In Loving Memory of Dakota Brooke Thacker — A Life of Faith, Love, and Unforgettable Joy
With hearts full of sorrow yet overflowing with love, we honor the beautiful life of Dakota Brooke Thacker, a radiant daughter, sister, friend, nurse, and horsewoman whose journey on this earth came to a close on July 13, 2025, as she went home to her Heavenly Father. Dakota, born on June 8, 1995, in Gainesville, Florida, blessed this world for thirty precious years, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, laughter, faith, and fierce determination.
The beloved daughter of Shannon Preston Thacker and Brandee Moody Barnes, Dakota grew up in Starke, Florida, where her love for life and adventure became apparent from an early age. A proud Keystone Heights High School Class of 2013 graduate, Dakota shined as a standout member of the volleyball team. Her athletic talent and competitive spirit earned her a volleyball scholarship to Lake Sumter State College, a reflection of her drive and dedication to everything she pursued.
But Dakota was never one to stop chasing her dreams. In 2016, she packed her bags and headed to South Dakota State University, where she continued her journey as a collegiate athlete—this time on the college rodeo team. There, she formed lasting friendships and created cherished memories that she carried with her always. Rodeo wasn’t just a sport for Dakota; it was a part of who she was. Her love of horses and barrel racing started in childhood and grew into a lifelong passion that reflected her spirited heart and love of the outdoors.
Returning home to Bradford County in 2019, Dakota poured her energy into serving others. With a heart full of compassion, she pursued a career in nursing, earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certificate and touching lives at Lake Butler Hospital. Never one to be complacent, she recently embarked on the bridge program to become a Registered Nurse, determined to further her calling of helping others in their most vulnerable moments. Dakota’s nursing career wasn’t just a job — it was a reflection of her nurturing spirit and her unwavering desire to make a difference.
Beyond her many accomplishments, Dakota will be remembered most for the love she freely gave. Her laughter was infectious — the kind that could light up a room and lift even the heaviest heart. Her smile, her quick wit, and her knack for finding joy in the everyday brought comfort and happiness to countless friends and family. She had a rare gift of making everyone around her feel seen, valued, and loved.
Her faith was a quiet but powerful force in her life. Though she often said she wasn’t perfect, Dakota loved Jesus deeply and lived her faith authentically. She shared that love openly with those around her, becoming a living testament to grace, resilience, and hope.
Dakota’s heart extended beyond people to her beloved animals — her loyal dogs Waylon and Judd, and her cherished horses Nel and Juno. Whether on horseback, at work, or with her family, Dakota’s spirit of adventure and unconditional love never wavered.
She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Martin & Judy Thacker, and her maternal grandfather, Robert “Bobby” Moody. Dakota is survived by her loving parents: Shannon (Amanda) Thacker of Melrose, FL, and Brandee (Richard) Barnes of Brooker, FL; her twin brother and lifelong best friend Dalton (Taylor) Thacker; her sister Josie Barnes; her stepsisters Kelsey & Kendra Hassell and Chelyen Barnes; her stepbrother Hunter Barnes; her maternal grandmother Diane Moody; her aunt Nikki (Mitchell) Gunter; and her precious niece Wiley Anne Thacker — along with countless friends, coworkers, and members of the community who loved her dearly.
A Memorial Celebration of Dakota’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Sampson City Church of God, with Brother John Frampton and Pastor Mike Connor officiating. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are under the care of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler (386-496-2008 ). A separate celebration of Dakota’s life will be held at a later date.
As we mourn Dakota’s passing, we also celebrate a life lived fully and beautifully. May we carry forward her legacy by loving deeply, laughing often, and living with the passion and heart that defined Dakota every day of her life.
Rest in peace, Dakota. Your light will forever shine in our hearts.