‘Be a Kyler’: Teen’s Kindness Legacy Lives On

A Tennessee family honoring the life of their son is hoping his legacy continues to inspire kindness, compassion, and safer driving for years to come.

Kyler Gatica, a Wilson County teen remembered for his kindness and servant’s heart, is now being honored with a memorial highway designation along Interstate 840.

Governor Bill Lee recently signed legislation creating the “Kyler Gatica Memorial Highway,” which will mark a stretch of Highway 840 between mile markers 53 and 55.

Remembered for How He Lived

Kyler was killed in a car accident in October 2024 while returning home from a family vacation with his parents.

Now, as the teen would have graduated high school this year, his family says they are focused on preserving the example he set during his life.

“He was so special and so loved in our community,” his mother, Stephanie Gatica, said.

Friends and family members describe Kyler as someone who naturally made others feel included and valued.

“Kyler was known as the kind kid at school,” Stephanie said. “He was always a friend to kids that sometimes had a harder time making friends.”

‘Be a Kyler’

Following his death, the phrase “Be a Kyler” has become a message of encouragement throughout the community — a reminder to choose kindness, empathy, and compassion in everyday life.

The family has also established a foundation in Kyler’s memory to continue promoting those values.

In addition, memorials throughout the community — including a “buddy bench” at West Elementary School — have been created to honor his life and impact.

A Message About Kindness and Safe Driving

Kyler’s parents say the memorial highway is not only about remembrance, but also awareness.

They hope drivers who see the signs will think about road safety and the importance of paying attention behind the wheel.

“To pay attention, to drive safely, and just treat the road like you’re driving behind your loved ones,” Stephanie said.

His father, Matt Gatica, also hopes the memorial inspires people to carry kindness forward in their own lives.

“Be kind to others. Treat them like you want to be treated because kindness in even the smallest forms can change someone’s life,” he said.

A Legacy That Continues

A formal ceremony and installation of the memorial highway signs are expected later this year.

For the Gatica family, however, the true goal is bigger than a sign.

It is ensuring that Kyler’s compassion, kindness, and love for others continue living on through the people he inspired.

And along Highway 840 in Tennessee, his name will now serve as a lasting reminder to slow down, drive carefully, and choose kindness.