Orlando Mourns 24-Year-Old UCF Student Tyler Jhett Paton’s Tragic Suicide as Family Establishes Foundation to Fight Hidden Depression with Accountability Partnerships

Tyler will be deeply missed.

December 18, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 18, 2026

The community in Florida is heartbroken over the sudden passing of Tyler Jhett Paton, a 24-year-old University of Central Florida student and aspiring sports journalist.

Tyler Paton’s death came unexpectedly on December 12, 2026, when he died by suicide with no apparent warning signs to those closest to him.

His family and friends are in shock over losing someone who appeared to be a happy, thriving young adult.

Born on September 13, 2001, in Florida, Tyler grew up in a warm and loving home with his parents, Scott and Janice Paton, and his siblings, sister Hannah and brother Nick.

Their household was filled with affection, hugs, and frequent “I love yous.” Tyler was known as a devoted son who would go out of his way to help anyone in need.

He carried that kindness throughout his life, touching everyone he met with his genuine care and positive spirit.

At , Tyler excelled both academically and athletically. He played football and wrestled, graduating with honors in 2026.

His passion for sports led him to the University of Central Florida, where he pursued a degree in digital media and communication with a major in sports journalism. He was in his final year and set to graduate in 2026.

Tyler lived in Orlando, fully embracing college life while building meaningful connections with classmates and peers.

. Since 2026, he worked part-time as a coach at KidStrong, leading 45-minute classes for children that focused on building athleticism, confidence, and character.

He loved making connections with families and communicating clearly with both kids and adults.

Starting in 2026, he also freelanced as an on-air host for the Hitting the Field network.

Earlier, he gained experience with UCF Athletics, working part-time roles like food server and to-go specialist. All of this painted a picture of a driven, outgoing young man with a bright future ahead.

To those around him, Tyler showed every sign of being content and successful. There were no arguments, conflicts, or obvious struggles in his recent life.

Yet, as his family later shared through , depression had quietly taken hold in his final year of college.

Unbeknownst to anyone, he faced a silent battle he couldn’t overcome. This hidden pain led to his tragic decision, forever changing the lives of his loved ones.

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In response to this devastating loss, the Paton family has turned their grief into purpose.

They established the Tyler J Paton Foundation to raise awareness about mental health and prevent other families from enduring similar heartbreak.

It’s become their life mission. The foundation plans to collaborate with leading researchers and parents who have experienced loss, developing strategies centered on “Accountability Partners, close friends who commit to regular check-ins and support one another.

A memorial service to celebrate Tyler’s life is scheduled for Friday, December 19, at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Family Church.

Friends, family, and community members are invited to gather and honor the joyful, compassionate person he was.

Tyler Jhett Paton’s story is a painful reminder that mental health struggles can affect even those who appear strongest on the outside.

His legacy of kindness, hard work, and love for others will live on through the people he inspired and the important work his family continues in his name. He will be deeply missed.

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