WESTWOOD, N.J. — The community continues to grieve the tragic loss of Serenity Lynn, a Westwood Regional Middle School student who passed away on July 25.
With the permission of the Lynn family, Westwood Regional School District Superintendent Dr. Patrick J. McQueeney has shared an update reflecting the family’s appreciation for the care they’ve received in recent days.
“The outpouring of love, support, meals, donations, and prayers has been both comforting and overwhelming to the family,” McQueeney said in a message to families and staff on July 29. “They are truly grateful for the strength of this community and the many ways people have come together to care for them and honor their daughter, Serenity.”
The superintendent’s statement adds, “We are reminded once again what it means to be part of a district and a community that stands together in moments of heartbreak.”
A service to honor Serenity’s life will be held on Thursday, July 31 at 7:30 p.m. at Blessing Funeral Home, 59 Main Street, Ridgefield Park. All who wish to pay their respects are welcome.
On July 28 we heard from an area mom who wrote to say her daughter is a grieving friend of “beautiful Serenity,” and she and their circle of friends felt “she was a loving and sweet young girl and I think they just want people to know that she is an immense loss in their lives. So many of the people in this community are searching for answers.”
We look forward to hearing from those who will speak at the service on Thursday.
‘We are heartbroken’
McQueeney told Pascack Press on Monday — a day the district set aside for support services — “We are heartbroken over the loss of one of our Westwood Regional Middle School students. On behalf of the entire school district, I extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
He said, “This tragedy has deeply impacted our school community, and we are profoundly grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support. Families, neighbors, and community members have rallied around one another and shown extraordinary compassion for the family and our students. We have also received heartfelt messages and offers of assistance from surrounding school districts and partner organizations. Many have reached out to me personally to extend their condolences and offer resources should we need them, and that generosity has meant a great deal to all of us.”
McQueeney said, “The strength, unity, and care demonstrated throughout Westwood, Washington Township, and the greater Bergen County area reflect the very best of what it means to be part of a strong and connected community. We remain committed to supporting our students, staff, and families as we continue to navigate this difficult time together.”
Monday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. members of the District Counseling and Special Services Departments, along with trained counselors from the Bergen County Traumatic Loss Coalition, will be available on-site to meet with students and staff. “Whether someone simply needs to talk, sit in a quiet space, or connect with a caring adult, support will be present,” said McQueeney.
He said administrators and staff members will be stationed at the front entrance to welcome and guide students and families into the building with warmth and care.
Support services offered for students, staff
Student Support Services
Date: Monday, July 28
Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Westwood Regional High School – Media Center
701 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington
Staff Support Services
Date: Monday, July 28
Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Westwood Regional High School – Faculty Room
701 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington
The superintendent said, “While this day is intended to provide an immediate opportunity for care and connection, we want to emphasize that support does not end here. Beyond this scheduled date, our school counselors and mental health professionals are always available to meet the needs of students, staff, and families whenever necessary. If you or someone you know needs help in the days, weeks, or months ahead, please do not hesitate to reach out. You are never alone in this.”
Community rallies
In the days following Serenity’s passing, a community-led Meal Train and fundraiser have helped provide comfort and support for the Lynn family. The effort, initiated by local resident Janice Charles, has drawn dozens of volunteers donating meals, gift cards, and funds to help ease the family’s burden.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the need to come together as a community for a family that is newer to Westwood and lost their 12-year-old daughter on July 25,” the Meal Train page reads. “If you feel led to cook a meal, order a meal, or pray for the family, please do! They thank you in advance.”
Organizers note that meals can be dropped off on Lake Street, and they list three adults in the home to cook for. The Meal Train website allows supporters to sign up to cook or donate funds.
How to help
The Meal Train remains active and can be found at: mealtrain.com — search for “Meal Train for Lynn family.” Information about meal drop-off times and donation options is listed on the page.
As the Lynn family navigates unimaginable loss, the Westwood community continues to wrap them in care, grief, and remembrance.
“We ask that you continue to keep the Lynn family in your thoughts and prayers,” McQueeney said, “as they navigate the days, weeks, and months ahead.”