Dakota Chase Epling

Dakota Chase Epling earned his wings on Thursday, December 11, 2025, after an auto accident. He was 26 years old. He was the brightest light and biggest heart we were ever blessed to call our own.

Dakota graduated from South Charleston High School and Ben Franklin in 2017. He worked construction and many local jobs in the community. Growing up, Dakota played sports for South Charleston and stayed a fan of all things sports. Dakota was diagnosed with a debilitating mental illness at the age of 20, followed by addiction. He struggled for six years, but had found his way home and was sober for almost 30 days. He finally had hope for the future. We couldn't have been more proud and are eternally thankful for that time with him. For those who knew him, you know he did not know a stranger and would worry about others over himself.

Dakota is survived by his parents, Kenneth Epling and Rachel Epling of South Charleston; his brother, Andrew Overbaugh of Charleston; his grandma, Ruth Midkiff of South Charleston; grandparents, Kathy and Jack Tolbert of Indiana. Dakota had lots of cousins who adored him and two new nieces who called him Uncle Koko, His aunts and uncles who loved him dearly and like their own.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date

Condolences may be sent to his family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.