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About Britton-Summers Funeral Home
Britton-Summers Funeral Home, located at 4 Church Street, Westborough, MA, 01581, has been a cornerstone of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the Westborough area, the funeral home has built a reputation for its dedication to helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones with dignity and respect.
A Legacy of Compassionate Care
At Britton-Summers Funeral Home, the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. That's why they are committed to providing exceptional care and support to families during this challenging time. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll be greeted with kindness, empathy, and understanding. Their team of experienced funeral directors and staff will guide you through every step of the funeral planning process, ensuring that your needs are met and your wishes are respected.
Britton-Summers
Address: 4 Church Street, Westborough, MA, 01581
Phone Number: 1-508-366-4717
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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries
Helen J. Barton - October 18, 1923 - November 20, 2019
Departed: 11/20/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Helen J. Barton, 96, of Westborough passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at the Coleman House in Northborough. She was the wife of the late Luke P. Barton.Born in Westborough, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Anastasia (Gebhart) Goggin. She was educated in Westborough schools and was a 1941 graduate of Westborough High School. She was known for her loving heart, her willingness to take in anyone who needed it, and for her never-ending support of her children and grandchildren.Helen was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and was a member of The Women of St. Luke’s and St. Luke’s Senior Adults. She was also a member of the Red Hat Ladies and was an avid Bridge player.She is survived by her children, Francis P. Barton and his wife, Maureen, of San Jose, CA, Eileen A. Grimley and her husband, Daniel, of Grafton, William J. Barton of Westborough, Constance A. Barton of Cambridge, Lawrence E. Barton and Anne Wheeler of Shrewsbury, Terrance A. Barton and his wife, Kim, of Westborough and Nancy J. Serapiglia and her husband, Michael, of Northborough; 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; as well as close family friends Barbara Rabinowitz, John and Joanne Serapiglia, and Gabe Boire.She was the mother of the late Daniel Barton, Michael Barton and Edward Barton.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 25, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough are Sunday, November 24, from 2 to 5 P.M.
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Mary C. Cunning - September 30, 1933 - October 22, 2019
Departed: 10/22/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Mary C. Cunning, 86, of Rutland Town, Vermont, formerly of Grafton and Westborough, passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2019 at the Meadows of East Mountain in Rutland Town. She was the wife of the late William F. Cunning.Born in Boston, she was the daughter of the late James and Josephine (Sponcie) McCarthy and was educated in Boston schools.Mrs. Cunning was employed as a secretary for TJX Corporation prior to her retirement.She was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church in Westborough and was an active member of the Grafton Senior Center. She was a published poet and enjoyed writing.She is survived by two children, William Cunning and his wife, Kathie, of Cheshire, MA and Mary J. Costa and her husband, James, of Rutland Town, VT; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.In addition to her husband she was predeceased by two sons, Sean Cunning and Matthew Cunning.Her funeral service will be held on Monday, October 28, at 10:00 A.M. in the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery. There are no calling hours.
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Jean S. Copeland - May 31, 1934 - September 04, 2019
Departed: 09/04/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Jean S. Copeland, 85, of Northborough, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 4, 2019, at her home surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife of 58 years to the late John S. Copeland who passed away in 2012.Born in Chicago, IL, she was the daughter of the late John Joseph Henry and Anna Barbara (Pecelunus) Staken. She was raised and educated in Illinois and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois Institute of Technology.Prior to retirement, Mrs. Copeland was employed as a substitute teacher, office support for a software company, child care taker, and owner of a pizza restaurant.She had been a member of the Bahá'í faith, teaching the essential worth of all religions, and the unity and equality of all people.Jean loved baking birthday cakes for her grandchildren and making her favorite pumpkin pie and apple strudel. She also enjoyed sewing, arts and crafts, card making, jewelry making, reading, listening to John Denver and Peter, Paul & Mary Music, and was a Star Wars enthusiast. Most importantly, she cherished the time she spent with her family and friends.She is survived by her three children, Jeff Copeland and his wife Mary, of Jefferson, Jerri Holland and her husband Jim, of Hopkinton, and Jeanine Deranin of North Grafton; her grandchildren, Theresa, Natalie, Luciana, Anthony, Johanna, Matthew, Dominic, Alexxa, Calvin, Chelsey, Nick and Nate.She was the mother to the late June Kangas. She is also predeceased by her siblings, John Joseph Staken and Edward Staken.A funeral procession will be formed on Monday, September 9, at 10:15 A.M. at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough followed by a graveside funeral service at 11:00 A.M. in Pine Grove Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home are Sunday, September 8, from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
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Rita Lee - October 05, 1920 - August 22, 2019
Departed: 08/22/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: A. Rita Lee of Westborough, Massachusetts passed away Thursday morning, August 22, 2019 at home with family at the age of 98 years old. She leaves a daughter, Pamela A. and her husband Brian P. Magrane of Lynn, MA and a daughter in law, Susan Lee Hom and her husband, Harry of Springfield, MO. She was “Rickey” to her six grandchildren: Brian Hom and his wife Cheryl of Springfield, MO; Erin Magrane and her partner David Calnan of Lynn, MA; Cara Magrane and her husband Jose Gonzalez of San Antonio TX; Kathleen Magrane and her partner Graham Scott of Fallbrook, CA; Megan Magrane-Mulcahy and her husband Christopher of Scituate, MA; and Andrew Hom and his wife Halle O’Neal of Edinburgh, Scotland. She also leaves ten great grandchildren: David and his wife Aughtum, Liam, Sophia, Julian, Sean, Christopher, Quinn, Henry, Atticus and Abigail. Rita also leaves many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. She is pre-deceased by her husband of 23 years, Frank D. Lee, a son Vincent B. “Vinnie” Lee who was killed in action during the Vietnam War in 1969, three brothers: Garrett J. Burke, J. William Burke and John L. Burke all of Andover, MA.Born in Charleroi, PA to the late Michael A. and Sarah J. (McGlynn) Burke. Rita was a graduate of St. Patrick’s High School in Lawrence (class of 1938). She then attended Mount Saint Vincent College in Halifax, Nova Scotia and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Lesley College in Cambridge, MA (Class of 1942). Rita lived in Andover most of her life before moving to Westborough in 1956 when she and her husband Frank founded the Lee Funeral Home. After Frank’s death in 1965 the funeral home was renamed Lee-Summers Funeral Home. Then in 1981, it became the Britton-Summers Funeral Home.Mrs. Lee was a Gold Star Mother, very active in local, civic, and volunteer groups in Westborough; a member of the church of St. Luke the Evangelist, its Martha and Mary Group, and its Senior Adult Group. She was a 50-year member of the Westborough Women’s Club, the Westborough Historical Society, the Westborough Food Pantry, and the Lesley College Alumni Association in Cambridge, MA.Rita was hired in 1968 at New England Power Service Company in Westborough and retired as a Senior Personnel Clerk in 1984. She remained actively employed during her retirement at the Glass Heron and Westborough Town Hall.The family would like to thank the staff of Summit Eldercare of Grafton for their ongoing love and support. Rita was a precious and beloved matriarch to a large and loving family. She was a loyal friend and a cherished member of her community and all who knew her are blessed to have had her unique spirit enrich their lives.Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2019 from 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church Street, Westborough.A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 28, at 10:30 A.M. in the Church of St. Luke the Evangelist, 70 West Main St., Westborough. A collation will be held immediately following the funeral Mass. Her burial in St. Augustine Cemetery in Andover will be private.
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Dong Jae Hwang - August 02, 1953 - May 16, 2019
Departed: 05/16/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Dong Jae Hwang, 65, passed away Thursday, May 16, 2019, at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester.He was born August 2, 1953, in Gosung, South Korea, to Namdoo Hwang and Bunjo Park.He worked in the medical technology field for the most of his career, where he found joy in helping people and solving problems. He was proud of his work with the Korean Democratic Party and striving for positive change.Dong Jae loved his family so much and achieved to live his life to the fullest.He is survived by his two daughters and two sons, Rachel, Deuk, Andy, and Eunyoung, and his many siblings and cousins.Family, friends, and others whose lives Dong Jae touched are invited to his calling hours on Sunday, May 19, from 5 to 8 PM in the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, to reminisce, grieve, support each other, and chat.
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Florence G. Gareri - September 22, 1922 - May 02, 2019
Departed: 05/02/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Florence G. Gareri, 96, formerly of Westborough, passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at Care-One in Millbury. She was the wife of the late Clement A. Gareri, Sr.Born in Milford, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mabel (Foley) Boucher. She was raised and educated in Upton and was a 1941 graduate of Upton High School.Florence retired from the Westboro Public Schools after serving 13 years in the Fales School kitchen. Before that she worked at Bay State Abrasives and at the employee lunchroom at the Westboro State Hospital.Florence was a devoted wife and mother, raising a family of four boys in Upton and in Westboro. She was always active in her son’s activities whether it was serving as a den mother, helping out at school, or simply supporting them in their adventures. She always found time for a round of golf, a trip to Lake Manchaug, or a game of cards -- any cards, but she was a especially fond of cribbage.She was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and a member of the Senior Adults. She was also a member of the Westborough Senior Center and Bay State Retirees Club.Florence is survived by three sons, Charles D. Gareri and his wife, Jane, of South Carolina, Joseph P. Gareri and his wife, Holly Wheeler, of Maryland, John A. Gareri of North Grafton and a daughter-in-law, April Gareri. She is also survived by five grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren.She was predeceased by a son, Clement A. Gareri, Jr., three brothers, Allen, Francis and Paul Boucher and two sisters, Doris Ogden and Alice Martindale.Her funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 8, at 11:00 A.M. in the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.A calling hour will precede the service from 10 to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.
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Zulima A. Enriquez - November 03, 1930 - April 19, 2019
Departed: 04/19/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Zulima A. Enriquez, 88, of Worcester, formerly of Shrewsbury and Westborough, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019 at the UMass/Memorial Healthcare-University Hospital. She was the wife of the late Louis A. Enriquez.Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, she was the daughter of the late Manuel and Petra (Cires) Rodriguez and was raised and educated in Ecuador.Zulima was a beloved mother, aunt, sister and wife. She was the proud mother of four children and loved this role the best. She was the youngest child of ten and was devoted to her extensive family in Ecuador and throughout the U.S. She was proud to have become a U.S. citizen. She was a longtime resident of Westborough, where she was employed at Westborough State Hospital and Alden Electronics. More recently she resided in Shrewsbury and Worcester. She will be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren and extended family.She is survived by three children, Louis A. Enriquez of Worcester, A. Sue Filsinger of Boylston and Guido J. Enriquez of Framingham and six grandchildren.She was the mother of the late Jimmy Enriquez.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 24, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Tuesday from 5 to 8 P.M.
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Irene S. Hopkins - March 24, 1937 - March 10, 2019
Departed: 03/10/2019 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Irene S. Hopkins, 81, a longtime Westborough resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 10, 2019, at her daughter’s residence in Boylston surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of the late James C. Hopkins, who died in 2008.Born in Fitchburg on March 24, 1937, she was a daughter of the late William F. and Bridie (Corbet) Sullivan. She was raised and educated in Fitchburg and was a graduate of St. Bernard’s High School in Fitchburg. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Fitchburg Teachers College and then earned her master’s degree at Framingham State University.Prior to retirement, she was employed as a middle school teacher at the Gibbons Middle School in Westborough.Irene was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and was a member of the St. Luke’s Women’s Club, the Forever Young Group, and the St. Luke’s Martha’s and Mary’s. She enjoyed walking, taking many cruises all over the world, and cherished the time she spent with her family.She is survived by her four children, James W. Hopkins and his wife, Tracy, of Falmouth, Patricia H. May and her husband, Michael, of Boylston, Susan Hopkins and her husband, Daniel Brangwynne, of South Paris, ME, and Michael S. Hopkins and his wife, Susannah, of Lincoln, RI; ten grandchildren, Rebecca and William Hopkins, Patrick, Margaret, Mackenzie, and Katherine May, Jennifer Goorman, Kieran Sadler, and Elizabeth and Grace Hopkins; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.She is predeceased by her sister Patricia Sullivan.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 16, at 10 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Friday, March 15, from 4 to 7 P.M.The family would like to thank the amazing staff of Right at Home of Westborough and the VNA Care Hospice Worcester team for their commitment, compassion, and support.
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Helen D. Francolini - Unknown - October 30, 2018
Departed: 10/30/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that the family of Helen D. Francolini announces her passing. Known to her friends as “Honey” passed on Tuesday, October 30th 2018. Helen was a long time resident of Westborough, MA.A mother of eight children Helene and Bob Aldenberg, Joan Flood, Mary and Stephen Gustafson , Walter Francolini and Ron Remillard, John Francolini, Carol and Ben Mueller, Ann Marie Francolini and the late Francis Stephen Francolini. She leaves behind nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.Calling hours will be held on Thursday, November 1, from 4-7 P.M. at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, MA.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 2, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.
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Jeffrey T. Burnett - June 23, 1958 - October 17, 2018
Departed: 10/17/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: WESTBOROUGH: Jeffrey Thomas Burnett, 60, of Westborough, MA passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at his home in Westborough.He was the beloved son of Angeline Burnett, brother of Steven Burnett and his wife Monica, father of Christopher Burnett and his wife Ashley, the proud grandfather of Isaac, Elliot, and baby Kaylee. He is also survived by two step-daughters, Brittany and Emily.
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Richard Ernest Samson - February 23, 1936 - August 07, 2018
Departed: 08/07/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Richard Ernest Samson, 82, of Westborough, passed away on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Ann Marie (Kilgarriff) to whom he was married for 60 memorable years.Born in Northampton, MA he was the son of the late Ernest and Stella (Cartotto). He was educated in Northampton and received his degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy in Boston and member of Kappa Psi Fraternity. He served with the Army National Guard Reserves.He had a natural ability to connect with people and had an entrepreneurial spirit. He co-owned Three S Pharmacy and Livery Service in Lincoln and Westwood for 25 years. Most recently, worked at CVS and Reliant Medical Group.He was a member of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and a resident of Westborough for 19 years, previously raising his family in Framingham. He was a volunteer at St. Vincent Hospital, had his private pilot’s license, enjoyed country western dancing, and spent summers in Hampton Beach, NH and winters in Bonita Springs, FL. He will be remembered for his quick wit, the sparkle in his eye and his ability to make people smile.In addition to his wife, Ann, he is survived by his four children, Gail Ann Giffen and her husband, Shawn, of Townsend, MA, Maryjane Stenslie and her husband, Craig, of Durham, NH, Dr. Richard Thomas Samson and his wife, Susan, of Waterville, ME and Patricia Margaret Alden and her husband, Bryant, of Conway, NH; one brother, Jeffrey Samson and his wife, Joy, of Rockland, ME; nine grandchildren, Anthony Giffen, Max Stenslie, Mikaila Horan, Christopher Samson, Eric Samson, Thomas Samson, Amy Samson, Amelya Saras and Claire Alden, along with nieces and nephews.His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 11, at 10:00 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, West Roxbury.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Friday, August 10, from 5 to 8 P.M.
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Ann M. Cusson - July 08, 1919 - April 24, 2018
Departed: 04/24/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Ann M. Cusson, 98, of Shrewsbury passed away on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at the Parsons Hill Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center in Worcester. She was the wife of the late Homer W. Cusson.Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Minnie (Klinevik) Zulkus and was educated in Shrewsbury schools.Ann had been employed as a dietary aide at St. Vincent Hospital, and a cashier at Grants, White City Amusement Park and Speedy’s Drive-In.She was a communicant of St. Anne’s Church in Shrewsbury, enjoyed cooking, the theater and was dedicated to her family. She also enjoyed taking trips to Cape Cod and New Hampshire.Ann is survived by two sons, Daniel M. Cusson and James J. Cusson both of Westborough, three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.She was predeceased by a daughter, Patricia Welch, a grandson, Richard Welch, two sisters, Josephine Roach and Nellie Kershaw and a brother, Anthony Zulkus, Jr.The family would like to thank the staff at Parson Hill for the excellent care provided to Ann.A private funeral Mass will be held in St. Anne’s Church, Shrewsbury.
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John W. O'Neil - April 12, 1962 - April 22, 2018
Departed: 04/22/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: John W. O’Neil, 56, of Housatonic, MA, formerly of Westborough, died on Sunday, April 22, 2018 at home.Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late Paul J. O’Neil and Barbara A. (Dwyer) O’Neil-Bush. He graduated from St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury in 1980 and Bryant University in 1984 with a BSBA in Accounting.John was the president and part owner of the former Village Lumber in Westborough. He was currently employed at Carlson Heating & Air Conditioning.He enjoyed the outdoors, had his private pilot’s license and was a great ski instructor.John is survived by two sons, Alexander C. O’Neil and Ethan J. O’Neil and his former wife, Andrea L. (Stecewicz) O’Neil, all of Canton, CT; his siblings, Debora O’Regan of Westborough, Brenda Elling of West Stockbridge, Mary Crowley of Wayland, Joanne O’Neil of Portland, ME and Matthew O’Neil of Millbury; his extended Bush family, many nieces and nephews; and his very good friends, Osman Elafyouni, of Canton, CT, and Kathryn Benner, of Housatonic.His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, April 30, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial in St. Luke’s Cemetery will be private.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Sunday, April 29, from 2 to 5 P.M.
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Robert B. Tufts, Jr. - October 28, 1941 - February 16, 2018
Departed: 02/16/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: ROBERT BRUCE “Bob” TUFTS, age 76, of Westborough passed away on February 16, 2018, at UMass Medical Center in Worcester, Mass. He had been ill for about one month and died of complications from both kidney failure and liver disease. He was the husband of Anne (Nelpi) Tufts, and leaves his two children, David Tufts and his wife Sandra of Eliot, Maine, and Susan Tufts and her husband Peter Tomilloso of Malden, Mass., and two granddaughters, Chloe and Charlotte Tufts of Eliot.Born to the late R. Bruce Tufts and Elizabeth MacCarthy Tufts and predeceased by his younger brother Stephen, Bob lived in Westborough all his life. Graduating from Westborough High School, he attended the University of Akron, Ohio, on a football scholarship and completed his degree in mechanical engineering at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. He was employed as sales manager for Amdek Corporation in Sudbury, Mass., and as regional manager for Globe Tool & Engineering of Dayton, Ohio. In 1976 he started his own company, Intercoil, selling German machinery to the electric motor and jet engine industries. After a brief retirement he was employed by the Mass. Turnpike Authority until 2008.In Westborough, where Bob was proud to be a “townie”, he worked for the police department as a part time officer. In 1979, he joined the Westborough Rotary Club, served as president in 1984-85, and was manager of the Rotary's Golf Driving Range for almost 30 years until it closed in 2008. He was also an officer in the Westborough Athletic and Social Association (WASA), and served on the first Cable TV Commission and was its chairman for several years. Throughout his business career he was an active member of the International Coil Winding Association, serving as the group’s vice president, treasurer, and a member of its Future Sites Committee.After retirement Bob spent much time at the family’s Cape Cod home in Brewster, where he served on the board of their neighborhood association and was in charge of the roads and beach security. He was also a member of the Orleans/Eastham Elks Club and the Cape Cod Mushroom Society.Bob grew up loving football, hunting and marksmanship, race car driving, and skiing. His sales career allowed him to feed his love of travel and he took many trips to Europe, Mexico, Canada, and across the U.S. He spent one summer in Europe and purchased a Triumph motorcycle in England, riding around the Continent to visit clients before having it flown home. Later in life Bob enjoyed golfing, was an avid Patriots fan, and had been a Pat’s season ticket holder. He developed a passion for cooking and would go to any length to procure ingredients and cooking equipment when trying to perfect a recipe, always sharing food with family and friends who benefited from his talents.His funeral Mass will be held Saturday, March 17, at 10:30 AM in St. Luke's Church, 70 West Main Street, Westborough, with burial to follow at St. Luke's Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Donations in Bob's memory may be made to the Charlotte Spinney Vision Scholarship, which mentors students in Grades 8-12. Checks should be made out to the Town of Westborough (with notation Spinney Scholarship), c/o Town Treasurer, 34 West Main St., Westborough, MA 01581.
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Bharati Vaswani - October 17, 1953 - February 15, 2018
Departed: 02/15/2018 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Bharati Vaswani, also fondly known as Ki, 64, of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 15, 2018, at home surrounded by her loving family.Visitation will be held from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. on Monday, February 19, in the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church Street, Westborough.
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Kathleen A. Despres - September 23, 1942 - December 22, 2017
Departed: 12/22/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Kathleen A. Despres, 75, of Grafton, passed away on Friday, December 22, 2017 at the Jewish Healthcare Center in Worcester.Born in Northbridge, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Yvonne (Belanger) Despres. She was raised and educated in Westborough and earned a Masters of Education at Anna Maria College in Paxton.Kathleen was an elementary school teacher for the Westborough Public Schools for 37 years prior to her retirement and was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church in Westborough.She enjoyed history, traveling and especially loved watching the Boston Red Sox. Kathleen and her sister, Mary, toured Europe many times exploring the history and cultures of many different European countries. London was her favorite city she visited. Many of her friends considered her to be an excellent cook. For the past seven years, she had a bakery stand at the Grafton Farmers Market.She is survived by three brothers, Louis P. Despres and his wife, Marion, of Upton, Francis V. Despres and his wife, Barbara, of Ashby and Thomas J. Despres of Westborough and many nieces and nephews.She was the sister of the late Mary F. Despres and Peter J. Despres.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 29, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.A calling hour will be on Friday from 9 to 10 A.M. at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, prior to the Mass.
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James A. Dorsey - July 18, 1937 - October 14, 2017
Departed: 10/14/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: James A. Dorsey, 80, of Westborough MA passed away peacefully on October 14, 2017. He is survived by his loving wife Dolores (Borgatti) Dorsey, son James A. Dorsey, Jr. and his wife Susan of Shirley, MA, son John P. Dorsey and his wife Elizabeth of Dorchester MA, sister Kathleen Kersus and husband Gerald of Holden MA, sister Lenore Monahan and husband Charles of Worcester, MA, and grandchildren Alicia, Ian, and Sean of Northborough, MA. James was the son of the late James and Kathleen Dorsey, and brother of the late John J. Dorsey.James was born on July 18, 1937 in Worcester, MA. He graduated from Saint John’s High School in Worcester MA, a three-season athlete with a particular knack for basketball. A graduate of the United States Military Academy of West Point, he was a captain in the Army and served in Korea. After leaving the military, James became a longtime executive at IBM, eventually moving back to Massachusetts to lead and grow several tech firms in the area. For the last 10 years, James has been an adjunct professor at many local colleges teaching courses in Human Resources and Management Strategy. James was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and was a member of the John Boyle O’Reilly, Council 85, Knights of Columbus.His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 18, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial, with Military Honors, will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Tuesday, October 17, from 4 to 7 P.M.Members of Council 85 will conduct a Knights of Columbus prayer service at 6:45 P.M.
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John J. O'Neill - August 09, 1929 - September 01, 2017
Departed: 09/01/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Dr. John J. O'Neill, Superintendent Emeritus of Nantucket Public Schools, died on Friday, September 1, 2017 at the Community Hospice in Ft. Worth, TX.John was born in Worcester, MA son of the late Michael F. and Helen (O'Leary). He received his Bachelor's Degree from the College of the Holy Cross in 1951 and a then a Master's Degree from Worcester State College.He enlisted in the U.S. Army went through Basic Training & Leadership school and was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. and assigned to the armored school at Fort Knox, KY. He was a platoon leader and eventually Company Commander. John helped train troops for the Korean conflict.When he returned from Fort Knox in 1954 he was a teacher and coach and then first Principal of the Forbes Junior High. In 1962 he took a leave of absence and joined the newly created Peace Corps.John was assigned as Director of the Peace Corps training center in a tropical rain forest south of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. His plan was to do two years but with encouragement from Peace Corps Director Sargent Shriver he complete three years of service. His other government assignments were training officer of the Labor Dept. Project CAUSE, Regional Director of Project Head Start for the SMOC agency.When he returned to the school system he was Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Sudbury, MA then became Superintendent. In 1979 he and his wife moved to Nantucket, MA where John became Superintendent of Schools. He held that position until 1990. When he retired the school committee honored him with the rank of Superintendent Emeritus.John's unshakeable spiritual faith was the core of his optimistic and vibrant approach to life. He was a member of St. Mary's Our Lady of the Isle Church in Nantucket and St. Maria Goretti's in Arlington, TX.He leaves his brother Daniel and wife Barbara, brother in law and caretaker Richard Anish, stepchildren Beverly, Elaine, Jon Bulger and Grace Mullins and also many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife Grayce H. (Bulger), brother Thomas O'Neill and sister Katherine Anish.His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, September 7, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial, with Military Honors, will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.A calling hour will be held from 9 to 10 A.M. at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, on Thursday prior to the funeral.
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Jean C. DiProfio - April 30, 1923 - September 01, 2017
Departed: 09/01/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Jean C. DiProfio, 94, of Westborough, passed away on Friday, September 1, 2017 at the Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center. She was the wife of the late William F. DiProfio.Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of the late Harold H. and Ethel D. (Clark) Hacker. She was raised on Coburn Ave., in Worcester and was a graduate of Commerce High School.Jean was a homemaker and enjoyed sewing, crocheting, braiding rugs, calligraphy, fishing and bike riding and was a former Avon Lady.She is survived by one son, Ronald William DiProfio and his wife, Debra Kunkel, of Shrewsbury; one daughter, Sharon Jean DiProfio of Westborough; two granddaughters, Jodi DiProfio and Marci DiProfio Miranda; three great-grandchildren, Gavin Miranda, Levi Miranda and Mabel Prince and several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.She was the sister of the late Maurice Hacker and Harold Hacker.A graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 6, at 11:00 A.M. in St. Luke’s Cemetery, Westborough. There are no calling hours.
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Jacqueline S. Tisdell - August 19, 1933 - July 11, 2017
Departed: 07/11/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Jacqueline S. Tisdell, 83, of Northborough, formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 11, 2017 at home. She was the wife ofthe late Joseph A. Tisdell.Born in Bandana, NC, she was the daughter of the late E. L. and Hurtha (McNeil) Silver. She was educated in Bandana schools and was a graduate of Bandana High School.Jacqueline was the co-owner of Colonial Draperies in Northborough. While a resident of Shrewsbury she was a communicant of St. Anne’s Parish.She is survived by three sons, Joseph Tisdell of Shrewsbury, John Tisdell of Worcester and James Tisdell of Charlotte, NC; her lifelong friend, Carolyn Sliwinski of Paxton; 13 grandchildren and one great-grandson.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, July 17, at 10:00 A.M. in St. Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury. Burial will follow in Mountain View Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Sunday, July 16, from 4 to 6 P.M.
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Ralph E. Smith - December 15, 1939 - March 30, 2017
Departed: 03/30/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Ralph E. Smith, 77, of Cheshire, MA, died peacefully on March, 30, 2017, in Lower Cape Fear Hospice, Bolivia, NC, following a six month illness and care given in his NC home.Born in Rockland, ME, third of eight children, he was the son of the late Charles W. Smith and Sue Mae (Brann) Smith. His early years were influenced by his grandfathers. One was a Maine lobster fisherman and the other a woodsman, originally from County Cork, Ireland, who felled trees in the Maine woods and removed them with Roan horses. Ralph enjoyed the sea and the outdoors and drew inspiration from these hard working men.Educated in Westborough schools, Ralph graduated in 1959. He was a member of the Westborough Athletic Club and enjoyed participating in Firemen’s Musters and other activities. He enlisted in the United States Army under-going Basic Training at Fort Hood, Texas. He was on standby in Florida during the Bay of Pigs Invasion. He was deployed to Schweinfurt, Germany, served as a Tank Driver guarding the Czechoslovakian border and later served as Personal Driver for Colonel Fleck of the US Armored Division.Ralph began working at Bay State Abrasives in 1965 and remained there until its closing in 2003.Ralph served as a Boy Scout leader in Upton, MA, in the 1960’s and in Shrewsbury, MA, thereafter. He was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury, MA, from 1968 until 2010 where he offered support to many endeavors including the Haiti Missions, October-Fest and the Mustard Seed monthly meals. Ralph served on the Parish Council and Pre Cana Team. He and his wife, Kathleen, participated in Marriage Encounter.Ralph learned carpentry and cabinet making from his father. He helped build houses in Westborough as a youth and later built and enjoyed his home workshop. He built additions, sheds and decks for his home and those of Shady Lane neighbors. He crafted many wooden items for craft fairs, family and friends. He particularly enjoyed making small furniture, puzzles and toys for his grandchildren and the children of family friends. Ralph could often be found in his workshop smoking his pipe while sanding his most recent bird carving. His joy was spending workshop time with his grandchildren as he encouraged and taught them to make any project they could imagine.After retirement he divided his time between Cheshire, MA, in the Berkshires and Ocean Isle Beach, NC. He enjoyed travelling to Ireland and took pleasure in humorous stories and many friendships.Ralph is predeceased by his son, Alan C. Smith, his parents, his sisters, Christine Farson, Arlene Griffin and Kathleen Smith and his brothers, Francis Smith and Charles L. Smith. He is recently predeceased by his brother-in-law, Robert Brown, of Whiting, ME.He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathleen Brown Smith, his two daughters, Andrea Smith of Worcester, MA, and Lynn Di Nonno and her husband, Richard, of Ocean Isle Beach, NC, and by his son Ryan Smith O’Gowan and his wife Sara of Cumberland RI. “Papa” will be greatly missed by his six granddaughters, Lindsay, Amanda, Madison, Serena, Sophia and Chloe, five grandsons, Matthew, Jordan, Cory, Brandon and John and two great granddaughters, Kyleigh and Isabella.Ralph is survived by his sister, Elaine Hamilton and her husband, Raymond, of New Port Richie, Florida, and his brother, Bruce, and his wife, Lorraine, of Woonsocket, RI. He is also survived by his cousin, Barbara Upham and her husband, Robert, of Framingham, MA.He is survived by his brothers-in-law, Paul Brown and his partner, Ms Kyle Harvey, Francis Brown and his wife, Nancy, and his sister-in-law, Mary Gonzalez, and her husband, Jose. Many beloved nieces and nephews of both the Smith and Brown families survive him as well. He was proud to be a godparent to several wonderful young people over the years including Earl Fay, Jon Lapointe, Kevin Donnelly, Kevin, Sealy, Caitlyn Sealy and Diana Lea Brown.Ralph was a convert to Catholicism in the early 1960’s, studying under Fr. Joseph Ash in Westborough.A Funeral Mass for Ralph will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Saturday, June 24, 2017 in conjunction with his brother-in-law Robert Brown’s Memorial Mass at St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 W. Main Street, Westborough, MA. Calling hours for Ralph will take place at Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church Street, Westborough, MA on June 23, 2017 from 3:30 PM until 6:30 PM. The family will greet Robert Brown’s callers in the St. Luke’s vestibule at 10 AM on June 24, prior to Mass. Ralph’s burial will take place immediately following Mass in St. Luke’s Cemetery.
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Vanda Patricia Alizzeo - July 28, 1919 - March 07, 2017
Departed: 03/07/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Vanda Patricia "Pat" Alizzeo of Westborough passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Rutland, Vermont on July 28, 1919 to Joseph and Anita (Lertola) Lazzari. She was the third of five children. At the age of 5 the family moved to Everett, MA, where she graduated from Everett High School. Pat worked as a bookkeeper at Singer Sewing Machine Company in Chelsea, MA where she met her husband to be, Santo "Sam" Alizzeo. They were married for 60 wonderful years where they made their home in Westborough. In their retirement years, they also enjoyed wintering in Daytona Beach, FL. Sam predeceased her in 2003.She is survived by three children, Dr. Peter Alizzeo of Harwich, MA and Palm Coast, FL, Joanne Garofalo and her husband Robert of Orleans, MA, Paula Imbruno and her husband Robert of Upton, MA. Also 7 grandchildren, Gary Alizzeo and his wife Kinta, Mark Alizzeo, Dr. Robyn Eldredge and husband Brian, Tracy Vaughan and husband Steve, Jeffrey Imbruno and wife Sabrina, Andrew Garofalo, Nicholas Garofalo and wife Laura. She was also blessed with 8 great grandchildren, all who adored her.She also leaves a sister, Helen Lennox of Everett and a brother, Joseph Lazzari of Kingstree, SC. Two older brothers predeceased her, Lionel and Robert Lazzari.In her younger years, she was an active member of the Westborough Garden Club, St Luke's Women's Club, and a volunteer at Westborough State hospital. She was a member of Daytona Beach Golf Course where she enjoyed many years of golfing with Sam and the "49ers" women's golf team. She was a talented self-taught artist, completing many oil and water color paintings which are enjoyed and treasured by all.The family would like to extend their appreciation to her many caregivers who enabled her to stay in the comfort of her home.Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 13 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main Street, Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke's Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough are Sunday from 4 to 6 P.M.Memorial donations may be made to St. Luke the Evangelist Church Memorial Fund, 70 West Main St, Westborough, MA 01581 or the Salmon VNA Home Care, 37 Birch Street, Milford, MA 01757.
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Marjorie A. Bolen - December 05, 1927 - January 29, 2017
Departed: 01/29/2017 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Marjorie A. Bolen, 89, of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 29, 2017 at the Shrewsbury Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was the wife of the late Carl H. Bolen, Jr.Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of the late Alson and Ethel (Booth) Dow. She was educated in Worcester schools and was a graduate of Classical High School. She also attended Westbrook College in Portland, Maine.Marjorie was employed as a sales clerk for Bradlee’s Department Store in Westborough for 25 years prior to her retirement.She was a former member of the Central Congregational Church in Worcester and was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.Marjorie is survived by five children, Bruce R. Bolen and his wife, Eloise, of Revere, Diane L. Galli and her husband, Robert, of Southbridge, Gary A. Bolen and his wife, Joan, of Douglas, Craig A. Bolen and his fiancé, Kathy, of Shrewsbury and Carleen V. O’Connell and her husband, Robert, of Northborough. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.She was the sister of the late Virginia Dow and Richard Dow.Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 2, at 11:00 A.M. in the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.Calling hours at the funeral home, are Wednesday, Feb. 1, from 4 to 7 P.M.
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Richard C. Maloney - January 18, 1933 - December 30, 2016
Departed: 12/30/2016 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Richard C. Maloney, 83, of Hingham and Orleans, MA, formerly of Westborough, passed away on Friday, December 30, 2016 in Hingham. He was a devoted husband and was happily married to the late Carolyn (McHugh) Maloney for 41 years.Born and raised in Worcester, he was the son of the late Francis and Nora (Whelan) Maloney and was a 1951 graduate of Classical High School. He graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in 1955 with a B.A. in Government and subsequently served four years in the U.S. Air Force as a navigator.Rich was a successful sales manager for Sperry Univac and then for many years with Nortel Networks Corp. prior to his retirement. He loved his job in sales and traveled all over the world with Nortel.A 45 year resident of Westborough, Rich was parishioner at St. Luke the Evangelist Church and a long-time member of the Westborough Tennis Club. He more recently resided at the Linden Ponds Retirement Community in Hingham. Rich loved music (especially classic Broadway musicals), American and Irish history, and sports, especially his Holy Cross Crusaders and the Boston Celtics. In later years, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends at his summer home in Orleans. Above all else, Rich loved being with family and friends and meeting new people, always upbeat and enthusiastic and quick with a story or song. He will be remembered always as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend to all.He is survived by his three children, Suzanne Maloney and her husband, Ray Takeyh, of Chevy Chase, MD, Richard Maloney and his wife, Emily Steed, of Brooklyn, NY and James Maloney and his fiancé, Jennifer Breslouf, of Newton; his brother, David Maloney of Orleans; four grandchildren, Alexander and Nicholas Takeyh and Owen and Colette Carolyn Maloney and several nieces and nephews.He was the brother of the late Patricia Blinn.His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, January 5, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Wednesday, January 4, from 5 to 8 P.M.
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Edward J. Barton - November 11, 1964 - December 07, 2016
Departed: 12/07/2016 (Westborough)
Obituary Preview: Edward J. Barton, 52, of Leominster, formerly of Westborough, passed away on Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at the UMass/Memorial Healthcare-University Hospital in Worcester.Born in Marlborough, he is the son of Helen J. (Goggin) Barton of Westborough and the late Luke P. Barton. He was educated in Westborough schools. After high school, he received his Journeyman Electrician Certificate from Assabet Regional Vocational School, and later earned his Master Electrician License.Ed was a self-employed Electrician and enjoyed fishing, boating, hunting, archery and being outdoors with family and friends.In addition to his mother, he is survived by his siblings, Francis P. Barton and his wife, Maureen, of Saratoga, CA, Eileen A. Grimley and her husband, Daniel, of Grafton, William J. Barton of Westborough, Constance A. Barton of Cambridge, Lawrence E. Barton of Shrewsbury, Terrence A. Barton and his wife, Kim, of Westborough and Nancy J. Serapiglia and her husband, Michael, of Northborough, many nieces, nephews and two great-nephews and one great-niece.He was the brother of the late Daniel David Barton and Michael Patrick Barton.His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 12, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. All are welcome. Burial, at a later date, will be private.Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Sunday, December 11, from 2 to 5 P.M.
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Personalized Funeral Services
No two people are alike, and neither should their funeral services be. At Britton-Summers Funeral Home, they believe that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individual's personality, interests, and accomplishments. They offer a range of personalized funeral services, including traditional funerals, cremation services, memorial services, and celebrations of life. Their experienced staff will work closely with you to create a customized service that honors your loved one's memory and provides comfort to those who are grieving.
Facilities and Amenities
The Britton-Summers Funeral Home facility is designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The funeral home features a spacious chapel, comfortable visitation rooms, and ample parking. They also offer a range of amenities, including audio-visual equipment for memorial tributes, catering services for receptions, and online obituaries and condolences.
Pre-Planning Services
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Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
While it's not easy to think about our own mortality, pre-planning your funeral can be a wise decision for you and your loved ones. By making arrangements in advance, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, reduce the burden on your family during a difficult time, and even lock in costs at today's prices. The staff at Britton-Summers Funeral Home is happy to guide you through the pre-planning process and answer any questions you may have.
Community Involvement
Britton-Summers Funeral Home is deeply committed to the Westborough community and is involved in various local organizations and initiatives. They believe that giving back to the community is an essential part of being a good neighbor and citizen. Through their community involvement, they aim to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.
Testimonials from Families Served
Don't just take their word for it – hear from families who have experienced the compassion and professionalism of Britton-Summers Funeral Home firsthand:
"The staff at Britton-Summers were incredible during our time of need. They went above and beyond to ensure that every detail was taken care of." – The Smith Family
"We were so grateful for the guidance and support provided by Britton-Summers Funeral Home. They truly cared about our family's well-being." – The Johnson Family
Contact Information
If you're looking for a funeral home that will provide your family with compassionate care, personalized service, and attention to detail, look no further than Britton-Summers Funeral Home. You can reach them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. Their office hours are [insert office hours], but they are available 24/7 to assist with any immediate needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an obituary?
An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with family, friends, and community.
Why are obituaries important?
Obituaries are important because they provide a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also informing others of their passing. They can also serve as a historical record and provide valuable information for genealogical research.
What is included in an obituary?
A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include a photo, achievements, and accomplishments.
Who writes an obituary?
Obituaries are usually written by family members or close friends of the deceased, although funeral homes and online obituary platforms may also offer writing services.
How long should an obituary be?
The length of an obituary can vary, but it's typically between 100-500 words. The most important information should be included in the first few sentences.
What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?
A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed and personalized tribute to the deceased.
Where are obituaries published?
Obituaries can be published in various places, including local newspapers, online obituary platforms, funeral home websites, social media, and memorial websites.
How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some online platforms offer free or low-cost options, while traditional newspapers may charge a fee based on the length of the obituary.
Can I write my own obituary?
Yes, it's becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your story is told in your own words.
What is an online obituary?
An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional printed obituary. It can include photos, videos, and other multimedia elements, and can be shared easily through social media and email.
How do I find an old obituary?
You can try searching online archives of newspapers or obituary databases such as GenealogyBank or Newspapers.com. You can also contact local libraries or genealogical societies for assistance.
Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?
This depends on the publication or platform where the obituary was published. Some may allow edits or corrections, while others may not. It's best to check with the publisher beforehand.
What is a memorial website?
A memorial website is an online space where family and friends can share memories, photos, and stories about the deceased. It can serve as a permanent tribute to their life.
How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?
You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper through their website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be sure to follow their guidelines and deadlines.
Can I include photos in an obituary?
Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include photos with an obituary. These can be recent photos or ones from throughout the person's life.
What is the purpose of an obituary poem or quote?
An obituary poem or quote can add a personal touch to the tribute and help express the emotions and sentiments of those grieving. They can also provide comfort and inspiration to those reading the obituary.
How do I notify social security about a death?
You should notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) as soon as possible after a death. You can do this online or by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
What is the difference between a eulogy and an obituary?
A eulogy is a speech or written tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service, while an obituary is a written notice announcing the person's passing and providing biographical information.
Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?
Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause they cared about.
How long does it take for an online obituary to be published?
The time it takes for an online obituary to be published varies depending on the platform or publication. Some may publish immediately, while others may take several hours or days.
Can I create an obituary for someone who died many years ago?
Yes, you can still create an obituary for someone who died many years ago. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and provide closure for family members.
What is the role of an obituary in the grieving process?
An obituary can play an important role in the grieving process by providing a sense of closure and allowing family and friends to share their feelings and memories of the deceased.
Can I include humor in an obituary?
Yes, humor can be an appropriate way to celebrate the life of someone who enjoyed laughter and good times. However, be mindful of the tone and audience when deciding what to include.
How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?
If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an obituary, contact the publication or platform where it was published as soon as possible. They may be able to make corrections or issue a revised version.