Dakota Isaac Perry, 23, left an unforgettable mark on this world through his music, brilliance, and vibrant spirit. Born on February 26, 2003, Dakota passed away far too soon, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, laughter, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

A gifted musician, Dakota was most at home with a guitar in his hands, both playing and teaching with a natural ability that inspired those around him. He was equally skilled on the drums, bass, and piano. Largely self-taught, he furthered his music education at Winthrop University. As a performer and teacher, he is recognized for opening the eyes of his students and those who played along side him in a manner that ignited lifetime flames for music. 

From an early age, Dakota’s great intellect, strength, and passion was undeniable—developing an extensive vocabulary as a toddler, excelling academically, and earning numerous honors, awards, and scholarships. His talent for entertaining revealed itself early, from writing and starring in his own films as a child to mastering multiple instruments and shaping a path as a professional music instructor. 

Dakota lived with boldness and curiosity, embracing life with an adventurous heart. Whether skateboarding, snowboarding, or seeking out new thrills, he pursued experiences with fearless enthusiasm. He was known for his contagious humor, magnetic personality, quick wit, mischievous nature, and his uncanny impersonations. He brought energy and light into every room, often becoming the center of joy in any gathering. 

To those who knew him best, Dakota was more than talented—he was a fiercely, deeply loving companion, volunteering for years in church music and audio visual programs, and was endeared for holding profound bonds with peers with special needs and challenges. 

From the moment Dakota was born, he shared an unbreakable and extraordinary bond with his mother, Teresa Perry. Teresa and Dakota shared a great love of music. Their home was filled with instruments being played, singing, dancing, and constant movement—a place where Dakota and his friends were always welcomed, encouraged, and deeply loved. Dakota was Teresa’s greatest joy and purpose in this world and she gave him a beautiful life of love and adventures from the beaches of the Carolinas, California, to Jamaica and beyond. She was Dakota’s greatest supporter - always present, always recognizing and encouraging his unique talents, standing by him in every circumstance, and fostering his soul so lovely and wild.

Dakota was deeply loved by his grandmother, Kay Odom, whose home in the country brought him peace and joy. He treasured time spent on Noni and Teddy’s porch with his family, surrounded by animals, nature, laughter, and singing in Noni’s church for vacation Bible school. 

He also shared a special musical bond with his late grandfather, Clyde Perry, who led him in Boy Scouts, dueling guitars and singing “Life is Like a Mountain Railroad,” a song that held deep meaning between them. He is also lovingly remembered by his aunt, Bridget Timothy, who cherished his humor and the special connection they shared, and by his uncle, Chris. His cousins, Kayleigh Timothy, Christopher Timothy Jr., and Katherine Timothy, hold close the countless memories of summers spent together—filled with adventure, music, laughter, and deep bonds that grew stronger over time. Dakota shared a particularly close and playful connection with Katherine, while also forming meaningful connections with Kayleigh who liked to mother her younger cousin, and Jr. who shared a love of music. 

Dakota inherited an athletic strength, musical genius and a will to march to the beat of his own drum like his Father, Doug Gates. They played together and bonded over their mutual love of music. Dakota is also survived by the Braswell, Williford-Wright, Berry, Smith families, and other family members who cared for him with great love. 

Dakota’s life was one of movement, sound, laughter, and connection. He encouraged others to step beyond their comfort zones, to create boldly, and to live fully. His legacy lives on in the music he shared, the lives he touched, the joy he brought so effortlessly to others, and the way he made the world feel more alive. 

Dakota will be memorialized in a private service for family led by Pastor James Durham, followed by a Celebration of Life at Transformation Church on April 20, 2026 at 2pm where friends, family, and acquaintances are invited to join in celebrating our beloved Dakota and the extraordinary life he lived. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to either of these organizations who supported Dakota’s journey. Transformation Church or Indian Land Baptist Church.