Dakota "Kody" Michael Piper, a sweet and beautiful soul, passed away on January 21, 2024, at the age of 20. Born on March 29, 2003, in Plano, Texas, to James Michael Piper, Jr. and Melissa Anne (Ward) Piper-Barr, Kody's journey was one filled with love, laughter, and kindness.
Kody grew up in McKinney playing baseball, football and wrestling. He graduated from McKinney High School in 2021, embarking on his educational journey at Collin County Community College and, recently, Richland College in Dallas, Texas. Kody's deep understanding, extensive knowledge, and obsession for film were evident to all who knew him. He pursued his dreams at MPS Studios, a film studio in Dallas, where his love for movies found its expression.
Kody had a keen interest in health and nutrition and was passionate about fitness.
He found pure happiness in spending time with his beloved dog Kena, who he often called “baby girl.” Kody found joy in the simple moments and cherished the bonds of friendship and family.
Kody is survived by his father, Mick Piper, and stepmother, Beth Kassanoff-Piper, of Dallas, Texas; his mother, Melissa Piper-Barr, and stepfather, Tim Barr, of Aubrey, Texas; sisters, Mackenzie Piper, Madison Piper, Alexis Enriquez, and Abbi Kassanoff; brothers, Ryan Barr, Seth Kassanoff, and Ryan Kassanoff; grandparents, Myga Barr of McKinney, Texas, James Michael Piper, Sr. of Dallas, Texas, Dorothy Dee Piper of St. Louis, Missouri, Donald Ward Sr. and his wife, Debbie of St. Charles, Missouri; along with a host of other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Nick Barr, and his grandfather, Paul Barr.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 29, 2024, at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas. The service will be livestreamed at https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/dakota-kody-michael-piper. After the service, the recorded livestream will be available at the same link location.
Memorial donations in Kody’s name may be made to Mental Health America of Greater Dallas. https://mhadallas.org/