I’m still processing Julie’s passing, but I’ve had some time to reflect, so I wanted to share a few thoughts.

I had the privilege of working closely with Julie for almost 20 years, first at Navigant and later at Ankura, where we co-led the Atlanta office of our practice until I left a couple of years ago. Like any family, we didn’t always see eye to eye on everything, but we always respected each other and worked through our differences. As Ben mentioned at her memorial, Julie had this incredible ability to hit the “reset” button. Whenever I was stuck or frustrated, she’d offer me thoughtful, honest advice and always managed to make me feel better, especially after venting sessions in her or my office.

Julie was the ultimate professional, always taking her work seriously. But beneath that, she had a playful side—a kid at heart. I’ll never forget her love for not only Barbie dolls, but LEGOs. She once told me that she loved LEGOs because sometimes it was just nice to have someone tell you what to do, one step at a time. She also shared her fondness for the old Humongous Entertainment games—Pajama Sam, Putt-Putt, Freddy the Fish, and the like. When I mentioned my kids loved those games, she told me how much she enjoyed playing them with Luke when he was younger. In fact, she even gave my daughter one of her favorite games after it had been lost. That generosity was just one of the many ways Julie made people feel special.

The last time we exchanged emails was on December 9th, 2024. We talked about catching up in the new year over our favorite egg salad sandwich and potato salad at Rising Roll, just a couple of blocks from where I work now. I deeply regret that we never had that chance. It’s a stark reminder that time isn’t guaranteed, and we should live each day as if it could be our last.

I’ll miss Julie dearly. My heart goes out to Ben, Luke, and all of her family and friends. I’ll continue to keep them in my prayers.

Jerry Chang
February 3, 2025

Julie has been my neighbor for close to 7 years and was always kind when we crossed paths on walks. Ben, Luke, the 2 Wilsons and the rest of the family will be in my prayers. Love and Light to all who knew her. 

Celeste

Our thoughts and prayers are with Matt and Luke at this time. Our prayers are with Doug and Rich as well.
I think the last time we saw Julie was at her grandmothers funeral ( My Aunt) Julie was much like her grandmother, one of a kind.
I spent several summers with Julie’s Dad and uncle on Dale and Catherine’s farm and my sister spent some time while in college with Joanne (Julie’s Mom. Sweet, Sweet memories
God Bless you two!!!

Julie, you will be terribly missed.  I have wonderful memories of our walks around the neighborhood, Luke being our very first babysitter and your consummate kindness.  We love you all, The Tepp's

The staff of Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery would like to extend our most sincere condolence to the Delong Family. We would like to thank you for entrusting the care of your love one into our hands. Please remember you are not alone and we will always be here for you. 

Roswell Funeral Home and
Green Lawn Cemetery & Mausoleum

To a dear Barbie Friend for decades, I will miss your sweet calls to check in on Barbie and the wonderful friendship we shared over the years.  Godspeed to a bright light.  Though Julie is no longer with us, her spirit will always remain in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, you will be deeply missed."

Dear DeLong Family, 

I am writing to express my deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved Julie. I had the privilege of knowing and working closely with her for the past 12 years, and her loss is profoundly felt by all of us who had the honor of knowing her.

Julie was an extraordinary individual and professional and made an incredible impact on our industry and on my professional life. Her dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence were truly inspiring. She set a high standard for all of us, and her contributions have left an indelible mark on our industry.

Beyond her professional achievements, Julie was a person of great integrity, kindness, and generosity. She was always willing to offer guidance and share her wisdom. Her presence brought warmth and positivity to our any interaction, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working with her.

Finally, I hope to convey that her time at work and in profession may have led to sacrifices in her personal life. As a similarly dedicated professional that worries about my personal sacrifices for work, I hope you can take some level of comfort in the tremendous impact she had across the thousands of professionals that, like me, had the honor of knowing her, working with her, and becoming better professionals and people because of her. 

Please know that my and my family's thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the cherished memories that you shared with Julie and in the knowledge that her legacy will continue to inspire and influence many in our industry.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Gina Nese

Julie meant so much to me as her hairstylist for the last 23 years. She was a loyal client who always spoke of her son and how much she adored him and so very proud of all his  accomplishments. I will greatly miss the discussions on all things Barbie (which  would always brighten her mood if I asked), her desire and love to be at the beach and play endless hours of board games with her family. I know her cats (Wilma  and Walter !?)  will really miss her and the home office :( 
My deepest condolences to Ben and Luke and her close family. She adored all her family and worked so hard to bless those around her. 
Rest in Peace Julie… xoxo
Katy Davis

This is so sad I didn't know Julie as an adult I've seen her once when she was a little girl. Julie's dad was my first cousin and I spent a lot of time at their house when I was a child. Julie's grandma was the sweetest lady you'd ever want to know she loved Julie so much. hugs and prayers and lots of love for all the family she's really too young. Julie was one year older than my daughter.  Marty Davis Burke. Oskaloosa Iowa

I was attending a Women in Pharma Law conference in Boston this past summer, and unbeknownst to me, I was sitting next to my consultant, Julie DeLong. When we realized we had already known each other (it had all been through Zoom and phone calls), she invited me along to dinner that night with her and some other colleagues. I had fainted during that dinner, and Julie stayed with me the entire time at the emergency room. She was my angel - staying with me when I was in a different state away from family in a hospital for fainting! She never left my side and we talked of everything.  I am always forever grateful to you Julie -for being there for me. Thank you for being there by my side in a crazy time. My prayers are with you and yours.
Michelle Pinzon

Julie was a wonderful friend, work colleague and a real expert in her field. In my discussions with Julie, I have always enjoyed hearing about the growing Barbie collection, her son and husband, and her plans for the future. Julie was a dear friend and trusted advisor. I will miss our regular check-ins. The picture is from a team meeting 10 years ago and shows Julie sharing her knowledge, something she was always keen to do.

OBITUARY

Julie DeLong

February 19, 1959 – January 19, 2025

Roswell Funeral Home & Green Lawn Cemetery & Mausoleum

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