Dakota Leigh Free
Dakota Leigh Free “Koko”, 38, of Ashland, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Patricia “Penny” Free; her grandparents, Carolyn W. Gallagher, Earnest “Louie” Gallagher, William “Bill” Free, and Grace Free. Dakota leaves behind a family and community who loved her deeply, including her father, Steven S. Free; her sister, Casey Street, brother in law Mark Street; her best friend, soulmate, and chosen sister, Nikki Riner; and her faithful companion and best friend, Mdubs. She is also survived by her loving aunts and uncles: Michael Free (Sharon), Michelle Bennett (Dave), Earnie Gallagher (Sharon), Eddie Gallagher, and Chris Gallagher. She cherished her nieces, Montana Street, Sydney Street, Haillie Street, Kansas Street, Asia Douglas, Amya Douglas, Jazi Johnson, and Monet Valdiviez, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She is further survived by many great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Dakota embraced life with a free spirit and an open heart. She loved dancing, traveling, reading, and exploring history, a subject she was especially passionate about. Music was a constant source of joy throughout her life. She had an eclectic taste that reflected her vibrant personality and open-minded spirit. While The Flaming Lips held a special place in her heart, she also loved artists such as Eminem, The Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, the Grateful Dead, Johnny Rivers, and Tom Petty. From alternative rock and classic rock to hip-hop and everything in between, Dakota appreciated all different types of music and found happiness in the memories, emotions, and connections they brought.
In her younger years, she was known for always having a camera in hand, capturing memories and making everyone laugh. Her vibrant personality, infectious smile, and ability to bring people together made her the life of every gathering. Despite the challenges she faced, Dakota met life with remarkable strength, resilience, and optimism. She never allowed hardships to define her and remained a source of encouragement and positivity to those around her. She found great happiness in supporting her nieces, especially while watching them play softball, and she treasured every moment spent with family and friends.
Those who knew Dakota will remember her for her kindness, her adventurous spirit, her unwavering love for others, and the light she brought into every room she entered. Her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched, and she will be loved, missed, and remembered forever.
A Celebration of Life will be held on December 19, 2026. The time and location will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Dakota’s honor.
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