Lela B. Long

Lela B. Long (1896–1951)

Lela B. Long was an American gospel songwriter remembered almost entirely for one deeply loved Christian song that has endured across generations of believers. Though very little is known about her personal life, her hymn continues to testify to a sincere and heartfelt devotion to Jesus Christ.

Born in 1896, Long lived during a turbulent era marked by war, hardship, economic uncertainty, and rapid social change. Yet the little that survives of her legacy points not to public prominence, but to quiet personal faith expressed through song.

She is best known for writing:

“Jesus Is the Sweetest Name I Know”

a gospel hymn that became widely cherished in churches, revival meetings, and personal devotional settings. The song was written before 1925 and expresses deep affection for the person of Christ, emphasizing His comfort, faithfulness, and incomparable worth.

The familiar refrain declares:

“Jesus is the sweetest name I know…”

The hymn reflects a simple but profound Christian conviction: that above every earthly relationship, sorrow, or experience, the name of Jesus remains precious to the believer. Its enduring appeal lies in its sincerity and accessibility. Rather than presenting complex theology, Long’s song offers personal testimony born out of faith and devotion.

Although detailed records of her ministry or life circumstances are scarce, the emotional depth of the hymn suggests a woman acquainted with suffering, uncertainty, and the need for divine comfort. Living through events such as World War I and the hardships of the early twentieth century likely shaped the spiritual perspective reflected in her writing.

The song became especially popular in gospel music traditions and was later performed and recorded by numerous Christian singers and church choirs. In many settings, only the refrain is commonly sung, though the original hymn includes additional verses expressing the believer’s trust and love for Christ.

Lela B. Long died in 1951, leaving behind little public biography but a lasting testimony through one beloved hymn. Her legacy illustrates how a single sincere expression of faith can outlive generations, continuing to encourage believers with the enduring sweetness of the name of Jesus.