Bryce Alexander Petitt

Bryce Alexander Petitt, 29, of Sterling, Virginia, passed away suddenly during the early morning hours of December 12, 2025. His passing has left family and friends in shock and with profound sadness. He was deeply loved.

Bryce was born on March 28, 1996, at Loudoun Hospital. He spent his formative years locally, surrounded by both immediate and extended family, sharing an especially meaningful bond with his grandparents. Bryce had an easygoing personality and the wisdom of an old soul. He valued making memories with family and friends. He enjoyed fall camping, backyard barbeques, and he especially cherished family vacations at Emerald Isle.

Bryce possessed an exceptional love of football and spent hours talking with his Grammy about the old football greats. He played tackle football, from Little League through high school, where he graduated from Park View in 2014. Bryce remained a devoted fan of the game, proudly declaring Tom Brady the undisputed GOAT. He enjoyed watching all games, college and professional, attending games with friends and family. Bryce also enjoyed weightlifting, walking his dogs, playing guitar, and listening to music (another great love).

After high school, Bryce moved on to college. He spent one semester at ODU and realized it wasn’t a good fit. He returned home for a semester or two then moved on to VCU to study exercise science. At the time Kristin, his love of 11 years, was living nearby in Richmond. They eventually moved in together and enjoyed time with their two dogs, Cooper and Rocco. Living in Richmond he discovered ZZQ – a locally owned and operated barbeque restaurant that served up the best brisket he’d ever had. This led to his love for grilling.

Bryce followed in his Grandad’s footsteps starting with burgers and, like his dad, moved on to chicken, chops and steaks. Who doesn’t love a good steak?! He was patient and perfected the art of grilling, preferring the flavor of grilling on his classic Weber charcoal grill. He also enjoyed his mother’s home cooking, with a particular fondness for her lemony chicken picatta. He was his mom’s expert taste-tester. With his distinctive palate, he could pinpoint anything that may have needed tweaking.

Known for his quick wit and steady presence, he showed up for those he loved without hesitation. As a young adult, Bryce found great purpose in caring for his grandfather, William Petitt whom he lovingly supported as a devoted caregiver. He graciously embraced this role with unwavering patience, kindness and respect. Bryce’s relationship with his grandad was a testament to his selfless nature and compassionate heart.

Bryce is survived by his two parents, Deidre Ferris (Petitt), Robert Ferris, and his sister, Shaina Ferris, all whom he loved without end. He also leaves behind a host of beloved extended family members and friends.

Bryce will be remembered for the love he gave freely, the laughter he shared, and the many lives he touched simply by being himself. Though his life was far too short, it was defined by kindness, loyalty, and quiet strength. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know and love him.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bryce's memory to Friends of Homeless Animals. The donation link is listed below.

A Celebration of Life service will be held for Bryce at the Demaine Celebration of Life Center in Sterling on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 1:00-4:00 pm. We encourage those close to him to share a memory or funny story.