Stiles, and his bonus family: Carissa Rice, Madison Daniel and Dalton Daniel. 

In keeping with the family's wishes, Dakota will be cremated.  The family is planning a celebration of his life at a later date.

To remember and honor Dakota, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to help cover his final expenses.  You may donate to the funeral home online here or by calling with a card or sending a check.

Hutcheson's Memorial Chapel & Crematory of Buchanan is honored to serve the Deese family.