Today, March 10, 2025, would have been Tyler’s 26th birthday—a day that should be filled with laughter, celebration, and love. Instead, those who cherished him the most are left with a bittersweet mix of emotions: grief, longing, and gratitude for the time they were given with him.
For 24 incredible years, Tyler graced this world with his presence. He was a beloved son, a loyal friend, and a bright soul whose kindness left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His absence is deeply felt, and on a day like today, it’s easy to be consumed by the pain of missing him.
But today isn’t about sorrow. It’s about celebrating the beautiful life Tyler lived, the joy he brought to so many, and the love that continues to exist even beyond this earthly life.
A Father’s Love: A Bond That Never Breaks
Tyler’s mother, Chris Barlow, has shared a touching tribute—one that echoes the eternal love only a parent can understand. Her words, filled with both sorrow and strength, paint a picture of just how deeply Tyler was loved.
“Tyler, today you would be 26, and more than once, my eyes have filled with tears as I miss you even more than usual. It feels impossible not to be sad, to wish for just one more moment, one more hug, one more chance to tell you how much I love you, hearing you say ‘love ya’ just one more time. I will never stop praying for a miracle.”
“But as I sat here feeling sorry for myself, I realized today shouldn’t be about sadness—it should be a celebration of the 24 incredible years I was blessed to have you in my life. So today, instead of mourning, I will remember the good times, the laughter, and the memories we shared. I will remember all of the things I taught you and everything I learned from you. I will honor you by filling my heart with the love and happiness you brought into my life.”
“Happy Birthday, son. I love you, I miss you, and I carry you with me always.”
A Life That Brought So Much Joy
Tyler was the kind of person who lit up a room just by walking into it. His laughter was contagious, his smile could lift spirits, and his presence brought comfort to those around him. He had a heart full of kindness and a soul that was always willing to help others.
Those who knew him best will forever cherish the moments they shared with him—the deep conversations, the inside jokes, the spontaneous adventures, and the quiet moments of simply enjoying life together. Tyler had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued. He was the friend who would drop everything to be there when you needed him, the son who always made sure his family felt loved, and the kind of person who left an imprint on every heart he touched.
The grief of losing Tyler will never fully fade, because love that deep doesn’t just disappear. But as his mother so beautifully expressed, today should not be about sorrow alone—it should be a celebration. A celebration of the joy he brought, the love he gave, and the life he lived.
Happy Birthday, Tyler. You are loved, you are missed, and you are carried in our hearts forever.
