Whitney Achieng Omulo

Whitney Akothe Omulo, also known as "Miss America," passed away on November 27, 2024, after a battle with complications related to pneumonia that unfortunately escalated to a cardiac arrest. Miss America was born in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 1, 1999, where she brought light into the world. Whitney was born with Spina Bifida and hydrocephalus, which led to many health challenges in her lifetime, including paralysis that left her wheelchair bound. Per the doctor's prognosis, Whitney was to live for only 2 years, but by the grace of God, she courageously outlived the doctor's prediction and lived for 25 long years.

Whitney moved to the US with her family in 2002 and settled in Providence, Rhode Island. In 2004, she joined Mount Pleasant View Elementary School, a special education school in Rhode Island. Two years later, the family relocated to Marietta, Georgia, where Whitney attended Kincaid Elementary School and Simpson Middle School. Her teachers and friends adored the contagious laughter, joy, and radiant smile she brought to every classroom and school. Whitney's teachers often applauded her for the beautiful smile she shared with her peers.

In 2015, Whitney and her family moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where Whitney attended Kari Sue Hamilton Special School. She graduated in 2020 and earned the Citizen Award for her bright and joyous smile, which left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Whitney's family was her unwavering support system, which believed disability is not inability. Whitney's parents took her on all family vacations and adventures across America, thus earning her the name "Miss America." Throughout her life, Whitney was known for her deep love for music, which brought her immense happiness. Whitney's love for her friends, family, and music was unparalleled.

She is survived by her loving and devoted parents, Jackie and Kennedy Jeff, older brother Sidney, and younger sister Praise. She was a granddaughter to the late Japheth and Martha Odhiambo, Phanuel, and Hilda Omulo. She was a niece to Grace, Sammy, the late Risper, Lilian, Dr. Roslyn, Robert, Pauline, Dr. Linnet Campbell, the late Philip Omulo, Virginia, George, Ann, and the late Martin Omulo. Miss America also had several cousins.

Whitney's remarkable life will be honored with a funeral service on December 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m.

Miss America's memory will forever live in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her.

"Our Princess, we loved you so much, but God loved you even more."

May you rest in eternal peace in the loving arms of our Lord and God!

A funeral service for Whitney will be held 10:30 AM, Friday, December 13, 2024 with burial services following at Olinger Highland Mortuary & Cemetery, 10201 Grant St, Thornton, CO 80229. A reception gathering will take place immediately after, also at Olinger Highland Mortuary.

Please visit olingerhighland.com to share condolences and memories with the Omulo Family.