Dakota Shane Walsworth

If you ever heard a deep, soulful voice in the distance — one that seemed far too rich to come from such a modest frame — you might have been lucky enough to hear Dakota Shane Walsworth. Born February 20, 1991, in Jonesboro, Louisiana, Dakota lived his 35 years with an open heart, a ready smile, and a guitar never too far from reach.

Dakota never met a stranger. Whether you knew him for five minutes or five years, he made you feel like you belonged. He was the first to show up when help was needed — no matter the hour, no matter the task — and he gave of himself without hesitation. His voice, both in song and in spirit, was a gift. From a young age, that deep, resonant tone surprised everyone who heard it, and when paired with his guitar, it could fill a room with warmth, joy, and connection.

He loved deeply and carried a quiet longing to be part of something bigger than himself. If you welcomed him in, he gave you everything he had. In recent years, when Dakota wasn’t working or lending a hand on a project, you could find him by the water with a fishing pole in hand. Morning, afternoon, or just before dark, he’d be there — patient, focused, and ready to share the play-by-play of his catches, complete with photos. Fishing became even more special when he shared it with his son, David. The two could spend hours together by the water, swapping stories, laughing, and simply enjoying the quiet bond that only the two of them will ever know.

Dakota also loved to play pool, a passion he shared with his mom. They often played together at home, and whenever she made a long shot, he would burst into song — belting out “Long Shot Sally” to the tune of Long Tall Sally — complete with a little dance. Those games, filled with laughter and music, are now treasured memories. Dakota’s animated, energetic personality filled every room he entered. His heavy heel-toe stomps that once echoed loudly through the house; will now be deafening by their absence. Fortunately, David has inherited that same spirited stomp, carrying a piece of his father forward.

Dakota is survived by his beloved son, David, the light of his life; his loving parents, Deanna and Jeff; and his dad and stepmom, Bubba and Amy. He also leaves behind his grandmother, Donna Hainline — whom he always introduced as his best friend — a title she truly earned through her unwavering love for him. He is also survived by his grandfather, David Walsworth, and his siblings Payton, Kaidon, Kennedee, Mariah, Gabe, Emma, and Chloe.

Dakota had four aunts and one uncle: Sandy, Mike, and Lynn of Louisiana; Lisa of Connecticut; and DJ of Missouri, who showed him an unconditional love of inclusion by taking him to rodeos, fishing, and cooking for him.

A special place in Dakota’s heart was held for three young friends — Emma, Ethan, and Kendall — whose presence brought him joy and laughter.

Dakota was preceded in death by his grandfathers, David McDole and Randy Hainline, and his grandmother, Avis Walsworth

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on June 6, 2026 with a visitation preceding the service at 1 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home in Ozark, MO. The family invites you to share in this and honor him by remembering to spend time outdoors with someone you love or share a song with a friend.