Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas Obituaries

Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas: A Compassionate and Personalized Approach to Funeral Services

Located in the heart of Plano, Texas, Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas is a premier funeral home that provides compassionate and personalized funeral services to families in their time of need. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on celebrating life, Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas has established itself as a trusted and respected name in the funeral industry.

A Legacy of Trust and Excellence

At Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas, the team of experienced funeral professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional service and care to each family they serve. With a legacy of trust and excellence, the funeral home has built a reputation for its attention to detail, compassion, and dedication to honoring the lives of loved ones who have passed.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Linda Howard - March 05, 1949 - July 02, 2022

Departed: 07/02/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Linda Kay Howard, 73, of McKinney, Texas, passed away on July 2, 2022.She was born in Ardmore, Oklahoma on March 5, 1949. Linda graduated from Sapulpa High School and studied at Dallas College Richland Campus.Linda had a career in telecommunications for Verizon and Frontier Communication.She had a passion for animals, especially horses.Linda was survived by a daughter Tonya Howard McCully and her grandchildren, KJ and KayLynn. She also leaves behind to cherish her memory her best friend Sonia Cerda and Family. A Celebration of Life for Linda will be held at 10 AM, on Saturday, July 9, 2022, at Distinctive Life Funeral Home, 1611 N Central Expry. in Plano, Texas.

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Elizabeth Roberts - August 20, 1933 - June 25, 2022

Departed: 06/25/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Elizabeth Lydia Roberts, age 88, of Garland, Texas passed away Saturday, June 25, 2022.Elizabeth lived most of her life in Winchester, Tennessee where she was a member of The Way of The Cross Baptist Church. She was a retiree of Shaw Industries after working there for more than 25+ years. Above all else, she was a devout Christian who loved serving the Lord, a loving mother and loyal friend.She was one of Gods most faithful servants and greatest prayer warrior.She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Laurene Elsea of Sale Creek, TN; Daughter and Son-In-Law, John and Sandi Payne of Eton, GA; Grand Daughter, Gina Cronan of Ramhurst, GA and Grand Daughter Staci Ruse of Dalton, GA. Survivors include Brother, Mr. and Mrs. John Elsea of Soddy Daisy, TN, Son and Daughter-In-Law, David and Darla Goodson of Garland, TX, Daughter, Tamara Roberts of Argyle, TX. Grandchildren Becky and James Hemp, Dustin Goodson, Blake McMillan, Laura Beth and Zach Crow and blessed with many Great Grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at Restland Funeral Home, Dallas, TX on Friday, July 1st, 2022, at 11:30am.

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Beverly Bannister - April 03, 1953 - June 24, 2022

Departed: 06/24/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Beverly Josette Bannister .... April 3, 1953 ~ June 24, 2022Beverly loved books, music (especially Prince), knitting, collecting recipes, Black Barbie dolls and the Dallas Cowboys.Our Lord God said her battle with cancer was done and called her to His Heavenly home on June 24, 2022. Beverly courageously fought a multitude of medical challenges over many years without complaint, and always with perseverance and a positive attitude.Beverly was born April 3, 1953, in Montgomery, West Virginia to Carrie Lee Bannister and Henry Rudolph Johnson. She grew up with the loving guidance of her grandmother, Mary Elizabeth Bannister in East Bank, West Virginia and later in Glen Farris, West Virginia. Beverly graduated from Dupont High School, Belle, West Virginia and West Viriginia University Institute of Technology, Montgomery, west Virginia. In her college days she traveled, singing joyfully, with Tech Collegiate Gospel Choir. That choir praised The Holy Spirit in Black churches across southern West Virginia, lifting every community visited. That desire to help people and community lead to her first job at City- wide Community Council in Charleston, West Virginia in 1974.In August 1980, with a 2-year-old bundle of joy named Kym and husband, Smith in tow, life, love and the universe led her to Carrollton, Texas and a part-time job with Half-Price Books, little knowing that to be an introduction into a family that would teach, love and support her physically, financially and emotionally for the rest of her days. The Half-Price Books Family! Beverly's' roles over the years ranged from clerk, assistant manager, manager at Farmers Branch and Preston stores. Her favorite role was 'Director of First Impressions' at corporate headquarters. She retired in September 2021. Over those 41 years, Beverly has touched, helped, mother-ed, and consoled almost every HPB employee in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. And a fair number of those spread across the country! with every encounter she tried to uplift you with a smile, or a joke. She lent a listening ear to many in the HPB as they navigated problems with customers, employees, spouses, kids, and life.Beverly touched the lives of many people, inspiring family, friends, neighbors, doctors, nurses, technicians and fellow patients to keep going and hold on to a positive attitude! No matter what life throws at you! She was a bright light in this world. All who knew her is deeply saddened by her leaving this world but rejoice that she now rests in God.she was preceded in death by her mother, Carrie, father, Rudolph, brother, Samuel Crockett and brother -in-law, Kenneth Wright. she leaves to grieve her daughter, Elisa Kym Smith; brother, Broderick J. (Brenda) Crockett; sister, Stephanie Wright; nephews, Jamal Crockett and Anthony Green; cousins, Henry (Regina) Newbell, Francis (Walter) Ramsey; special friend, Charlotte (Eddie) Roquemore and hundreds in the Half-Price Books Family.

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Ervin "Erv" Conrad - June 20, 1938 - June 20, 2022

Departed: 06/20/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Ervin Joseph Conrad of Plano, Texas departed this life for his heavenly home on June 20, 2022. Known to family and friends as Erv, he was a one-of-kind just as his name implied.Erv was born to Erwin and Gertrude in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 20, 1938. Erv, also known as "Skip" during his younger days, grew up in the Whitefish Bay area of the city and shared many stories of his childhood including an endearing story of his pet collie, Major.Erv was a charismatic, energetic individual who enjoyed meeting new people and helping people connect with one another.Erv was successful in the semiconductor industry. During his early career Erv started a new customer service division in Iowa for a leading electronics parts manufacturer.Erv was the loving husband to the late Mary Ellen Conrad. Father to David Conrad, Stephanie Pinkerton, father-in-law to Allan Pinkerton, and grandfather to Jack and Kate Pinkerton. He leaves behind a host of family, friends, and loving neighbors.Erv attended St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. His memorial service will be held on Friday, July 1st, 2022, at 3 PM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church

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Ronald Herndon Sr. - July 31, 1938 - June 17, 2022

Departed: 06/17/2022 (Plano)

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Charles McCullough - March 29, 1938 - June 17, 2022

Departed: 06/17/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: McCullough, Charles Harold, departed this life at the age of 84 on June 17, 2022. He was born on March 29, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, to Harold Adolphus McCullough and Sarah Elizabeth Adcox. Charles was passionate about music at an early age, presenting his first public piano recital at age 10 and making his debut with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra at age 14. While in high school, he played recitals across the Southwest and in 1955, he won the State Fair of Texas Talent Competition. He was a cheerleader and president of his senior class at Dallas' Sunset High School, where he graduated in 1956. He earned a bachelor's degree from Southern Methodist University and a master's degree from Indiana University. Charles was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and Phi Mu Lambda and also studied at the Musik Hochshule in Munich Germany, on a Fulbright-Hays Scholarship. Although he was a classically trained pianist, he easily crossed genres playing everything from Boogie Woogie to Chopin.Charles won the G.B Dealey Piano Competition in 1960. He was awarded a special citation, "Outstanding Virtuoso," in the Alfredo Casella International Piano Competition in 1964 in Naples, Italy. He travelled the world to perform in Mexico, France, Germany and Italy.Charles served in the United States Airforce band from 1960-1962, before moving to Europe to continue his studies, teach and perform. He later continued his music instruction career at Ithica College and the University of North Texas before returning to Europe to teach at the United World College at St. Donat's Castle in Wales _1977-1987), where he also performed special recitals for HRH Prince Charles.He returned to the Dallas area in 1987 to begin private piano instruction and became Music Director for Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Richardson, Texas, where he worked until retiring in 2010, due to declining health.Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Marlene Ann McCullough Beasley and his son Timothy Rufus McCullough.He is survived by his former wife Juliette McCullough and two daughters Melissa Ann Gruenwald and Franceska Danielle McCullough. He was also survived by his longtime friend, Skippy. Private Arrangements.

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James Perry - May 17, 1944 - June 03, 2022

Departed: 06/03/2022 (Plano)

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Antonio "Tony" Sanchez - February 15, 1974 - May 10, 2022

Departed: 05/10/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Antonio "Tony" Augustine Sanchez was born Friday, February 15, 1974, and passed away with his family by his side on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, in Richardson, Texas.Antonio was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico to William and Mary Campos-Sanchez. He grew up with his older sister Doralynn. He loved playing baseball and football with the neighborhood kids. His favorite memories growing up was being at his grandmother's house and hanging out with his uncles.He graduated from Sandia High School.Tony was a huge fan of football and sports in general. His favorite movie and tv shows were Stepbrother's and Yellowstone. He loved all hip hop and country, but his favorite singer was Miranda Lambert. He loved spending time with his family and going camping. Tony was stubborn but would do anything for his loved one. He will forever be remembered for being loving and had a huge heart of gold.He survived by his mother, Mary Campos- Sanchez. His girlfriend and best friend Gina Santurro. His furbaby, Rosie Puppy. He also leaves behind to cherish his memory and legacy, two daughters and one son: Abrianna Sanchez, Tristen Ontiveros and Antonio (TJ) Sanchez Jr. His beloved grandson Dean Ontiveros and a sister Doralynn Intermont. He will also be greatly missed by his seven uncles and four aunts in New Mexico.

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Claude Peel - March 29, 1938 - May 05, 2022

Departed: 05/05/2022 (Plano)

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Isauro Real - June 17, 1944 - April 28, 2022

Departed: 04/28/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Isauro Real, age 77, passed away peacefully on Thursday April 28, 2022, at Methodist Dallas Hospital in Dallas Texas. He was born June 17, 1944, in Limon Grande Guerrero. He worked as a Kitchen Restaurant worker most of his life. He lived a simple life and worked hard all his life. He is survived by his wife Juana Duarte and his sons, Rogelio Real and Agustin Real. Family, friends, and others whose lives he touched are invited to the Distinctive Life Funeral Home, 1611 N Central Expressway Plano, TX 75075. Viewing is from 6-8pm and the service is from 8-9pm.

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Gary Farris - August 22, 1942 - April 25, 2022

Departed: 04/25/2022 (Plano)

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Trenton "Bo" McCoy - February 19, 1985 - April 12, 2022

Departed: 04/12/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Trenton James McCoy, lovingly called "Bo" by his family and friends of Lewisville, Texas passed away at the young age of 37. He went to Heaven to be with our Lord at 11:16 A.M. on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at Medical City Hospital in Plano, Texas.Trenton James McCoy "Bo" was born in Shreveport, Louisiana to his parents, Rosemary Lawrence Stewart of San Antonio, Texas and Willie James McCoy of Shreveport, Louisiana on February 19, 1985.He grew up and went to school in Shreveport, Louisiana. He then moved to Carrollton, Texas and met his best friend for life, Christina Brenton McCoy. He married Christina on October 30, 2009, in Terrell, Texas. He worked as a Forklift Operator for J.C. Millworks for 3 years.Bo's love for the Lord, his life, his friends, and his family was quite evident throughout his years on this earth. He tried to live life every day to its fullest. He was a remarkable example to all who were privileged to know him and will be greatly missed.He was involved in many adventures throughout his life. His most precious love, besides his wife and children, was his appreciation for music. He was a songwriter and singer. He also loved to cook. He would always cook for his family and friends every chance he got. He also loved to travel. He and his wife, children, and his friends made trips to Oklahoma and Arkansas many times during the year. And lastly, he loved any aspect of the weather. He really loved the thrill of watching a good thunderstorm!Bo is survived by his wife, Christina Brenton McCoy of Lewisville, Texas; his children, Jayden Alexander Brigdon, Jayla Brielle McCoy, Jayde Roseanne McCoy, and Jaymes Edward McCoy, all from Lewisville, Texas. He is also survived by his half-sister, Priscilla Howard Brown and her husband, Robert Brown of Irving, Texas; his brother, Eleazar James McCoy of Shreveport, Louisiana; his sister, Elisha Brianca Bates of Shreveport, Louisiana; his sister Tiffany Danielle Wilson and her wife Maggie Wilson of San Antonio, Texas; his brother, Terence James McCoy of Lewisville, Texas; and his many aunts, uncles, and cousins.Bo was preceded in death by his grandfather and grandmother, Jerry Lawrence, Sr. and Jewelean Tates of Shreveport, Louisiana and Clarence and Zanzie McCoy of Elm Grove, Louisiana.His Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in The Colony, Texas at 2:30 P.M.A GoFundMe account has been setup to help the immediate needs of the family.Bo's family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Reverend Adam Young and First United Methodist Church of The Colony.

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Mary Babin - August 21, 1945 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Plano)

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Terry Sawyer - September 19, 1953 - March 30, 2022

Departed: 03/30/2022 (Plano)

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Juanita Hughes - September 27, 1927 - March 23, 2022

Departed: 03/23/2022 (Plano)

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Lois Wilkens - July 27, 1934 - March 21, 2022

Departed: 03/21/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Lois Nadine Wilkens died in Irving, Texas on March 21, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. She was born at home in Minnesota Lake, Minnesota on July 27, 1934, to Herbert G. and Mae Belle (Goodrich) Tolzmann. She was preceded in death by her younger brother, Nyles H. Tolzmann. Lois is survived by her children Sharilyn Geistfeld (Robert Moore), Mark Geistfeld (Janette Sadik-Khan), Steven Geistfeld (Tara Friend), and Ann Clasby (Michael) and her grandchildren Max, Hudson, Dylan, Mara and Phoenix.Lois attended Bethany Lutheran High School in Mankato, Minnesota and graduated on May 30, 1952. During this time, she met her former husband Ronald E. Geistfeld. In 1959, they moved to Northfield where they raised their four children and were active as a family in the Northfield public schools, Arts Guild, Golf Club, Jaycees, and Trinity Lutheran Church. In 1981, Lois married Kenneth Wilkens and her family expanded to include his children and grandchildren: Jane Rae Wilkens, James Wilkens (Jane, Amanda and Jake), and Julie Wilkens-Gaardsmoe (Sophie). Lois and Kenneth resided in Northfield for 31 years while also enjoying much time at their lake cabin near Hayward, Wisconsin, and later lived part-time in the Dallas area of Texas. Although sad to leave her many cherished friends in Northfield, Lois permanently moved to Texas to be close to her daughter Ann and family after Kenneth passed away. While there, Lois met Smith T. Powell III, who gave her an immeasurable amount of happiness and loving support in the last chapter of her full life.For many years, Lois served as a skillful administrator in several departments at St. Olaf College where she was a beloved colleague and friend to many faculty, students and staff. During this time, Lois audited classes at both St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges, focusing on Art History and including Sociology and Psychology. Lois fostered a love for art and travel that she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She participated in many St. Olaf group global-travel programs (especially to Greece) led by her favorite art historians. Over the years she visited her children in France, Scotland, Belgium, Tunisia and Brazil, as well as one of her adopted Rotary Exchange high school students from Sweden.Lois's greatest passion was caring for and supporting children and young people -- loving care of her own children and grandchildren, mothering the many foster babies from Rice County that she would have adopted if possible; and taking under her wings countless high school and college students for whom she made a home away from home. She was an avid walker, for years practiced Pilates and yoga, and took a great deal of (much-earned) pride in completing in the American Birkebeiner cross-country ski race. Lois will also be remembered for her beautiful smile full of love and laughter, her love of books and reading, and of course her extraordinary culinary skills and enjoyment of food, especially chocolate.

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Patricia Pace - May 19, 1934 - March 17, 2022

Departed: 03/17/2022 (Plano)

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Marionette Dehart - November 02, 1948 - March 17, 2022

Departed: 03/17/2022 (Plano)

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Martha Bingham - May 23, 1937 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Plano)

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Tait Anderson - December 30, 1966 - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Tait Ryan Anderson entered into life on Friday, December 30, 1966, in Saint Petersburg, Florida and entered into eternal peace on Monday, March 14, 2022. Tait was the second born child of four to Darby Jo and Patrick Leon Anderson.Tait was a graduate of Huron High school and moved to Texas in 1991. He was a server at Del Frisco Steakhouse in 1993 when the company competed for the Number 1 spot for the best steak house in the country. In 2002 he started and owned Andersons Stump Busters which became a very successful stump grinding business in Dallas for over 20 years. He loved his work and the people he worked with. He worked and saved for his future and the future of his son and daughter. He worked hard for the life he wanted, and it showed. More recently Tait focused his energy into providing for his grandchildren who he loved very much. He will be remembered as a kind, honest, sincere, generous, dependable, thoughtful and loving man. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.He is preceded in death by his father Patrick Leon Anderson, his mother Darby Jo (Tait) Anderson and his sister Sarah Jo Neace.He has left behind to cherish his memory, his son Scott (Jacki) Anderson of Romulus, MI. His daughter Natalie Anderson of Dallas, TX. Granddaughter Myah Giles of Dallas, TX; Grandson Christopher Anderson of Dallas, TX; Granddaughter Kalyssa Anderson of Romulus, MI. His brother Rex (Mairelis) Anderson of Lapeer, MI and his sister Natasha (Brad) Hinton of Wylie, TX. His Niece Brianna Anderson of Richardson, TX; Niece Jordan Neace of Plano,TX; Niece Naidelis Ogando of Lapeer, MI, Niece Quincy White of Richardson, TX and one Nephew Patrick Hinton of Wylie, TX.

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Gerald McAteer - July 04, 1932 - March 07, 2022

Departed: 03/07/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: Gerald Edward McAteer was born July 4, 1932 making him an authentic "Yankee Doodle Dandy". He grew up in California and entered the U.S. Air Force at the age of 19. After having served in Vietnam twice as well as at many other bases both at home and abroad, Gerald retired from his Paralegal services in the A.F. He lived in many interesting places and finally landed in Carrollton. Before moving to Texas, however, he continued to help enlisted families by volunteering to oversee the drafting of their wills and legal documents. Gerald had a long and distinguished career in the USAF retiring as a Senior Chief Master Sergeant.Gerald was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years. However, he once again found love and married Jeri Evans whom he loved to the moon and back. She survives him. Gerald is also survived by his daughters, Jeri Lynn Brown and her husband Patrick and Cynthia Cardwell and her husband Bob; by a daughter in law, Robyn McAteer, by George Bond and his wife Christy, by Kathy and Todd Clark, and by Ron and Cynthia Evans. He is also survived by his brother Richard McAteer and his wife, Jan as well as his sister, Marilyn McAteer Lane. He leaves a number of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and beloved nieces and nephews.Gerald loved watching all sporting events on tv with his wife, and emailing on the computer, following his investments, reading his daily newspaper "cover to cover", playing dominoes, eating weekly at The Diner with his girls, talking by phone to numerous "buds" who continued to call him by his nickname, "Chief", and he loved his friends at Lakeview. Gerald could be found in church most every Sunday morning.Gerald had his share of ups and downs, good and bad, throughout his lifetime but he made the conscious decision to live each day fully.The family is thankful that he is at rest in heaven. He will be missed but his legacy lives on!

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Donna Garcia - May 12, 1958 - March 05, 2022

Departed: 03/05/2022 (Plano)

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Thierry Senioris - February 10, 1970 - February 25, 2022

Departed: 02/25/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Thierry Senioris.

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Gilbert Ferrer - June 06, 1965 - February 20, 2022

Departed: 02/20/2022 (Plano)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Gilbert Ferrer.

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Steven Kauffman - August 03, 1959 - February 15, 2022

Departed: 02/15/2022 (Plano)

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A Wide Range of Funeral Services

Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas offers a comprehensive range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of each family. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and celebrations of life, the funeral home provides personalized solutions that honor the memory of loved ones. The team works closely with families to create customized funeral plans that reflect the personality, interests, and spirit of the deceased.

Celebrating Life through Personalized Funerals

At Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas, the focus is on celebrating life and honoring the memories of loved ones. The funeral home's experienced staff works with families to create personalized funerals that reflect the personality, interests, and accomplishments of the deceased. From music and flowers to photographs and memorabilia, every detail is carefully considered to create a meaningful and memorable tribute.

A State-of-the-Art Facility

The Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas facility is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The state-of-the-art facility features spacious chapels, elegant reception areas, and modern amenities that cater to the needs of families during their time of loss.

Supporting Families through Grief

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, and Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas understands the importance of supporting families through their grief. The funeral home offers bereavement resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online resources, to help families navigate their emotional journey.

Premier Location in Plano, Texas

Conveniently located at 1611 N. Central Expwy., Plano, TX, 75075, Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas is easily accessible from major highways and nearby cities. The funeral home's prime location makes it an ideal choice for families living in Plano and surrounding communities.

A Commitment to Community Involvement

Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas is deeply committed to community involvement and supports various local organizations and charities. The funeral home's team members are actively involved in community events, fundraisers, and volunteer activities that benefit the local community.

Contact Us for Personalized Funeral Services

If you're looking for a compassionate and personalized approach to funeral services, contact Distinctive Life Funeral Homes Dallas today. The experienced team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide guidance, and support you through your time of need. Call us at [phone number] or visit our website at [website URL] to learn more about our services and how we can help you celebrate the life of your loved one.

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 may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a lasting tribute to the deceased and can be a valuable resource for genealogical research.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend of the deceased writes the obituary, although it can also be written by a funeral home or other organization. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral or memorial services, charitable donations, and any other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the individual's life. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs.

Can I include photos or other media in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include photos or other media, such as videos or audio recordings, with the obituary. This can help to personalize the tribute and make it more engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication. Typically, you will need to contact the publication directly or use their online submission form to provide the necessary information and payment.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, location, and length of the obituary. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, it is becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life is represented accurately.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that includes biographical information and often personal anecdotes.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humor or personal anecdotes can help to make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or difficult aspects of the deceased's life, it's best to approach them with tact and sensitivity. You may choose to omit certain information or frame it in a way that is respectful and compassionate.

Can I include quotes or poetry in an obituary?

Yes! Quotes or poetry can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the deceased's personality or legacy.

How long after death should an obituary be published?

The timing of publishing an obituary varies depending on cultural and personal preferences. Typically, it is published within a few days to a week after the person's passing.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes! With the rise of online memorials and social media, it's now possible to publish an obituary online only. This can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

What is an online memorial?

An online memorial is a digital space where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences for the deceased. It can be a permanent tribute that remains accessible for years to come.

How do I create an online memorial?

You can create an online memorial through various websites or platforms that offer this service. Some popular options include Legacy.com, Memorialize.com, and Facebook Memorials.

Can I update or edit an online memorial?

Yes! Most online memorials allow you to update or edit the content at any time. This can be useful for adding new photos or memories over time.

How long does an online memorial remain active?

The duration of an online memorial varies depending on the platform. Some remain active indefinitely, while others may expire after a certain period of time.

What is the purpose of an obituary archive?

An obituary archive is a collection of past obituaries that can be searched and accessed by researchers, genealogists, and family historians. It provides a valuable resource for understanding social history and tracing family roots.

How do I access an obituary archive?

You can access an obituary archive through various online databases or libraries that offer this service. Some popular options include Newspapers.com, GenealogyBank.com, and local library archives.

Can I use an obituary as a source for genealogical research?

Absolutely! Obituaries can provide valuable information about ancestors' lives, relationships, and migrations. They can be used in conjunction with other sources to build a more complete family history.

How do I preserve original copies of printed obituaries?

You can preserve original copies of printed obituaries by storing them in acid-free folders or albums, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider digitizing them as well to ensure long-term preservation.

Can I reprint or republish an existing obituary?

In most cases, yes! However, it's essential to obtain permission from the original author or publisher before reprinting or republishing an existing obituary.

What if I need help writing or editing an obituary?

If you need help writing or editing an obituary, consider consulting with a funeral home director, bereavement counselor, or professional writer who specializes in obituaries. They can provide guidance and support during this difficult time.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an LGBTQ+ inclusive obituary?

Yes! When writing an LGBTQ+ inclusive obituary, it's essential to respect the deceased's gender identity, sexual orientation, and relationships. Use language that is respectful and accurate, avoiding heteronormative assumptions or stereotypes.