Donna Long, a remarkable woman who lived a life filled with adventure and compassion, peacefully passed away at the age of 86 on June 4, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Donna was born in 1937 in Manhattan and later moved to Beverly Hills with brothers, Gordon and J. Paul Getty, and her mother, the renowned silent film star Ann Rork Light, who introduced her to a passion she cherished throughout her life, horseback riding. She graduated from Dominican High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Peabody College. Donna pursued further studies at Vanderbilt University and Sonoma State College, obtaining her master's in special education. In 1945, Donna visited a Dominican convent in San Rafael to immerse herself in Catholic theology while simultaneously honing her horseback riding skills. She went on to achieve championships in both English and Western styles, travel to competitive events across the USA and fostered many cherished relationships along the way. She established a riding school and rescue center for abandoned horses, demonstrating her respect and awe for horses and the exceptional relationships that could be fostered between them and humans, which she helped many to develop. In 1957, Donna married Douglas F. Woods, and together they raised three children. In 1972, she relocated to San Francisco to be closer to her brother Gordon Getty, who she loved very dearly. She moved to Palm Beach in 1976, where she established herself as the associate editor of the Palm Beach Chronicle, unveiling her skill set in writing, which was only the beginning of her many creative endeavors. In the late 1980's, she honed her photography skills and travelled with National Geographic, capturing rare and inspiring images across the world. In 2003, Donna would take her first drawing lessons at the Armory Art Center where she received a first prize for her painting, which led to her exhibits at Festival del Sole in Cortona, Italy and Serge Sorokko Gallery in San Francisco. Donna was involved with The Red Cross for many years, raising funding and as a hands-on volunteer. She opened and manned local shelters in Palm Beach County during cold weather and hurricanes. She would often leave her home for weeks to help flood and earthquake victims. Donna played an active role in fundraising events for esteemed organizations such as The Red Cross, Dreyfoos School of the Arts, St. Mary's Hospital, Heart Ball, Center for Creative Education, Armory Art Center, Island Cats, World Wildlife, Noetic Sciences, and National Geographic. Donna's enthusiasm for creativity and her one-of-a-kind spirit extended beyond her artwork and community service. She was widely recognized as a socialite, spontaneous world traveler, and professional photographer. Her love for animals was evident in her numerous rescues of dogs and cats, as well as her instrumental role in establishing a horse rescue in Santa Ynez, California. Donna Long is survived by her beloved brother Gordon Getty, her children Diantha Woods, Douglas Rudolph Woods, and Wendy Fritz, her son in law William Fritz III, as well as her grandchildren Margaux Fritz, William Fritz, and Jack Woods. She also leaves behind nieces and nephews Mark Getty, Aileen Getty, Ariadne Getty, Peter Getty, and Billy Getty.Donna's legacy as a compassionate advocate, a creative force, and a loving presence in the lives of those she touched will forever remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing a truly unique and influential woman.

Posted online on June 09, 2023
Published in Palm Beach Daily News