Wanda Kay Long was the third child born in Birmingham, AL to James W. Long and Alice M. Carter Long on November 30, 1958. She was baptized at the age of nine at the Church of the Advent Episcopal Church and confirmed at St. Mark's Episcopal Church.

She graduated from A.H. Parker High School and Alabama A&M University.  She enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1991.

Wanda is survived by her long-time partner Kwon Smith, two sisters Rev. Carolyn Foster, Birmingham, AL and Stephanie Long, Pelham, AL, a brother James A. Long (Valerie), Brewton, AL, nephews Cleophus J. Higgins, Birmingham AL, James A.C. Long (Amanda), Brookhaven GA, Stephen Burroughs, Alabaster, AL, nieces Stareka Burroughs, Helena AL, Lauren Long Green, Calera AL (Reggie) , an uncle Henry Long, Oakland CA, an aunt Shelley Long, Tarrant AL, cousin JoAnn Sanders, Birmingham AL, and several great-nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.