Friends of 20-year-old Dakota Humphries planning Churchville event to honor his life
CHURCHVILLE — Dakota Humphries was one of Autumn Showalter's closest friends. The two knew each other from school. She had known him since seventh grade.
"He was really funny," Showalter said. "Honestly, he was probably the most kindhearted person I think I've ever known. He was always helping people. He was very generous."
Humphries died Saturday night in a vehicle crash at Staunton's Gypsy Hill Park. The 20-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.
"It was scary," Showalter said. "Heartbreaking. Unfair. That's really the only way I know to explain it. Unfair."
According to the obituary posted online, Humphries was the son of Kirk and Cherish Humphries. He ran track and cross country at Buffalo Gap, where he was also a member of the FFA. Humphries also worked at Amazon.
"He enjoyed spending his time outside, hunting, fishing, farming, and working on his truck," the obituary said. "You would always see Dakota with a smile on his face. He never met a stranger and was often eager and willing to help others. Dakota oozed with enthusiasm and love for others."
Along with Michelle Cash, Showalter is helping organize an event to celebrate Humphries' life this Friday night at the Churchville Fire Department.
"Dakota loved his truck and all of his friends' trucks," Showalter said. "So we're planning to have all of his friends meet in Staunton and drive to Churchville."
She said they will let anyone who wants to speak about Humphries do so at the event. There will be photos of him displayed. Showalter said they are still planning the details of the event. It will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday. Reach out to Showalter on Facebook with ideas or questions.
"Family, Friends, and anyone who knew Dakota's sweet smile and personality is welcome," the post on Facebook read. "Please come show your love for this amazing young boy this Friday."
Per the obituary, the family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 at Coffman Funeral Home and a celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 22 at Calvary Baptist Church.
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— Patrick Hite is a reporter at The News Leader. Story ideas and tips always welcome. Contact Patrick (he/him/his) at phite@newsleader.com and follow him on Twitter @Patrick_Hite. Subscribe to us at newsleader.com.
This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Friends of Dakota Humphries, 20, planning Churchville event to honor his life
