Allen Funeral Home Obituaries

Welcome to Allen Funeral Home

When coping with the loss of a loved one, finding a comforting and professional environment to honor their memory is crucial. Located in the heart of Hurricane, WV, Allen Funeral Home provides a warm and dignified setting to celebrate the lives of the departed. With years of experience helping families through their most challenging times, Allen Funeral Home stands as a pillar of compassion and support within the community.

Our Facilities

Our premises at 2837 Main Street offer a peaceful and elegant backdrop for services of all types. At Allen Funeral Home, we understand that saying goodbye is a deeply personal experience, which is why we offer a variety of spaces to suit different needs and preferences. From our intimate visitation rooms to our spacious chapel, each area is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and serenity for friends and family members.

Personalized Services

We believe that every life is unique, and the celebration of that life should be just as individual. Our experienced staff at Allen Funeral Home is dedicated to helping you create a personalized service that truly reflects the personality and passions of your loved one. Whether it’s incorporating favorite music, creating a photo tribute, or including specific cultural practices, we are here to ensure that every detail is accounted for with the utmost respect and sensitivity.

Experienced Staff

Guidance from a knowledgeable and empathetic team can make all the difference during the process of planning a funeral. The professionals at Allen Funeral Home boast years of experience in the funeral industry, providing expert advice on everything from casket selection to burial options. Our staff is also well-versed in handling the necessary paperwork and logistical details, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience for the family.

Caring for Our Community

Allen Funeral Home believes in the value of community. We are not only a business but a vital part of our town, offering support and comfort to neighbors and friends in times of need. Our commitment extends beyond providing funeral services; we are here to offer a compassionate ear and a helping hand whenever our community calls upon us.

Pre-planning Services

Considering the future and the eventuality of passing is a difficult, yet important, task. Allen Funeral Home offers comprehensive pre-planning services to ease the emotional and financial pressures on loved ones. We provide guidance through the decision-making process, ensuring your wishes are documented and respected. By pre-planning with us, you offer your family the comfort of knowing your preferences while relieving them of the burden of making those choices during a time of grief.

Affordable Options

We at Allen Funeral Home understand that funeral costs can be a concern for many families. That’s why we offer a range of affordable options to accommodate various budgets without compromising on the quality of care and service. Our team is transparent about pricing, and we work closely with families to ensure services are not only respectful and dignified but also financially manageable.

Connect with Us

In your time of need, the Allen Funeral Home team is ready to lend our support and expertise. For inquiries, to schedule a visit, or to discuss funeral arrangements, please connect with us. Our doors are always open to those who require our services or seek our counsel. Honoring your loved ones and providing you with peace of mind is our most important commitment. You can reach us by phone, email, or by visiting our premises on Main Street, and we will be ready to assist you every step of the way.

Remembering Together

Above all, Allen Funeral Home is a place where memories are cherished, and lives are celebrated. We take great pride in creating an environment where families can come together to honor their loved ones with respect and love. Thank you for considering Allen Funeral Home to be a part of your journey through remembrance and healing. We stand with you, offering strength and consolation during this poignant chapter of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice of a person's death, typically published in newspapers and online platforms. It often includes a brief summary of the deceased's life, information about funeral or memorial services, and special acknowledgments. The tone can range from formal to personal and reflective.

Who typically writes an obituary?

Obituaries are often written by family members or close friends of the deceased, although sometimes funeral directors or professional writers may assist in crafting the content. In cases where the deceased is a public figure, a journalist may write the obituary.

What information is usually included in an obituary?

An obituary commonly includes the deceased's full name, age at death, date of death, a short biography, details of the surviving family members, funeral or memorial service information, any preferred charitable donations in lieu of flowers, and may also include a special message or a thank you section from the family.

Is there a difference between an obituary and a death notice?

Yes, there is a distinction. A death notice is a shorter announcement that merely states the fact of a person's death, often with the date and information about any planned funeral services. An obituary is more detailed, often including a biography and personal anecdotes, and serves as a tribute to the person's life.

How long after a death should an obituary be published?

Obituaries are commonly published within a week after a person's death to timely inform the community and to announce funeral or memorial service details. However, the exact timing can vary depending on family wishes, religious practices, and publication deadlines.

Where are obituaries usually published?

Obituaries can be found in print newspapers, online news websites, social media, funeral homes' websites, and specialized obituary platforms. Some families also choose to create dedicated memorial websites where they can publish the obituary and other tributes.

Can anyone submit an obituary?

While most obituaries are submitted by family members or the funeral home handling the arrangements, anyone close to the deceased who has pertinent information can submit an obituary. However, there may be costs involved, and submissions are typically reviewed before publication.

What is the usual length of an obituary?

Obituaries can vary in length from a few sentences to several paragraphs. Print obituaries might be shorter due to space constraints and cost factors, while online obituaries can often be longer and more detailed.

Are there any guidelines to follow when writing an obituary?

Yes, it's important to be factual, respectful, and to include key information such as the deceased's name, age, and dates of birth and death. Beyond that, conveying the personality, accomplishments, and the impact the individual had on others is often appreciated. Each publication might have its own specific guidelines regarding length and content, so it's wise to consult these before submitting.

How do you start an obituary?

An obituary can begin by announcing the death with respect, giving the name of the deceased, the date of passing, and optionally, the place of death. It commonly follows with details of the deceased's life, contributions, and information about the family.

What is an appropriate way to express condolences in an obituary?

Expressing condolences in an obituary can be done through sharing a personal anecdote, highlighting the positive traits of the deceased, or simply expressing the loss felt by the community and loved ones. Remember to be sincere and compassionate in your message.

Should obituaries include the cause of death?

Including the cause of death in an obituary is a personal choice. Some families prefer to be open about it, particularly if they feel it could serve as a cautionary tale or if the deceased was a public figure. However, many opt for privacy, and it is not a requirement to disclose this information.

Are photos included in obituaries?

Yes, photos are often included in obituaries, particularly in online formats. A picture can add a personal touch, help readers connect with the deceased, and serve as a visual reminder of the individual.

Can an obituary be updated or corrected after it has been published?

Obituaries published online can usually be updated or corrected with ease. However, print obituaries might only offer corrections in subsequent editions. If an error is made, it's important to contact the publication as soon as possible to address it.

What should you avoid including in an obituary?

It is advisable to avoid sensitive personal information that could lead to identity theft, such as the deceased’s home address, birth date, or mother’s maiden name. Also, refrain from including anything that might be considered disrespectful or contentious by family members or the community.

How does one handle multiple families, such as in the case of remarriage?

In complex family situations, strive to be inclusive and respectful of all. Mentioning both biological and step-family members, as well as significant others, is common. The key is to communicate clearly and possibly discuss with family members if there's potential for sensitivity.

Can obituaries be written for people who have been missing and presumed dead?

Yes, obituaries can be written for individuals who are missing and presumed dead, often after a considerable amount of time has passed or upon legal declaration of death in absentia. These obituaries should be written with sensitivity and care.

Is it acceptable to include humorous or light-hearted content in an obituary?

If it aligns with the personality of the deceased and is done tastefully, including humor can celebrate the individual's character. However, it is important to consider the feelings of all readers and family members.

Are there cultural or religious considerations to keep in mind when writing an obituary?

Yes, cultural and religious practices may influence the way an obituary is written and the information included. It's important to be mindful of and respect these customs, which may dictate certain expressions of grief, celebration of life, or privacy preferences.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, many people choose to write their own obituary for various reasons, such as ensuring accuracy, alleviating the burden on loved ones, or to inject personal touches into the remembrance. Such self-written obituaries are typically kept with other important documents to be published when needed.

How can I write a meaningful obituary for someone I didn’t know well?

Writing an obituary for someone you did not know well can be a challenge, but seeking stories and information from those who were close to the individual can help create a meaningful tribute. Focus on capturing the essence of their life, their relationships, and their impact on those around them.

What is the typical cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely, depending on the publication, the length of the obituary, and whether a photo is included. Some online platforms may offer free or low-cost options, while traditional newspapers can be more expensive due to print and space limitations.