MANASSAS, Va. — The Manassas community will come together this weekend to remember a young life taken too soon by a mean strain of the flu.
Joshua Long, 16, died Sunday night at Children’s Medical Center in Washington after complications with the virus. He was a student at Manassas’ Osbourn High School.
Now students, staff, and family members will hold a candlelight vigil for Long at the school on Friday night. A viewing for the young boy will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, and a funeral the following day at 1 p.m. – both at Pierce Funeral Home in Manassas, according to a Facebook page set up by family and friends.
On a Facebook page filled with personal condolences, family and friends gave support for Long’s mother, Michelle.
“I just can’t stop thinking about Joshua Long…he was taken way too young. Please keep Praying for his Mom, Michelle Long, and his Grandmother, Donna Rose Ritenour Hall,” stated Lois Howell-Shafer.
“I am so, so, so sad for my friend Michelle Long and her family. Josh will be truly missed and will always be an angel in our hearts,” stated Tricia Crabill DeMotte, of Manassas.
A fundraiser will be held this Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. at Mackey’s American Pub in Manassas. Donations will be accepted, and raffles and door prizes will be given away, and a DJ will also play music, according to a flier for the event.
