Rylan Alexa French

Rylan Alexa French, age 12, of Forest, VA passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, at UVA surrounded by her loving family after courageously battling DIPG, an aggressive type of brain cancer.

Rylan was special the moment she was born being the first baby born at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, VA. Born on New Year’s Day in 2013, Rylan was a beautiful girl whose energy, quick witted humor, and kindness left an imprint on everyone who knew her. She was the cherished daughter of Taylor and Katie (Woods) French, and the beloved big sister to Kora (11), Addison (9), and Eli (9). She also shared an unbreakable bond with her loyal dog, Honey, who rarely left her side and was always ready to nap with her or on her, always keeping a close eye on her needs.

Rylan lived life with passion and purpose. She had a remarkable talent for softball, excelling as a skilled first baseman with a powerful swing. Her love for the game took her to all-star teams and, last September, she was honored with an invitation to join the UVA softball team, where she signed a letter of commitment. That team became an extended family, holding her in their hearts every step of the way. The girls invited her to as many games as she could attend, they came to her appointments during radiation, visited her when she was in the hospital and when she lived in Charlottesville during treatment, as well as giving her an official jersey and a spot in their locker room, including a plaque with her name and number on it. She always chose number 35 to honor her late Uncle Brandon.

Beyond the ballfield, Rylan had a creative and curious spirit. She loved skincare and makeup, always eager to try the latest products, often requesting stops at Sephora or Ulta at every opportunity. She enjoyed watching “Get Ready With Me” YouTubers, drawing inspiration from their styles and techniques. Music was another of her great loves, with favorites including Zach Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, and Morgan Wallen—whose concert she was thrilled to attend in Pittsburgh as her first. She also had a gift for writing and drawing, pouring her thoughts and imagination into words and she enjoyed expressing herself on paper.

Rylan’s wit, humor, and charm made her a joy to be around for friends and adults alike. She had an unwavering way of making each friend feel like they were her best friend, showing genuine care for their hearts and feelings. She was empathetic and inclusive to all and although quiet at times, she was a great listener and always got the inside joke. She was quick with a clever remark, always ready to be silly, sarcastic and have fun, and brought laughter and warmth wherever she went.

Her time with us, though far too short, was filled with love, laughter, and moments that will be cherished forever. Rylan’s light will continue to shine through the memories she created, the friendships she built, and the love she shared.

Rylan is survived by her parents, Taylor and Katie; her siblings, Kora, Addison, and Eli; her grandparents; her uncle and cousins; her extended family; countless friends; and her beloved dog, Honey.

A viewing for Rylan will be held on Friday, August 22 from 4 - 7 PM at Timberlake Church. Her funeral service will take place the following day on Saturday, August 23 at 11 AM with the reception to follow. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor her life, share memories and celebrate the joy she brought into the world.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Rylan’s memory specifically to the Chad Tough defeat DIPG foundation to help fund research abilities and the invaluable nurse navigators that helped this family extensively through this unimaginable process that took Rylan far too soon.

Some other incredible foundations that were extremely helpful in Rylan’s journey included The Alyssa House, The Yellow Door Foundation, The ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, Our Amazing Fighters, Make a Wish, The Claire Parker Foundation, Mustache for Kids, and several more.

The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks for all of the acts of kindness and support shown along this difficult journey. They would also like to thank the entire staff at UVA medical center, UVA pediatric oncology, pediatric neurosurgery, physical and occupational therapy as well as Gentle Shepherd’s Palliative Care Team for always making Rylan and her family feel valued, loved, and so very important always. They will be forever thankful for the kindness and care Rylan received.

“She’s sliding into heaven now and she is as safe as she’ll ever be.”

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.