Dakota Paul was a life-long resident of Polk County and resided in Lakeland, Florida. He was born 25 August 1993 at Lakeland Regional to Norman Paul and Pamela McCord.

He worked as a plumber with Alderman's Plumbing and traveled throughout Florida working in Publix supermarkets.

Dakota was a Florida boy who loved going to the beach, fishing, and hanging out with his family and friends. This young man was a devoted friend, one you could always count on. He touched so many in such a short time, and everyone has a "Kota" story to share.

Dakota is survived by his mother, Pamela McCord and sister Mary McCord, both of Lakeland. He is also survived by Uncles Terry McCord and his wife Ruthie Buchanan of Plant City, Glen McCord of Lakeland, and Randy Brooker of Lakeland; Aunt Constance Prince-Brooker of Lakeland; Cousins Jordan Prince, Dusty McCord, Kaylee McCord, and Savannah Brooker, Boone Lee Baxter; Step sisters Tabitha Brookins, Samantha Johnson, and Tonya Jones; and Step brother Jeffery Spivey.

A memorial service for Dakota will be held on Thursday, August 12 at 1:00PM at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home, Serenity Gardens Chapel, 3350 Mall Hill Drive. Following the memorial service, a Celebration of Life will be held at from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Music Ranch in North Lakeland, 1920 Banana Rd, Lakeland, FL 33810. The family encourages those whoe are unable to attend the memorial service to please attend his Celebration of Life instead.