Dakota always left a funny message on my phone. We miss you so very much.
Love Always 
Grandma Sue and Grandpa Lawrence

I remember just being silly kids while Brandi would get her lashes done. I remember just seeing the happiest family come in. I didn’t know any of you guys super intimately but my heart breaks for everyone. She was the sweetest girl, super smart and funny. Rest in heaven sweet girl

Dakota was such a loving and kind great friend. Even though we weren't able to hang out a lot because my family didn't let me get out much and we both had busy lives, she was always a text away. She had such a contagious smile and laugh and when you spent time with her concrete memories were made. Dakota was and still is a blessing to this earth, and I am so glad I got to know her. I really do wish we could have made more memories and spent more time together; but I am thankful for the ones I have.

I was Dakota (and Colton's) before and after school nanny a few years back.
She called me Miss J the 'Nerdy'😊
She was always happy and her smile was infectious.
Her sense of humor was spot on, her comebacks quick!...and her laughter contagious.
She was always amused at my clumsiness/trips/falls..
With her hand outstretched she would offer to help me get back up...while laughing her head off! 
She enjoyed climbing into my lap for grandma cuddles...and she was as tall as I am.
She was an absolute bright light in my world.
I will never forget her....my heart is broken💔

I grew up with Dakota in elementary and middle school, I switched high schools and lost touch but when I joined Sno-isle this year for Fashion I got the privilege to meet her all over again. She gave me and my boyfriend a ride to his sisters house a few different times in September and those car rides will always make me laugh on how many times she hit the cribs. I thought I had more time to get to know her and talk to her again but I'm grateful for the time I got on the bus with her and those car rides.

I had the privilege of attending Sno-Isle Construction Trades with Dakota last year. I worked closely with her on a variety of projects and got to know her throughout the year. She was always smiling or cracking jokes. She brought  joy to the work we were doing everyday. She will be missed by many and will always be remembered at Sno-Isle CT.

Always proud of her fabulously “vibrant” aunties 🤣💕

On Dakota duty for Brandi and Andrew’s wedding day 🥰

Our last trip to Desert Aire together, and my last cuddle from my Toda 💙

Having fun with grandma Sue & aunt Karen over the summer.

Having fun with the algae in the river, Dakota made us bracelets & necklaces with it.

This time of the year with Dakota has always been special. She’s our first baby amongst the cousins and is the most special to all of us. It hurts. I see her in my daughters everyday.

OBITUARY

Dakota Kay Pickens

December 27, 2007 – October 26, 2025

Purdy & Kerr with Dawson Funeral Home

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