Gretna Mourns the Loss of Whitney Lynn Long, 32, a Compassionate Soul Remembered for Her Light and Love
The city of Gretna is mourning the devastating and untimely loss of Whitney Lynn Long, a beloved daughter, sister, friend, and community member who passed away far too soon at the age of 32. Born on February 3, 1993, Whitney’s radiant spirit and compassionate heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who cherished her, as the community comes together to remember a woman whose life was defined by kindness, purpose, and boundless love.
A Life of Purpose and Compassion
Whitney was more than just a vibrant presence — she was a force of nature fueled by empathy, creativity, and a fierce dedication to others. She grew up in Gretna, Louisiana, and from a young age, she displayed a strong passion for service and a natural ability to uplift others in their time of need. Whether volunteering at local shelters, mentoring youth, or organizing food drives, Whitney made it her mission to leave the world better than she found it.
A proud graduate of West Jefferson High School and later the University of New Orleans, Whitney pursued a career in social work, where she found her true calling. She worked tirelessly to support vulnerable individuals and families, advocating for the underserved and ensuring every person she worked with felt seen, heard, and valued. Her colleagues admired her unwavering commitment to justice and her clients’ well-being, often saying that Whitney brought sunshine into the darkest places.
Her compassion extended far beyond her professional life. She was the friend who always showed up — the one who sent check-in texts just because, who remembered birthdays, and who dropped everything to help someone in crisis. Her laughter was infectious, her hugs comforting, and her advice wise beyond her years.
Remembering Whitney
Whitney’s friends and family describe her as a light in their lives — the kind of person who made even ordinary moments feel magical. She had a love for music, poetry, and New Orleans culture. She was known for her warm smile, eclectic style, and her ability to make anyone feel at home in her presence.
“Whitney had this amazing way of making you feel like you were the most important person in the room,” said her best friend, Janelle Morris. “She listened deeply, loved fiercely, and lived intentionally. Losing her feels like losing a piece of the sun.”
Her mother, Angela Long, shared heartfelt words that captured her daughter’s essence:
“Whitney wasn’t just my child — she was my hero, my joy, my greatest blessing. She taught me to love harder, speak softer, and live fully. I will miss her every moment for the rest of my life.”
A Community in Mourning
The Gretna community has come together in the wake of Whitney’s passing, holding vigils, sharing memories, and offering prayers for peace and healing. Friends, former classmates, coworkers, and neighbors have flooded social media with tributes, describing Whitney as a “beautiful soul,” a “true angel,” and “one of the kindest people to walk this earth.”
Local organizations where Whitney volunteered have pledged to honor her memory by continuing her work in the community. A scholarship fund is also being established in her name to support students pursuing careers in social work and community advocacy.
Funeral Arrangements
A celebration of Whitney Lynn Long’s life will be held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Gretna. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:30 a.m. Family, friends, and members of the public are welcome to attend and share in honoring her memory. She will be laid to rest at Westlawn Memorial Park in a private family ceremony.
The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to local shelters and youth advocacy programs — causes that Whitney held dear and championed throughout her life.
Though Whitney Lynn Long’s time on Earth was brief, the impact she made is immeasurable. Her love, compassion, and commitment to others will live on in the countless lives she touched. As the Gretna community mourns her loss, they also celebrate a life lived with courage, heart, and unwavering kindness. Whitney will be remembered not for the years she lived, but for the immeasurable love she gave and the light she brought into the world.