In Loving Memory of Dakota Shane Hollis
Dakota Shane Hollis, a devoted father, loving son, caring brother, and loyal friend to many, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in Houston, Texas, surrounded by his family. He was 36 years old.
Dakota was born on November 8, 1989, in Lufkin, Texas, to Gordon Shane Hollis and Felicia Ferguson Barker. He grew up in Trinity and Angelina counties, where his lively spirit and adventurous heart were known to everyone around him. Dakota attended Centerville-Groveton ISD before graduating from Central ISD with the Class of 2008.
After high school, Dakota chose a path of service and joined the United States Army. His time in the military took him to Alaska, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, where he served with courage and pride. Through his dedication, he earned several commendations, including the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Basic Aviation Badge. While in the Army, Dakota trained as an Aircraft Electrician—a skill that perfectly matched his natural curiosity and gift for firsthand work.
When he returned home, Dakota continued doing what he loved most: working with his hands. He found joy in fixing and improving anything mechanical—engines, motorcycles, gadgets—if it could be taken apart, Dakota could figure it out and put it back together better than before. He never shied away from a challenge and always had a project in progress.
Outside of work, Dakota loved the outdoors and the quiet peace it brought him. Whether he was fishing, working on his bike, or learning about new calibers of guns, he found happiness in simple things. But Dakota's greatest source of pride and joy was being a father to his daughter, Raylyn. She was the light of his life, and every moment spent with her filled his heart.
Dakota is preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Gordon Ray Hollis, and by his maternal grandparents, Jesse and Emily Ferguson.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Raylyn Hollis; his father, Gordon Shane Hollis; his mother, Felicia Barker and husband, Josh; his brother, Gordon Chase Hollis and wife, Whitney; his sisters, Halye Schmidt and husband, John, and Sydne Hollis and husband, Daniel; his paternal grandmother, Pamela Barbe and husband, Roy. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and loved ones who will always cherish his memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Cartwright Memorial Chapel of Groveton Funeral Home in Groveton, Texas, with Brandon Alsbrooks officiating.
Dakota will be remembered for his brave spirit, his laughter, his loyalty, and the love he poured into those who meant the most to him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.