Dakota Joyce McClelland

Dakota Joyce McClelland, 16 of Kirksville, MO passed away on October 8th, 2024 in Kirksville, MO. The daughter of Donald Kent McClelland II and Brooke Nicole Mason, Dakota was born on December 19, 2007 in Kirksville.

Dakota grew up in Kirksville and was a student at Kirksville High School, where she was loved for her good-hearted nature and infectious personality. Her presence had the unique ability to light up any room, earning her a special place in the hearts of friends, teachers, and family alike. Dakota's vibrant spirit was evident in her many hobbies; she enjoyed hanging out with friends, listening to music, dancing and singing along to her favorite songs, and enjoying moments captured on Snapchat. Whether it was taking photographs, going swimming at the lake, or jumping on the trampoline with her cousins, Dakota embraced life wholeheartedly.

A sweet and spirited young woman, Dakota cherished the simple joys—the taste of McChicken sandwiches with string cheese, taco bell, the laughs shared with her closest friends, and the tender moments spent doing hair and make-up. She treasured her family and friends deeply, connecting with them in ways that made everyone feel valued and loved.

Dakota leaves behind a network of family and friends who will dearly miss her. She is survived by her parents; her sisters, Carlie Davis and AnnaMarie Smith; grandparents, Mikel & Joyce Mason and Bob & Joyce Shackleton; great grandfather, Oscar Junior Mason Dakota; aunts and uncles, Mikel Mason II, Joshua & Rachel Mason, and Brandy Mason; as well as her cousins: Gauge Mason, Lainie Mason, Lidia Mason, Porter Mason, Alice Mason, Hali Claybrook, Heidi Claybrook, and Wyatt Claybrook. Dakota was preceded in death by her great grandparents, Glen & Alice West and Linda Mason; grandfather, Donald Kent McClelland I.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 12th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Funeral Chapel with Pastor Chad Stearman officiating. The visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. leading up to the service on Saturday. A Celebration of Life Dinner will be held after the service at the Family Center next to the funeral home.

Funeral arrangements in the care of Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Funeral Chapel.