Vigil And Meal Train Planned For Westwood Family Who Lost 12-Year-Old Daughter

WESTWOOD, NJ — After a family in Westwood lost their 12-year-old daughter on Friday, the community has organized a meal train. A service has also been planned.

Superintendent of Schools Patrick McQueeney said in a letter to the community that there would be psychologists available at school this week even though school is out of session (see the full letter below).

A fundraiser and meal train set up by the community had amassed more than $18,000 in donations by Wednesday.

"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," organizers wrote.

"If you feel led to cook a meal, order a meal orpray for the family, please do! They thank you in advance." The meal train can be found here.

The Pascack Press identified the girl as Serenity Lynn.

A service to honor her life will take place Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the Blessing Funeral Home, 59 Main Street, in Ridgefield Park, noted the report. All who wish to pay their respects are invited.

“The outpouring of love, support, meals, donations, and prayers has been both comforting and overwhelming to the family,” McQueeney told the Press. “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... 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."

McQueeney released this letter to the community, including resources:

Letter From Superintendent Dr. Patrick McQueeney

Dear Westwood Regional Community,

As we continue to mourn the recent loss within our school community, we want to extend our heartfelt condolences and remind you that the well-being of our students, families, and staff remains our highest priority. Grief affects everyone differently, and it is completely normal to feel a wide range of emotions during this time. You are not alone—we are here for you.

In an effort to provide a safe, compassionate space for healing and reflection, the district is making support available to anyone in our school community who may need it. On Monday, July 28, 2025, members of our 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.

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...

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.

We also encourage families to explore the following resources, which offer additional tools for navigating grief, supporting children through emotional challenges, and accessing professional help:

WWRSD School Counseling Website (see the Community Resources section)

Bergen County Traumatic Loss Coalition Resources

We know that moments like these test the strength of a community, and we have no doubt that the care, empathy, and resilience that define Westwood will continue to shine through. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or your family needs anything. We are committed to walking beside you every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick J. McQueeney
Superintendent of Schools
Westwood Regional School District

Mrs. Kelly Riedel
Director of School Counseling
Westwood Regional School District