Obituaries

An obituary is often the final public record of a person’s life, a lasting memory and tribute. And in today’s digital world, it is usually the first item to surface when a late person’s name is searched. That’s why we encourage families to take great care preparing this notice, preferably when their loved one can contribute to it.

The primary goal of an obituary is to make sure people know of your loved one’s passing and any services where they can pay their final respects. An obituary also allows your loved one to share meaningful parts of their life and their accomplishments for those who may not have known them at every stage. 

By including your loved one, you can be sure there will be no omissions or mistakes. This exercise also eliminates an emotional and difficult task at an emotional and difficult time. 

We will publish your loved one’s obituary on our website and handle placements in newspapers and online, based on your wishes and budget. Obituaries typically are billed by the word, and a photo can cost extra. Most newspapers include their digital websites and newsletters in the price. 

To help you get started writing, we’ve prepared a list of information typically included in an obituary. Keep in mind an obituary provides families a unique opportunity to control every word that is published about their loved one. 

• Start with the basics: name and age of your loved one, date they passed and the circumstances surrounding their passing, if desired. 
• Include details of their early life: when and where they were born, parents’ names, education, significant or colorful events during their growing-up years.
• Add jobs, careers or charitable endeavors as appropriate. It’s not necessary to include exact years at a position, but to present a picture of this part of their life. You may also mention hobbies, interests, passions and any other information that describes the person they were and the life they led. 
• Include all funeral details: date, time and location of visitation(s), services, interment or other events as appropriate. Be sure to specify if any of these events is limited — for example, interment will be private. 
• Prepare and review the names of family members who predeceased your loved one.
• Prepare and review the list of survivors and decide whether to include the names of partners, the names or just the number of grandchildren, etc.
• Include details on memorial contributions or any other requests or wishes of your loved one.
• Review examples of different obituary approaches and styles on our website as well as in local newspapers and digital sites.

Please contact us for more information or for assistance in preparing your loved one’s story. We know this is an important and lasting tribute and want to help make this process smooth and meaningful for all involved.