Dakota Blake Fitzgerald, 30 of Madison Heights rode his Harley-Davidson through the gates of Heaven on the afternoon of November 9, 2025, following a tragic accident doing what he loved most—riding his motorcycle. Dakota lived life full throttle, always ready to lend a helping hand, give what he had, share his bright smile, and make every moment count.
Dakota was a dedicated mechanic at Tire Depot, known for his hard work, skill, and friendly nature—he truly never met a stranger. A simple man at heart, Dakota cherished time spent with close friends and loved ones, often enjoying evenings at The Stadium Inn. He was a friend to all—respectful, kind, and full of joy that lifted those around him.
He is survived by his beloved mother, Jackie Moss Fitzgerald (Mike Hamilton); paternal grandfather, Lincoln Fitzgerald; maternal grandmother, Patricia Moss; sister, Jaime Holiday-Fitzgerald, and sister-in-law, Christa; and aunts and uncles, Jody and John Thomas, Jan Thomas, Jennifer and Emmett Fielder, and David and Martha Fitzgerald.
Dakota also leaves behind his close friends Travis and Brooke Harris, Carroll Martin, Ryan Campbell, and Daniel Martin, along with many other extended family members and dear friends who will forever miss his laughter and light.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edwin Fitzgerald; grandfather, Joe Moss and grandmother, Sterling Fitzgerald; great-grandmother, Martha Lee; uncles, Todd Fitzgerald and Clayton Thomas; and cousin, Alyssa Branham.
A service celebrating Dakota’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Randolph Memorial Baptist Church, with Pastor Derik Hamby and Rev. Carroll Martin officiating. Interment will follow in Amherst Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Whitten Monelison Chapel.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Neighbors Helping Neighbors of Amherst County, www.nhnamherst.org, Randolph Memorial Baptist Church, 4246 S. Amherst Hwy., Madison Heights, VA 24572 or Kingswood Baptist Church, 159 Kingswood Ln, Arrington, VA 22922.
