Tyler Bartlett Tallahassee FL Obituary – Remembering Tyler James Bartlett (1999–2024): Beloved Son of Sue and Cary Bartlett, Cherished Brother of Carson Bartlett, Devoted Partner to Gianna, and Treasured Friend to All, Dies Unexpectedly at 25
It is with shattered hearts and an overwhelming sense of sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of Tyler James Bartlett, a young man whose light touched the lives of many. Tyler departed this world unexpectedly at the age of 25 on April 27, 2024, in his hometown of Tallahassee, Florida, leaving behind a legacy defined by love, laughter, and a rare authenticity that endeared him to all who crossed his path.
Born in Tallahassee on September 6, 1999, Tyler was the eldest son of Sue and Cary Bartlett and a beloved big brother to Carson Bartlett. From his earliest years, Tyler was a radiant soul—full of curiosity, kindness, and a quiet strength that belied his youth. As a boy, he could often be found with his nose in a book, playing video games with his friends, or enthusiastically explaining the plot of his favorite anime series. Those who knew him in childhood describe a warm-hearted, brilliant, and imaginative boy who had an uncanny ability to make people laugh and feel seen.
As he grew into adulthood, Tyler only became more remarkable.
Academic Brilliance and a Lifelong Love of Learning
Tyler’s academic journey began in Tallahassee’s local schools, where his intelligence and curiosity set him apart early on. He was the kind of student who asked the deep questions—never content with superficial answers—and inspired those around him to do the same. Teachers frequently commented not only on Tyler’s intellect but also his humility, kindness, and willingness to help classmates.
He graduated with honors from high school and went on to attend Florida State University, where he pursued a degree in Information Technology. Tyler’s time at FSU was marked by academic achievement and personal growth. Professors described him as “brilliant, deeply engaged, and empathetic,” while fellow students called him “the glue that held the study group together.”
But Tyler’s college experience wasn’t defined by GPA or accolades alone—it was about people. He forged deep friendships, became a mentor to younger students, and approached campus life with the same energy and sincerity that defined every area of his life. From late-night conversations in dorm lounges to group projects and campus events, Tyler’s presence was comforting, uplifting, and impactful.
A Spirit that Shined Bright in Every Room
Those lucky enough to know Tyler Bartlett know he had a way of walking into a room and filling it—not with volume, but with light. He had a laugh that could lift your spirits, a wit that kept you on your toes, and a heart so generous it almost defied belief. He didn’t just listen; he heard you. He didn’t just support you; he stood by you.
Tyler had a unique gift: he could see what made people special and made sure they knew it. His conversations were never transactional. Whether he was sharing a dumb meme or discussing complex theories, Tyler gave you his full attention. He made you feel like the most important person in the world. And that’s exactly how he made everyone feel.
The Simple Joys: Gaming, Anime, and Furry Companions
Though his intellect and ambition were undeniable, Tyler also found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid gamer, particularly fond of Fortnite, where he and his close circle of friends would bond over late-night battles, inside jokes, and virtual triumphs. His screen name was a running joke among his friends, who admired both his sharp reflexes and his legendary sense of humor during gameplay.
Another passion of Tyler’s was anime, especially the long-running series One Piece, which he followed religiously. He loved the complex storytelling, the camaraderie of the Straw Hat Pirates, and the show’s celebration of loyalty, perseverance, and justice—all values Tyler held dear.
At home, Tyler was never alone. He shared his life with his beloved dog, Ernie, a goofy Labrador with an endless appetite for belly rubs and walks; and his two treasured cats, Miso and Hazel, who brought him quiet comfort and companionship. Friends often joked that Ernie was Tyler’s sidekick, never far from his feet during Zoom calls or late-night study sessions.
A Love Story for the Ages: Tyler and Gianna
Of all the relationships in Tyler’s life, none was more profound than his bond with his girlfriend, Gianna, with whom he shared the last four years of his life. Their love was something rare and beautiful—based not just on attraction, but on deep respect, shared values, and true friendship.
Tyler often told friends how grateful he was for Gianna, calling her his “home,” his “rock,” and his “future.” They made plans for everything: traveling to Japan together, adopting more pets, one day buying a home, and building a life rooted in joy and compassion. Whether it was something grand like a weekend getaway or something as small as cooking dinner together, Tyler treasured every moment.
Their connection was visible to everyone around them—a love marked by laughter, thoughtfulness, and a mutual admiration that was evident in every glance. In Gianna, Tyler found not only a partner but a soulmate.
Devotion to Family: A Son and Brother Beyond Measure
Tyler’s sense of loyalty and deep emotional intelligence was nowhere more evident than in his relationship with his family. As the eldest son of Sue and Cary, he held a special place in the family—protective, loving, and always present. He called his mom just to hear her voice. He talked tech with his dad over lunch. He left sticky notes of gratitude around the house during visits home.
His bond with his younger brother, Carson, was equally deep. Tyler was not only a brother but a best friend, mentor, and co-conspirator in countless family adventures. They built blanket forts together as children, stayed up late playing Minecraft, and supported each other through every milestone. Carson described Tyler as “the person I always wanted to be.”
Family dinners, game nights, holidays, and Sunday barbecues were incomplete without Tyler’s laughter, his stories, and his unmatched ability to make everyone feel seen and loved. He was the heartbeat of his family, and his absence is a loss too deep to measure.
Friendships That Last a Lifetime
Tyler believed in showing up. He never let a friend go through hard times alone. He was there with pizza when you got dumped, with a ride when your car broke down, with a hug when words failed.
To his friends, Tyler was a constant. He remembered birthdays. He followed up on job interviews. He cheered the loudest at your graduation. He made you playlists. He wrote handwritten notes. And he never let you forget your worth.
One close friend, Jacob, recalled, “Tyler made you feel like you mattered, even on your worst day. He didn’t fix everything—but he made sure you never felt alone. That was his magic.”
The Shock of Loss and the Echo of Legacy
Tyler’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the communities he touched. From former professors to neighbors, childhood friends to new acquaintances, the outpouring of grief has been as profound as the love Tyler gave throughout his life.
He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, authenticity, and deep human connection. His absence will be felt in quiet moments: when someone hears a One Piece theme song, boots up a game console, or reaches for the phone to share good news—only to remember Tyler isn’t just a call away.
Yet even in this pain, there is comfort in knowing how deeply he was loved, and how many lives he enriched.
A Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life Ceremony honoring Tyler James Bartlett will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Goodwood Museum and Gardens in Tallahassee, beginning at 3:00 PM, with a reception to follow. Family and friends are invited to wear Tyler’s favorite colors—navy and sage green—and to bring a photo, story, or note to add to a memory wall that will be shared with his family.
In lieu of flowers, the Bartlett family requests donations be made to Second Chance Animal Rescue of Tallahassee or the Tyler Bartlett Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will support students pursuing studies in Information Technology at Florida State University.
Final Words from Those Who Loved Him Most
Sue Bartlett, Tyler’s mother: “Tyler made every day better, just by being in it. I don’t know how to go on without him, but I will carry his light in my heart forever.”
Gianna, his girlfriend: “He taught me what love really means. Not the kind in movies, but the real thing—quiet, powerful, honest. I was the luckiest girl in the world.”
Carson Bartlett, his brother: “You were my hero, Ty. You always will be.”
Rest in Peace, Tyler James Bartlett
Though your time on Earth was far too short, your impact was immeasurable. You were a light in this world, and your memory will continue to shine through every