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Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, Mechanicville Obituaries

Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, Mechanicville Obituaries

Introduction to Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes

Located at 319 Park Avenue, Mechanicville, NY, 12118, Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has been serving the local community for years. As a family-owned and operated business, they understand the importance of providing personalized and dignified funeral services to families during their time of need.

A Legacy of Excellence

Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes has built a reputation for excellence in the funeral industry. Their commitment to providing exceptional service, attention to detail, and genuine care has earned them the trust and respect of the families they serve. With a long history of serving the Mechanicville community, they have developed a deep understanding of the unique needs and traditions of the area.

Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, Mechanicville

Address: 319 Park Avenue, Mechanicville, NY, 12118
Phone Number: (518) 664-3731
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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Florence Ryan - February 03, 1935 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Ms. Florence E. Ryan, 89, formerly of the Mid-Rise Apartments in Mechanicville, died peacefully on April 4, 2024. Born on February 3, 1935, in Stillwater, NY, to the late Thomas S. and Daisy M. Bradt Ryan. A 1954 graduate of Stillwater High School (the last class to graduate from the now Community Center in
Stillwater) and Albany Business College.
Flo had been employed by the Ballantine Beer Company in Albany while sporting her Chevy convertible baby blue Corvair and various other jobs in the local area and Clearwater, Florida. In the early 80s, she was the Activities Director for the Parents without Partners in Clearwater, FL, and a member of Saratoga County. She was a past member of the Mid-Rise Tenants Association, where she helped make Teddy Bears for children. As a Mechanicville Community Center board member, she received the Volunteer Appreciation Award in 1995. Flo enjoyed crafts, reading, cooking, watching her soaps on TV, tweeting on Facebook, emailing friends and family, and playing POGO.
Flo was predeceased by her siblings, Betty, Billy, Andy, and Tommy. She is survived by her son Eric, and his wife, Sheila Sausman of Loveland, CO, two granddaughters, Hannah Elizabeth (Ryan) Bell, Sarah Hope Sausman, great-grandchildren Trinity, Rion, Rosallie, cousin Michael Hostetter, and several nieces and nephews.
A special thank you to her niece Gay Ryan-Wyles, Paula Pietrzak (partner in crime), the late Jane Marotta, Linda Kiley, Zach Wyles and the late Tommy Roberts for their tech support, Elder Care, and the many others who were there for her.
Her family would like to thank Troy Center’s activity department and nursing staff for their kind and compassionate care.
Visiting will be held at Chase-Smith Family Funeral Home located at 319 Park Avenue Mechanicville, NY on April 13, 2024, at 11am – 12:00pm. A memorial service will be held at 12 noon in the funeral home. Burial will be private in Stillwater Union Cemetery in the family plot. In lieu of the flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Stillwater Elder Care, Box 536, Stillwater,
NY 12170.
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Richard J. Fossett - July 13, 1930 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Stillwater, Saratoga County
Richard J. Fossett, 93, of Stillwater passed away Friday, March 22, 2024 in the comfort of his home with his beloved wife by his side. He was born on July 13, 1930 to the late Neil and Helen (Chamberlin) Fossett. He later met the love of his life, Beverly (Cary) “Bev” Fossett, whom he married on August 10, 1952 and shared 72 inseparable years.
A proud veteran, Richard served in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954. He then went on to work on the Boston & Maine Railroad before being employed by General Electric in Waterford for 32 years as a control operator until his retirement in 1990.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three children; Richard (Nancy) Fossett of Mechanicville, Darlene (Karl) Spall of Mechanicville and Bruce (Patrice) Fossett of Stillwater; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; Danielle (John) DelBalso and sons John, Anthony and Adam; Neil Fossett (Magan Sellnow Magee) and children Liam, Ellie and Charlie; Sara Spall (Steve Smith); Lisa (Benjamin) Muscente and daughter Cameron; Jennifer (Matthew) Britt and son Leighton; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Richard is predeceased by his brother Neil Fossett.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2024 from 5 to 7 pm at the Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes on 319 Park Avenue in Mechanicville. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Friday March 29, 2024 at 11 AM and burial will follow at the Millertown Cemetery.
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Anthony Frank Fiorino, Jr. - January 21, 1956 - February 19, 2024

Departed: 02/19/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Anthony Frank Fiorino, Jr. “Bear”, passed away at home on Monday, February 19, 2024. He was 68 years old.
Born on January 21, 1956 to the Mary (Young) Fiorino and the late Anthony F. Fiorino, Sr.
Bear was a dedicated servant of the city of Mechanicville serving in various roles throughout the city such as serving as a police officer for the Mechanicville Police Department, he drove the city bus for many years as well as driving for the Mechanicville City School District. He was also a member of the Mechanicville Fire Department, the former E H Strang Hose Company #3 where we was awarded a Life Saving Medal for selflessly rescuing a man from a house fire on Chestnut St.
Bear was an avid sports fan and could always been seen cheering on his favorite teams the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees.
Survivors in addition to his mother Mary of Melrose include his three cherished sons, Anthony F. Fiorino, III (Jamielynn Langworthy) of Mechanicville, Scott Fiorino (Kaileigh Sheffer) of Gloversville, Nicholas Fiorino (Rosemary Gariepy) of Schenectady, and the loving mother of his children, Paula R. Boardman.
Siblings, James Fiorino of Florida, Michael Fiorino of Mechanicville and Jo-Ann Fiorino of Melrose.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 10 am till 12 pm at the Chase-Smith Family Funeral Home, 319 Park Ave, Mechanicville, NY 12118.
A funeral will be held at 12 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Paul’s Cemetery in the family plot.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Mechanicville Community Center, 6 South Main St, Mechanicville, NY 12118 to help further the city he loved so much.
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Johanna M. (Petricca) Dyer - May 13, 1933 - February 14, 2024

Departed: 02/14/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Mechanicville, Rensselaer County
Johanna M. (Petricca) Dyer of South Hudson Street passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at Schuyler Ridge Residential Healthcare. She was 90. Born in Leominster, MA on May 13, 1933, daughter of the late Joseph and Mildred (Carbone)
Petricca. She is the widow of the late Charles F. Dyer, Sr. who passed away in 1987. Johanna was an active member of the community, serving as Grand Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star, a member of the Hemstreet Park Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, officer of the Mechanicville-Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, secretary and treasurer of the Mechanicville Cemetery Association and was happy to take care of the ‘old people’ at the Mechanicville Senior Center. She proudly worked elections for Rensselaer County with polling at the Hemstreet Park Fire Department and was instrumental in bringing the memorial flags to honor our Veterans over the bridge into Hemstreet Park. An active business woman, she was the owner and operator of the Charles F. Dyer and Sons Construction Company, Admirals Marina and other local businesses. She loved traveling and was a true people person, delighting in visiting with people as she overlooked the river at Admirals Marina. Above all, she loved her family and the time she
spent with them. Survivors include her sons, Charles F. (Jacqueline) Dyer, Jr. of Stillwater, Joseph William Dyer (Lynn Hale) of Mechanicville, adoring grandchildren Ashley (Gary), Alisha (Austin), Charles III (Kayla), Brandon and Alyssa and her beloved great grandchildren Matthew and Nathaniel. Also survived by her
sisters, Dolores Doherty and Sandra (Kenneth) Lolli and sisters in law Marcy Petricca and Jacklyn Dyer.
She is predeceased by her siblings, Joseph Petricca, Anthony Petricca and Joyce Maxim. Calling hours will be from 4-7:00pm on Monday, February 19, 2024 at All Saints on the Hudson Church, Mechanicville, with a prayer service by the Eastern Star at 6:00. Funeral Mass will be at 11am on Tuesday at the church. Burial will be in the family plot in Hudson View Cemetery
Mechanicville.
A very special thank you to the staff and caregivers at the Fenimore Wing in Schuyler Ridge Nursing Home for the care they provided our mother these past several months.
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Kenneth Earl VanVeghten - March 15, 1942 - February 11, 2024

Departed: 02/11/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Kenneth Earl VanVeghten, Sr., resident of Fort Meyer, Florida and formerly of Mechanicville, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2024. He was 81.
Born in Schaghticoke on March 15, 1942, son of the late Irving Dana and Ruth (Grogan) VanVeghten. He is the husband of Jean (Mazzio) VanVeghten.
Mr. VanVeghten served in the US Army, 82nd Airborne having 52 jumps to his credit, and was honorably discharged in 1965. He worked as a foreman in construction and electrical.
Survivors in addition to his wife Jean include their children, Keith (Karen) VanVeghten of Mechanicville, Joseph (Belinda) VanVeghten of Pembroke, MA, Michael VanVeghten of Mechanicville, Kenneth E. VanVeghten, Jr. of Myrtle Beach, John (Tina) VanVeghten of Cape Coral and Diane (Paul) Trieger of Brockton, MA. Also survived by 15 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and his brother Lester VanVeghten and a brother in law William Betts.
He is predeceased by his son, James VanVeghten, his siblings Liam (Rita) VanVeghten, Irving Dana (Agnes) VanVeghten, Jr., Beverly Betts and Diane VanVeghten.
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Michael P. Sivers - August 19, 1991 - January 26, 2024

Departed: 01/26/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Michael P. Sivers 31, died unexpectedly Friday, January 26th 2024.
Born on August 19,1991 in Bartow, Florida son of Paula Sivers and James P. Sivers, Jr.
Mike was a kind, generous and loyal man, who would always be there for those he loved. His big heart and joking nature will be remembered by everyone that knew him.
He leaves behind his Mom, Paula Sivers, his Dad, James P. Sivers, Jr., his loving partner Christy Bernard of 3 years, his sisters, Carretta (Travis) Swartfiguer, Cayla, Jessica and Courtney Sivers, his brothers, Steven and Jordan Sivers, his nieces Kayleigh, Sierra, Ava, Sofia and nephew Dylan that he adored, paternal grandparents Linda Nahm and James P. Sivers, Sr., maternal grandparents Paul Ryan, Jr. and Rebecca Allawine and a host of aunts uncles and cousins.
A service will be held at a later date.
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Ralph E. Gaunay, Jr. - August 06, 1946 - January 17, 2024

Departed: 01/17/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Mechanicville, Saratoga County
Ralph E. "Skip" Gaunay, Jr., 77, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at his home in Mechanicville, NY surrounded by his loving family.
Skip was born in Troy, NY to the late Ralph E. Gaunay, Sr and Vivian K. Gaunay of Colonie, NY. He received his bachelor's degree from Lynchburg College in Virginia in 1968 and went on to receive his master’s degree in industrial administration from Union College in Schenectady, NY in 1974. Skip worked for General Electric in Schenectady, NY for many years and retired from Farm Family Insurance as a project manager in 2012. After retirement he worked part time for Enterprise and enjoyed his time with his friends there the most.
He enjoyed traveling with his wife Judy; his favorites included Maine and the Caribbean. He loved discovering new restaurants on the scenic back roads of NY and New England. Skip was an avid skier and scuba diver in his earlier years and was always an animal lover. His favorite being Rick and Kayla’s one eyed black cat, Hero.
Skip is survived by his loving wife: Judy (Henning) Gaunay, His stepson Richard (Kayla) Henning and the sparkle of his eye - granddaughter Iliza of Petersburg NY, stepdaughter Stacey Dunn, grandsons Michael and Ryan of Colonie, NY.
His sister Susan G. (Patrick) Murphy, of Middletown DE, a cherished nephew and niece: Sean A. (Angela) Murphy of Fredericksburg, VA and Jennifer M. (Laszlo) Koller of Hopatcong, NJ, Grandnieces: Erin and Kathleen Murphy and Zsuzsanna and Zsofia Koller, as well as several cousins.
Skip will be greatly missed and loved by his family and close friends.
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Sarah Jean Zerrenner - June 27, 1983 - January 11, 2024

Departed: 01/11/2024 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Clifton Park, Saratoga County
Sarah Jean Zerrenner passed away peacefully at her home on January 11, 2024. Sarah’s journey through life was marked by her devotion to her family, her passion for occupational therapy-her love to help children, pets, and her unwavering kindness. Her positive energy would always light up a room. Sarah loved being in the presence of nature and enjoyed the trees and animals.
Survived by her beloved spouse Tom, her sister Courtney Hamilton and mother Ellen Wahnon-Hill among other family members.
No funeral services are being held at this time and a celebration of life will take place at a later date.
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Rita Lewandowski - April 12, 1935 - December 29, 2023

Departed: 12/29/2023 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Slingerland, Albany County Rita’s wonderful life
Rita (Cavanaugh ) Lewandowski was reunited with the love of her life Gerard Lewandowski on December 29, 2023. First daughter born in Troy, NY in 1935 to Grace (Lewis) and William Cavanaugh. Formerly married to Donald Rivers of Northport, Florida.
Beloved sister to Mary Alice Simone, Karen Valoze and the late James, Joan & Edward Cavanaugh.
A few paragraphs can’t capture how Rita gave life to her 88 years and joy to all who knew her. She was the consummate cheerleader, a picture of vivaciousness, laughter and love. Her proudest achievements were her children: David Rivers, Susan Golden, Diane (Howard) Vics, Patricia (Tony) Szczesniak & Brian (Karie) Lewandowski.
Her grandchildren were the apple of her eye: Candice (Jamie) Maier, Abbey Rivers, Emma (Nathan) Wood, Matthew (Trish) Dembling, Dillon Rivers, Samantha Golden, Allie Lewandowski, Zoe & Lily Szczesniak and Allie Lewandowski & ten adored great grandchildren. Also survived by several loved cousins, nieces, nephews, family members and dear lifelong friends.
She was a fully engaged and supportive community member, Meals on Wheels, FISH, lifelong PTA member & communicant of Saint Paul’s Church, Mechanicville, and Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Latham and St. Edward the Confessor Church, Clifton Park.
The Life of the party, Rita danced and sang her way through the journey. Rita will be fondly remembered for her radiant smile, positive outlook, quick Irish wit, creativity, consummate homemaker skills, delectable Baking, cooking, themed parties and patriotism – she never missed a parade. Her annual fun Christmas Eve open house was eagerly anticipated, with 150 people, communal singing with Rita’s ukulele accompaniment, yummy foods and drinks, followed by midnight mass. She was also an avid sewer, quilter, crafter, baker, cook, dancer, bowler and proud honorary Irish bocce team player.
As a proud founding member of Latham Circle Sweet Adelines chapter, she enjoyed 38 years tenure, including local, regional and international competitions and performances, even on the same Austrian stage where the Von Trapp family singers performed. Rita also returned to Mechanicville with the Dorothy Welch choir at her childhood church for holiday concerts and backing up fellow ginger, Reba McEntire in concert.
Rita’s love of Mechanicville brought her home to the trains, local businesses, school and activities, community connections and she jumped wholeheartedly into the DAR, Catholic Daughters of the Americas Saint Paul, Court #71 and the Doll Ladies.
Rita enjoyed exploring and traveled locally, regionally, statewide, & worldwide, always making friends.
Her family extends heartfelt gratitude for the loving care provided by Peregrine Guilderland staff & fellow residents, doting care by St. Peters Hospital staff, Shaker Place Nursing and Community Hospice caregivers.
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Robert David Speanburg - February 05, 1946 - December 25, 2023

Departed: 12/25/2023 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Robert David Speanburg of Gilbert Street passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023 at home with his loving family at his side. He was 77.
Born in Valley Falls on February 5, 1946, son of the late Duane and Catherine (Hunt) Speanburg. He is the husband of the former Sharon Mullen who he married on October 8, 1966.
Bob attained an Associates Degree and worked passionately as a mason. Following his career in masonry he went on to work for and retire from the New York State Department of Transportation in the Railway Department. He was a communicant and very active member of the Valley Falls United Methodist Church serving as a Lay Person, Former Trustee and a member of the Administrative Board. He was a former Elk BPOE 1403, Mechanicville. He was a founding member of the Hoosic Valley Athletic Association and was a pioneer for wheelchair sports. He loved coaching and coached both his grandsons in football and baseball. Bob was an avid New York Yankees fan.
Survivors in addition to his wife Sharon Speanburg include his daughter, Shannon McHale, his grandchildren Drew Christopher McHale (Ashley Lavigne) of Mechanicville, Keegan Chad McHale (Makayle Huff) of Schaghticoke and Payton Delaney McHale of Mechanicville, his great granddaughter Maycee Mae McHale, his brother Kenneth (Jeanne) Speanburg of Clifton Park and many dear relatives and close friends.
He is predeceased by his son, Chad Christopher Speanburg and his brother Duane “Butch” Speanburg.
Relatives and friends may call from 4-7:00pm on Friday, December 29, 2023 at the Valley Falls United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be conducted in the church at 7:00pm with a reception to follow. Online remembrances may be made at www.chasesmithfamily.com
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Alice K. Izzo - August 29, 1927 - December 24, 2023

Departed: 12/24/2023 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Mechanicville, Saratoga County
Alice K. Izzo of 60 North Main Street, Mechanicville passed away on Sunday, December 24, 2023 at home. She was 96.
Born on August 29, 1927 in Saratoga Springs, daughter of the late Joseph and Eileen (Riley) Adams. She is the widow of the late Lawrence F. Izzo who passed away in 1988.
Alice worked as a waitress for the Spa Diner and for the Howard Johnson Diner from where she retired. She enjoyed arranging flowers, visiting thrift shops and loved music. She was a good neighbor and loved spending time with her family and friends. She liked meeting up with her friends at McDonalds and Bubbles.
Survivors include her niece, Sandra (Gerald) Baker of Saratoga Springs, her nephew, Bryon Baker, her great nephews Parker and Jackson Baker. Also survived by several extended family members and friends.
She is predeceased by her siblings, Marion Boorom, Ruth Jones, Geraldine Adams, Malcolm Adams, an infant brother Joseph Adams and her nephew Jeremy Baker.
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Adele J. Silivanch - December 27, 1941 - December 09, 2023

Departed: 12/09/2023 (Mechanicville)
Obituary Preview: Mechanicville, Saratoga County
Adele J. Silivanch passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Saratoga Hospital. She was 81.
Born on December 27, 1941 in Brooklyn, daughter of the late Peter J. and Adele (Luchen) Krempa.
Adele loved spending time with family and especially enjoyed caring for her beloved grandchildren.
Survivors include her sons, Richard, Jr. “Ricky” and wife Judy Suzuki of Portland, CT and Peter Suzuki and wife Erin Slater-Suzuki of Ballston Lake, her adoring grandchildren Declan James Slater-Suzuki, Kelly Peter Slater-Suzuki, Dominic Suzuki, Zachary Suzuki, Joshua Seymour, Drew Seymour and Lexie White.
In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her son Joseph P. Suzuki and her brother Peter Krempa, Jr.
Calling hours will be on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 5-7:00pm at the Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, 319 Park Avenue, Mechanicville. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday at 1:00pm at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 2001 Route 9, Round Lake, NY. Burial will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna.
Kindly consider a donation to the American Cancer Society in loving memory of Adele Silivanch. Online remembrances may be made at www.chasesmithfamily.com
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Personalized Funeral Services

At Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, they believe that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that honors the individual's personality, achievements, and legacy. They offer personalized funeral services that are tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of each family. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, they provide a range of options to suit every taste and budget.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home is located in a beautiful and historic building on Park Avenue in Mechanicville. The facility has been carefully designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with comfortable seating areas, ample parking, and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. The chapel can accommodate large gatherings, and there are also private rooms available for smaller, more intimate services.

Caring and Compassionate Staff

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The staff at Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes are dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional care and support to families during their time of need. They are trained to handle every aspect of funeral planning, from coordinating logistics to offering emotional support and guidance. Their goal is to make the funeral planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing families to focus on what matters most – celebrating the life of their loved one.

Community Involvement

Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes is deeply committed to giving back to the Mechanicville community. They participate in local events, sponsor charitable organizations, and provide educational resources to help families navigate the grieving process. By being an active and engaged member of the community, they demonstrate their commitment to serving families beyond just providing funeral services.

Pre-Planning Options

One of the most important decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones is to plan ahead for your funeral. Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes offers pre-planning options that allow you to make informed decisions about your final arrangements, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary burden. By pre-planning, you can also lock in costs at today's prices, avoiding future inflation.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted and compassionate funeral home in Mechanicville, look no further than Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes. You can reach them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. They are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have or provide guidance during your time of need.

Note: Please replace [insert phone number] and [insert website URL] with the actual contact information for Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes.

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's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who want to pay their respects. They help notify people of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and often include information about charitable donations or other ways to celebrate the person's life.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family members or close friends of the deceased write the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with writing the obituary. The writer should be someone who knew the person well and can provide accurate and meaningful information about their life.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), hobbies, interests, and surviving family members. It may also mention predeceased family members, special achievements, and any notable contributions they made to their community.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Traditional newspaper obituaries are often limited to 200-300 words, while online obituaries can be longer and more detailed. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 1-2 paragraphs summarizing the person's life and accomplishments.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral home websites allow you to upload photos of the deceased. This can be a wonderful way to personalize the obituary and make it more engaging for readers. You can include a single photo or create a photo gallery showcasing different moments from the person's life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process. They may have specific guidelines for formatting, word count, and deadlines. Be prepared to provide all necessary information and payment for the publication fee (if applicable).

What is the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or platform. Some publications charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals or flat fees. Online obituary platforms may offer free or low-cost options. Be sure to ask about pricing when submitting your obituary.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's difficult to make changes to a printed newspaper obituary once it's been published. However, online obituaries can often be edited or updated by the original submitter or with permission from the funeral home or platform administrator.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The publication timeline varies depending on the newspaper or platform. Some online obituaries are published immediately after submission, while print newspapers may take several days or even weeks to publish. Be sure to check with the publication for their specific timeline.

What if I need to correct an error in an obituary?

If you notice an error in a published obituary, contact the newspaper or platform administrator as soon as possible. They will work with you to correct the mistake and republish the revised obituary.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes! Some people choose to write their own obituary as a way to reflect on their life and legacy. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your story is told in your own words. You can store your self-written obituary with your important documents or share it with loved ones.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries that maintain historical records. Many genealogy websites and online obituary platforms also offer searchable databases of past obituaries.

Can I reuse an existing obituary template?

Yes! You can use online templates or examples as a starting point for writing your own obituary. Just be sure to customize the content to fit the person's unique life and personality.

What is an online memorial?

An online memorial is a virtual space where friends and family can share memories, condolences, and stories about the deceased. These memorials often remain active for years, allowing people to continue paying tribute and celebrating the person's life.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add meaning and context to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's personality, interests, or values.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues surrounding the person's death (e.g., suicide or addiction), it's essential to approach these topics with care and compassion. Consider consulting with family members or a professional counselor before deciding what information to include.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers. This allows friends and loved ones to make a meaningful contribution in memory of the deceased.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be an emotional task. If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider enlisting the help of a friend, family member, or professional writer. You can also take breaks and come back to it when you feel more composed.

Can I write an obituary for a pet?

Absolutely! Pet owners often grieve just as deeply as they would for human loved ones. Writing an obituary for your pet can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions and celebrate their life.

How do I preserve an original copy of an obituary?

You can save digital copies of online obituaries or scan printed copies for safekeeping. Consider creating a scrapbook or memory box with other mementos from the person's life.

What if I need additional support during this difficult time?

Losing a loved one can be incredibly challenging. Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, counselors, or support groups for emotional guidance and comfort during this difficult time.

Are there any cultural differences in writing an obituary?

Yes! Different cultures may have unique customs and traditions surrounding death notices and funerary practices. Be respectful of these differences when writing an obituary for someone from another cultural background.

Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One

Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

Let our expert Funeral Speech Writers create a heartfelt & personalized eulogy, that captures the amazing life and memories of your loved one.

Learn more about our Professional Eulogy Writing Service today, and see how we can help you.

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About Jeffery Isleworth

Jeffery Isleworth is an experienced eulogy and funeral speech writer who has dedicated his career to helping people honor their loved ones in a meaningful way. With a background in writing and public speaking, Jeffery has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting heartfelt and authentic tributes that capture the essence of a person's life. Jeffery's passion for writing eulogies and funeral speeches stems from his belief that everyone deserves to be remembered with dignity and respect. He understands that this can be a challenging time for families and friends, and he strives to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Over the years, Jeffery has helped countless families create beautiful and memorable eulogies and funeral speeches. His clients appreciate his warm and empathetic approach, as well as his ability to capture the essence of their loved one's personality and life story. When he's not writing eulogies and funeral speeches, Jeffery enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and traveling. He believes that life is precious and should be celebrated, and he feels honored to help families do just that through his writing.