Dakota Brooke Thacker

Dakota Brooke Thacker, age 30, of Starke, Florida, went to her Heavenly home on July 13, 2025. Born on June 8, 1995, in Gainesville, Florida. Dakota was the beloved daughter of Shannon Preston Thacker and Brandee Moody Barnes. Dakota graduated from Keystone Heights High School in 2013, where she stood out as a valued member of the volleyball team. Her athletic talent earned her a volleyball scholarship to Lake Sumter State College. In 2016, she followed her dreams all the way to South Dakota State University. There, she joined the college rodeo team and made cherished lifelong friends, creating memories that she carried with her always. Dakota was a passionate horsewoman from a young age. She began riding and barrel racing as a little girl. Her love for the sport only grew stronger over the years. After returning to Bradford County in 2019, Dakota pursued a career in nursing—earning her Licensed Practical Nurse certificate and working with care and compassion at Lake Butler Hospital. Never one to settle, Dakota recently began the bridge program to become a Registered Nurse, driven by her deep desire to help others. She was passionate about her faith and made it known though she wasn’t perfect she loved Jesus deeply. Dakota was a radiant soul who brought light wherever she went. Her laughter was infectious, her spirit warm, and her heart always open. She had the unique ability to make everyone around her feel welcomed, loved, and seen. Even in difficult times, she could find the humor to lift others up. Dakota’s love extended beyond people to her cherished animals, including her two loyal dogs, Waylon and Judd, and her beloved horses, Nel and Juno. Dakota’s presence was a blessing to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her kindness, humor, and the joy she spread so effortlessly. Dakota was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Martin & Judy Thacker; maternal grandfather, Robert “Bobby” Moody.

Dakota is survived by her father, Shannon (Amanda) Thacker of Melrose, FL; mother, Brandee (Richard) Barnes of Brooker, FL ; twin brother and best friend, Dalton (Taylor) Thacker; sister, Josie Barnes; stepsisters, Kelsey & Kendra Hassell, and Chelyen Barnes; step brother, Hunter Barnes; maternal grandmother, Diane Moody; aunt, Nikki (Mitchell) Gunter; and niece, Wiley Anne Thacker.

A Memorial Celebration will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Sampson City Church of God with Brother John Frampton and Pastor Mike Connor officiating. A visitation with be held an hour prior. Arrangements are under the care of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. A celebration of Dakota’s life will be held at a later date.