CHARLESTON, South Carolina — Julian Mills Fite, the son of journalist Tessa Spencer, died by suicide on July 28, 2025, at the age of 24. Born in Charleston on August 30, 2000, Julian is remembered through his family’s obituary as a creative, kind, and generous young man whose interests included photography, music, poetry, and performance art.

His death brought profound grief to his family and friends. In the years since, his mother has spoken publicly about the challenges of trying to secure mental-health care for him and has worked to raise awareness and improve support for young people and families experiencing similar struggles.

Remembering Julian Mills Fite

Julian was born on August 30, 2000, in Charleston, South Carolina. He graduated from Ashley Ridge High School in 2018 and briefly attended Trident Technical College, where he explored his interest in film.

Creativity played an important role in his life. He enjoyed photography, making music, writing poetry, and participating in local spoken-word events. His obituary also remembered his sense of humour, energetic personality, kindness, and loyalty to the people closest to him.

His family remembered him as someone who brought laughter and individuality into their lives. Those personal qualities, alongside his artistic interests, remain an important part of how he is remembered.

Julian Fite’s Mental-Health Struggles and Death

Julian died by suicide on July 28, 2025, at age 24. His mother later described his long struggle with mental-health challenges and the difficulties the family experienced while trying to obtain appropriate care.

In a March 2026 report by the South Carolina Daily Gazette, Spencer told state lawmakers that Julian had previously experienced suicidal crises. She described trying to get him help when he was an adult but encountering limitations because he did not consent to treatment.

Her account brought attention to the difficult circumstances families can face when an adult loved one is experiencing a serious mental-health crisis but does not agree to care.

The circumstances of Julian’s death should be discussed with sensitivity. His life was much more than the illness he experienced or the way he died.

Tessa Spencer’s Advocacy in His Memory

Following Julian’s death, Spencer began speaking publicly about the need for stronger mental-health support for young people and their families.

She has discussed the challenges of helping a young adult who may be at risk while navigating laws that protect an adult’s right to make personal medical decisions. Her experience also became part of discussions among South Carolina lawmakers about possible changes to mental-health decision-making during emergencies.

Spencer’s advocacy has focused on earlier intervention, family support, mentorship, and making mental-health resources easier to access. The work reflects her effort to honour Julian’s memory by helping other families facing difficult circumstances.

Family and Loved Ones

Julian’s obituary named his mother, Tessa Spencer; his stepfather, Reginald Burton; his father, Lewis Fite Jr.; and his brother, James Fite, among the family members closest to him.

His family and friends continue to remember his creativity, generosity, humour, and the relationships he built throughout his life.

Obituary and Memorial Information

Julian’s obituary was published in September 2025 through Simplicity: Lowcountry Cremation and Burial Services in North Charleston. The notice provides a remembrance of his life and an opportunity for friends and loved ones to share condolences.

Readers seeking the full memorial notice can consult the funeral home’s published obituary or its listing through Legacy.

A Legacy of Creativity and Advocacy

Julian Mills Fite’s life cannot be reduced to the circumstances of his death. He was a young man with artistic interests, personal ambitions, family relationships, and friendships that mattered deeply to him.

His story has also helped bring attention to the challenges faced by families seeking mental-health care for young adults. Through his mother’s public advocacy, his memory remains connected to efforts to encourage understanding, earlier intervention, and better support for people experiencing mental-health difficulties.

Our condolences go to Tessa Spencer, Julian’s family, friends, and everyone affected by his loss.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes and is based on Julian Fite’s published obituary and reporting about his mother’s public advocacy. Information about mental-health care and legislation should be checked against reliable, current sources.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in emotional distress in the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If there is immediate danger, contact emergency services.