Forest Hills Memory Gardens Obituaries

Introduction to Forest Hills Memory Gardens

Forest Hills Memory Gardens, located at 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA, 24210, is a trusted funeral home that has been serving the community for years. With a commitment to providing compassionate and personalized service, Forest Hills Memory Gardens helps families navigate the difficult process of saying goodbye to their loved ones. In this article, we will delve into the services and amenities offered by Forest Hills Memory Gardens, as well as what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A History of Compassionate Care

Forest Hills Memory Gardens has a rich history of providing exceptional care to families in need. Their experienced staff is dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where families can feel comfortable and supported during a difficult time. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorializations, Forest Hills Memory Gardens offers a range of options to suit every family's unique needs and preferences.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Bonnie Mabel Click - August 12, 1925 - September 17, 2022

Departed: 09/17/2022 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Bristol, TN

Bonnie Mabel Click, age 97, passed away on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Johnson City Medical Center. She spent most of her life living in West Virginia before moving with her husband to the South Holston Lake area in 1979. Bonnie had a large family and she worked everyday making a home for them. She was a woman of simple pleasures and enjoyed quilting, preparing large dinners for company, walking and just sitting on the porch talking. Prior to the death of her husband, John, Bonnie enjoyed travelling in the mountains and at the beach.

Bonnie was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, John, parents Bill and Mattie Stevenson, daughters Marie Ward and Teresa Lynn Tunnell.

She is survived by her sons Johnny of Tampa, FL, Cecil and wife Linda Lee of Fair Bluff, NC, Gene of Bristol, TN, Bill and wife Linda of Bradshaw, WV, and James and wife Karen of Iaeger, WV, daughter Lisa Murray and husband Lester of Bristol, TN, 18 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM on Tuesday September 20, 2022, at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service; 19415 Lee Highway; Abingdon, Va. 24210. A graveside service will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens.

The family of Bonnie Mabel Click is in the care of Farris Funeral Service and Crematory; 19415 Lee Highway; Abingdon, Va. 24210 (276-623-2700).

Those wishing to offer condolences online may do so by visiting farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register.

View Full Obituary

Ricky Dean Gilbert - November 28, 1955 - August 24, 2022

Departed: 08/24/2022 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Ricky Dean Gilbert, age 66, passed away on August 24, 2022, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Rick was born in Benham, KY on November 28, 1955. He was a graduate of Jenkins High School and attended Clinch Valley Community College.

Rick worked for Jewell Ridge #12 mine from 1973 until 1983, and for Jewell Smokeless in Vansant until retirement. During retirement, Rick was a consultant for Sun Coke. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoors man. Rick was a member of Abingdon Bible Church. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Rick is survived by his loving wife of 48 ½ years, Sharon Lynn Gilbert, one son, Jeremy Eric Gilbert and wife, Joy of Knoxville, TN; one daughter, Mary Elizabeth (Liz) Burson and husband, Jason of Abingdon; four grandchildren, Lary Emma Dollar, Corbin Dean Gilbert, Layton Ella Dollar, and Justin Paul Gilbert.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 28, 2022, from noon until 1:00 p.m. at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon VA 24210. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Paul Bufford officiating. Entombment will follow in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum at Forest Hills Memory Gardens.

View Full Obituary

Doris Ann Yeary Cox - April 28, 1936 - April 11, 2022

Departed: 04/11/2022 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Doris Ann Yeary Cox, age 85, of Abingdon, Va., passed away on Monday, April 11, 2022, at her home. She was born April 28, 1936, to the late Bass and Faye Yeary in Wise County, Va. Doris was a telephone operator during her early years but was primarily a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

In addition to her parents, Doris was also preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, David C. Cox; brother, Roger Yeary; and sister, Kaye Riner.

She is survived by four children: Mark Cox and wife, Renee, of Abingdon, Va.; Terri Christian and husband, Mike, of Bristol, Va.; Kelley Johnson and husband, Brian, of Meadowview, Va.; and Kim Altizer and husband, Greg, of Charlotte, N.C.; nine grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 16, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service with Kimberlee Stevens officiating.

The family would like to express a special thanks to the staff of Caris Hospice, Dr. Mark Handy, and Kimberlee Stevens.

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guestbook. The family of Doris Ann Yeary Cox is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory, 427 E. Main St., Abingdon, Va. 24210 (276-623-2700).

View Full Obituary

Frances Blevins Turley - October 05, 1932 - November 20, 2021

Departed: 11/20/2021 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Frances Blevins Turley, age 89, born in Abingdon, Va., lived in Illinois for 27 years, then returned to her hometown of Abingdon. She then worked at H.P. King in Bristol, Va. and then went on to work at Bristol Compressors for 17 years before retiring in 1995. She spent her retirement years helping others and cooking for family gatherings. Having time with her brothers and sisters was of great importance to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Blevins and Lucy Hess Blevins; six sisters; three brothers; and her husband, Kenneth R. Turley.

She is survived by three children: James E. (Cheryl) Turley of Galesburg, Ill.; Barbara (Tim) McCaleb of Springfield, Miss.; and Kevin R. Turley of Bristol, Va., who was by his mother’s side as a cargiver at the time of her passing; sister, Jean Price of Abingdon, Va.; six grandchildren, Jarrod Anderson, Erin Anderson, David Turley, Sarah Lipe, Whitney McCaleb, and Graham McCaleb; great grandson, Carson McCaleb; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, and great nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, November 24, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Forest Hills Memory Gardens with the Rev. Barbara Doyle officiating.

View Full Obituary

Donald Fred White - June 05, 1931 - June 22, 2021

Departed: 06/22/2021 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Donald Fred White, age 90, passed away at his home in Bristol, Virginia, on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. He was born June 5, 1931, in Roanoke, Va. to the late Coy John White and Bessie Rock White, both of whom were from Washington County, Va. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1950 prior to employment with the Norfolk & Western Railroad for approximately one year.

In 1951 he enlisted in the United States Air Force for four years active duty, including eighteen months spent in the far east during the Korean War. Upon his release from active duty in 1955, he was awarded the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

After discharge from the USAF, he began to advance his education at Emory & Henry College in Emory, Va., graduating in 1958. Upon completing his education at E&H he was employed for three years by Kelly & Green Inc., in Bristol, Va. prior to beginning a 35 career with the Virginia Department of Transportation in Bristol, Va.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Margaret Ann Phelps White; daughter, Donna Sue Worley and husband Kevin W. Worley, of Bristol, Va.; and grandson, Christopher Ryan Worley of Nashville, Tenn.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 25, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Dr. Austin Cook officiating.

View Full Obituary

Monika Elizabeth Gargon - September 28, 1925 - June 21, 2021

Departed: 06/21/2021 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Monika Elizabeth Gargon, age 95, of Abingdon, Va. and formerly of Miami, Fla., passed away on Monday, June 21, 2021, at her home. She was born September 28, 1925, to the late Heinrich Stein and Marie Christine Christ Stein in Philadelphia, Penn. Monika was a former employee of the Pentagon where she worked on IBM machines. She retired as a legal secretary for Dave Beasley, Esq. in Miami, Fla. and relocated to Southwest Virginia in 2009.

In addition to her parents, Monika was also preceded in death by her husband, Edward Gargon; sister, Ida Desch; and brother, Hugo Stein.She is survived by five children: Russell Ingle and wife, Zona; Nancy Jones; Kenneth Ingle and Elizabeth; Mark Gargon and wife, Michelle; and Monika Pelly and husband, Michael; several grandchildren; and great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 24, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. at Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Pastor Roger Ball officiating.

View Full Obituary

Martha Jean Orr Vannoy - January 25, 1931 - May 13, 2021

Departed: 05/13/2021 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Martha Jean Orr Vannoy, age 90, formerly of Bluff City, Tenn., passed away on Thursday, May 13, 2021, at Elmcroft of Johnson City, Tenn. She was the youngest of eleven children born to the late Thomas Marion "Tom" Orr and Lola Edward Nelson Orr. She was a member of Bluff City United Methodist Church and the Blueridge Quilters Guild.

In addition to her parents, Jean was also preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Dewey Junior Vannoy; 10 siblings, Tom Ellis "Dooley" Orr, Robert Morton "Bud" Orr, William Glen "Powder" Orr, Charlie Eugene Orr, Virginia Irene "Sister" Blevins, James Mahlon "Si" Orr, Sam Cameron Orr, Eula Mae Hill, John Stuart Orr, and Betty Lee "Bett" Lawson; and son-in-law, C.A. Miller.

Jean is survived by her son, Jeffrey Vannoy and wife, Kristy, of Piney Flats, Tenn.; daughter, Leona Miller of Bristol, Tenn.; grandchildren, Aaron Streng, David Streng, Breanna Mills, Megan Stanley, and Nathan Vannoy; and six great grandchildren.

A cryptside service will be held on Monday, May 17, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Hwy., Abingdon, Va., with Chaplain Steven Spell officiating. Jean's grandsons will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Monday, May 17th from 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service.

Flowers will be accepted or a memorial contribution may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Elmcroft of Johnson City and Amedisys Hospice.

View Full Obituary

Sylvester Bradley Miller - October 01, 1930 - April 08, 2021

Departed: 04/08/2021 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Sylvester Bradley "Boo" "Jess" Miller, age 90, of Meadowview, Va. and formerly of High Point, N.C., went to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 8, 2021, at Valley Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.He retired from Food Country where he worked as a picker and he was a faithful attenderof High Point Baptist Church in Meadowview.

Sylvester was preceded in death by his parents, Graham Miller and Bertha Gobble Miller; two brothers, Maynard Miller and Willard Miller; and two sisters, Beulah Reynolds and Ruby Reynolds.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Geneva Pierce Miller; son, Dean Miller and wife, Whitney, of Blountville, Tenn.; daughter, Brenda Woods of Abingdon, Va.; three brothers, Herman Miller of Bristol, Va., Ballard Miller and wife, Peggy, of Abingdon, Va., and Wayford Miller and wife, Lois, of Meadowview, Va.; three grandchildren, Bill Fisher, Chris Fisher, and Tamara Woods; great granddaughter, Rebecca Harris; great-great granddaughters, Lily and Journee Harris; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

View Full Obituary

Juanita Robinette - December 18, 1933 - March 31, 2021

Departed: 03/31/2021 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Juanita Robinette, age 87, went to be with the Lord onMarch31, 2021, in Cape Coral, Fla. following a lengthy illness.

She was preceded in death by her father, Theodore Robinette; mother, Bertha Rasnake Robinette; first husband, James Edward Hearl; second husband, Benjamin Bagwell; and four siblings, James Richard Robinette, Paul Robinette, Lola Mae Davis, and Clara Dixon.

She is survived by her son, Ronnie Hearl of Cape Coral, Fla.; daughter, Patty Hearl-Ellison of North Ft. Myers, Fla.; brother, Ted Robinette, Jr.; sister, Sarah Burke; five grandchildren, Terry Lee Newsome, II, whom she thought of as a son, Brett and Clay Baldassarre, Haley and Cammy Knights, and one great grandchild.

View Full Obituary

Jimmy Dale Graham - December 16, 1948 - November 09, 2020

Departed: 11/09/2020 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Jimmy Dale Graham, age 71, of Glade Spring, Va., passed away on Monday, November 9, 2020, at Johnson City Medical Center. He was born to the late Douglas Winfield Graham and Hester Laverne Graham. In addition to his parents, Jimmy was also preceded in death an infant daughter, Crystal Michelle Graham; and three brothers, Jerry Graham, Johnny Graham and wife, Betty, and Joby Graham.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patsy Coleen Parson Graham; son, Robert Graham and wife, Cynthia; daughter, Patsy Clear and husband, Shawn; grandchildren, Leighann Lloyd and husband, Matthew, Douglas Graham, Sarah Moore and husband, Luther, Jimmy Saltz and fiancee, Diamond Walker, and Chloe Hall; great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Grace and Graham Alton Lloyd, Lilliana Madeline Moore, and Peyton Hall; sisters-in-law, Karen Graham and Brenda Graham; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. in the Glade Spring Baptist Cemetery on Forest Hill Dr. with Elder Kenneth Presnell officiating. Ryan Bunnell, Shawn Clear, Dean Price, Shane Haga, Matthew Lloyd, and Luther Moore will serve as pallbearers.

View Full Obituary

Angela Nadine "Angie" Faulks - October 08, 1973 - April 12, 2020

Departed: 04/12/2020 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Angela Nadine “Angie” Faulks, age 46, of Gray, Tenn., passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020, at her home. She was employed by Teleperformance in Bristol for nearly 10 years.

Angie was preceded in death by her father, Bobby Franklin Faulks; and brother, Bobby Franklin Faulks, Jr.

She is survived by her mother, Brenda Sue Widener Faulks, of Bristol, Tenn.; and fiancé, Jeffrey O’Dell Wallen, of the home. She loved herdachshunds, Ginger, Penny, and Dixie with all her heart.

View Full Obituary

Graham Frank Hughes - September 22, 1937 - December 13, 2019

Departed: 12/13/2019 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Bristol, VA

Graham Frank Hughes, age 82, went to be with the Lord on December 13, 2019.Graham was born September 22, 1937 in Russell County, VA. He had retired as a mechanic from Valleydale. Graham was member of Fellowship Chapel Church and enjoyed working on lawn mowers, fishing, and watching golf on television.

Graham was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Stella Jones Hughes and his brother, Billy Sam Hughes.

Graham is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Frances McInturff Hughes; sons, David Hughes and wife, Lisa of Bristol, TN, Mark Hughes and wife, Leanne of Georgia, and Mike Hughes and wife, Vickie of Bristol, TN; and daughter, Terry Slaughter and husband, Jim of Bristol, TN; sister, Polly Williams of Abingdon; thirteen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren also survive.

The funeral service will be conducted 2 pm Monday, December 16, 2019 in the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service with Pastor Scott Price officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be everyone from Fellowship Chapel Church. The family will receive friends from 1 pm until time for service.

View Full Obituary

Mary Alice Wright - March 13, 1955 - August 01, 2019

Departed: 08/01/2019 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Mary Alice Wright, age 64, of Bristol, Va. went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 1, 2019, at Grace Health Care. She was born to the late James Wright and Cathleen Sawyer Wright in Glade Spring, Va.

She is survived by her brother, David Wright and sister, Blanche Wright, both of Meadowview, Va.; special friends, Dana Barrett and Karen Doss.

View Full Obituary

Violet Hayter Wagner - April 30, 1926 - June 20, 2019

Departed: 06/20/2019 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Violet Hayter Wagner, age 93, of Abingdon, Va., passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2019. She was born April 30, 1926, to the late Zolly Alderson Hayter and Bertha May Garrett Hayter. Violet owned and operated Violet’s Drug Store in Meadowview and was a member of Meadowview United Methodist Church.

In addition to her parents, Violet was also preceded in death by her husband, Paul Frederick Wagner; three brothers, Elwood Hayter, Gail Hayter, and Ned Hayter; and three sisters, Edith Hayter, Ellen Parris, and Roselle Stuart.

She is survived by her nephew, Michael Hayter and wife, Susan, of Meadowview, Va. and several additional nieces and nephews.

A funeral ceremony will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Hwy., Abingdon, VA 24210, with the Rev. David R. Jackson officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens where Wayne Campbell, Michael Hayter, Garland Stuart, Wayne Talbot, Tom Taylor, and Jim Wallace will serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be held on Sunday at the Forest Hills Chapel from 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. prior to the service.

View Full Obituary

Lara Gladys Witt - December 06, 1924 - June 01, 2019

Departed: 06/01/2019 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Lara Gladys Bowman Witt, age 94, of Abingdon, Va. and formerly of Bastian, Va., went to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 1, 2019, at Commonwealth Senior Living. She was born December 6, 1924, to the late Stonewall Jackson Bowman and Minnie Frances Hayes Bowman. She attended Highlands Fellowship Church.

In addition to her parents, Lara was also preceded in death by her husband of 34 years, Fred Kenneth Witt; step-son, Kenny Witt; son-in-law, George Humphreys, Jr.; 14 siblings; and her former spouse, Walter Ray Burnopp, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Phyllis Burnopp Humphreys, of the home; three grandsons: Mark Humphreys of Mechanicsville, Va.; Greg Humphreys and wife, Amanda, of Abingdon, Va.; and Michael Witt and wife, Pam, of Christiansburg, Va.; four great grandchildren, Hailey, Jackson, Josianna, and Joseph Humphreys; two step-great grandchildren, Chase Witt and Casey Witt; and a special niece, Carolyn Callaway.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 10, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. at Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Pastor Craig Barber officiating.

View Full Obituary

Mamie Delores Plyler - August 11, 1922 - May 02, 2019

Departed: 05/02/2019 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Mamie Delores Plyler, age 96, of Bristol, Va., went to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at the Ballad Health Hospice House. She was born August 11, 1922, to the late Mose Lane and Arizona Spears Lane. Mamie retired in 1989 from Bristol Memorial Hospital where she worked in dietetics for 24 years. She was a member of Western Avenue Baptist Church in Statesville, N.C.

In addition to her parents, Mamie was also preceded in death by her husband, Buck Plyler; daughter, Ramona Kiser; three brothers, Grover Lane, Donald Lane, and Ellis Lane; and sister, Ivel Stacey.

She is survived by her son, Steve L. Plyler, of Bristol, Va.; three brothers: Frank D. Lane, of Blountville, Tenn.; Claude S. Lane, of Bristol, Tenn.; and Terry L. Lane, of Kingsport, Tenn.; two sisters, Swanee Deel of Grundy, Va. and Florna Sproles of Bristol, Va.; three grandchildren: Lisa Harvey, of Roanoke, Va.; Mark Kiser, of Bristol, Va.; and Kristi Kiser, of Arlington, Va.; son-in-law, Larry Kiser, of Bristol, Va.; and four great grandchildren, Kendyl Harvey, Jacob Harvey, Weston Kiser, and Sophia Kiser.

A funeral ceremony will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Hwy., Abingdon, VA 24210, with Dr. William Houck officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens where Jacob Harvey, Jay Harvey, Mark Kiser, and Weston Kiser will serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the Forest Hills Chapel.

View Full Obituary

Mary Magdalene Worley Mays - October 23, 1934 - December 19, 2018

Departed: 12/19/2018 (Abingdon)

Obituary Preview: Abingdon, Va.

Mary Magdalene Worley Mays, 84, passed on Wednesday, December 19, 2018, in Commonwealth Assisted Living. Mary was a graduate of Castlewood High School and lived in Russell County before moving to Abingdon in 1968.

She was a member of Victory Baptist Church and was preceded in death by her parents, Countis and Maude Sproles Worley; six brothers, Dewey, Ralph F., Paul, Harry, J.W., and Garnett; and sister, Margaret Gonzales.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Roy Mays; brother, Homer Lee Worley of McEwen, Tenn.; sister, Barbara Glover of Rockford, Ill.; special niece and caregiver, Lois E. Taylor; special nephew, Paul Worley; and many other nieces and nephews.

Visitation with the family will be held 6-8 p.m. Friday, December 21, 2018, in the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home with Dr. Austin Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Temple Hill Memorial Park with Rev. Myers Vicars officiating.

View Full Obituary

Personalized Funeral Services

At Forest Hills Memory Gardens, every funeral service is tailored to meet the individual needs of the family. Their experienced funeral directors work closely with families to create a personalized tribute that celebrates the life and legacy of their loved one. From choosing the perfect casket or urn to selecting music and flowers, every detail is carefully considered to ensure that the service is a fitting tribute to the deceased.

Cremation Options

Forest Hills Memory Gardens also offers a range of cremation options for families who prefer this type of disposition. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, their experienced staff can guide families through the process and help them make informed decisions. They also offer a range of urns and containers to choose from, ensuring that families can find the perfect way to honor their loved one.

Memorialization Options

In addition to funeral services and cremations, Forest Hills Memory Gardens also offers a range of memorialization options. From traditional grave markers and monuments to more modern options like benches and gardens, their experienced staff can help families find the perfect way to remember their loved one. They also offer a range of keepsakes and mementos, such as jewelry and ornaments, which can provide comfort and solace during a difficult time.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Forest Hills Memory Gardens are designed to provide comfort and convenience to families. Their chapel is warm and inviting, with ample seating for friends and family. They also offer a range of amenities, including parking, wheelchair accessibility, and audio-visual equipment for slideshows and videos. Additionally, their on-site reception center provides a convenient space for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one.

Pre-Planning Services

Forest Hills Memory Gardens also offers pre-planning services, which allow individuals to plan their funeral arrangements in advance. This can be a thoughtful gesture for loved ones, as it removes the burden of decision-making during a difficult time. Their experienced staff can guide individuals through the pre-planning process, helping them make informed decisions about their final wishes.

Community Involvement

Forest Hills Memory Gardens is committed to giving back to the community they serve. They participate in local events and charities, and offer educational resources and workshops to help individuals understand the importance of planning ahead. They also partner with local organizations to provide support and resources to those who have lost a loved one.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home in Abingdon, VA, consider Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Their experienced staff is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide support. You can reach them by phone at [phone number], or visit their website at [website URL]. They also invite you to visit their facility at 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA, 24210, where you can meet with their staff and learn more about their services.

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 passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need to know about the passing. They help to notify people of the funeral or memorial service arrangements, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences to the family.

Who writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by the family of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or obituary writer. The writer may gather information from the family, friends, and other sources to create a comprehensive and accurate tribute.

What information should be included in an obituary?

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

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and length of the tribute. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to gather information and craft a well-written obituary.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's possible to write your own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and accomplishments. Some people choose to write their own obituary as part of their estate planning or as a way to ensure their legacy is preserved.

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 basic information such as name, age, date of birth and death, and funeral service details. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides a biography and celebrates the person's life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

To submit an obituary to a newspaper, you'll typically need to contact the publication's obituary department directly. They will provide guidance on their submission process, which may include email or online submission forms, as well as specific requirements for content and formatting.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, many online platforms and funeral home websites allow you to publish an obituary online. This can be a convenient way to share the news with a wider audience and provide easy access to information about the funeral or memorial service.

How long do online obituaries stay posted?

The duration that an online obituary remains posted varies depending on the platform or website. Some may keep the obituary active for a few weeks or months, while others may archive it indefinitely.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the deceased.

What is the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or flat fees.

Is it necessary to include funeral service details in an obituary?

No, it's not necessary to include funeral service details in an obituary. However, doing so can be helpful for those who wish to attend the service or send condolences to the family.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This allows friends and family to make a donation in memory of the deceased.

How do I proofread an obituary for errors?

It's essential to carefully proofread an obituary for errors in spelling, grammar, dates, and other details. Ask multiple people to review the draft before submitting it for publication.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

Making changes to an already-published obituary can be challenging, especially if it's been printed in a newspaper. However, some online platforms may allow you to make corrections or updates.

What is the purpose of an obituary guest book?

An online guest book or condolence page allows friends and family to leave messages of sympathy and share memories of the deceased. This can be a comforting way for loved ones to express their feelings and connect with each other during a difficult time.

How long do I have to wait before publishing an obituary?

In most cases, there's no need to wait before publishing an obituary. In fact, it's often best to publish it as soon as possible after the person's passing to ensure that friends and family are informed in a timely manner.

Can I publish an obituary for someone who died years ago?

Yes, you can publish an obituary for someone who died years ago. This might be done as part of a family history project or as a way to honor their memory on a special anniversary or birthday.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for a veteran?

Yes, when writing an obituary for a veteran, it's customary to include information about their military service, including branch of service, rank, awards or decorations received, and any notable achievements during their military career.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including humorous stories or personal anecdotes can help bring the deceased person's personality to life and make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive details about the deceased person's life that you're unsure about sharing publicly, it's best to err on the side of caution and omit them from the obituary. Consult with family members or close friends if you're unsure about what information is appropriate to share.

Can I republish an existing obituary from another source?

You may need permission from the original publisher or copyright holder before republishing an existing obituary from another source. Be sure to check copyright laws and regulations before doing so.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you need help writing an obituary, consider consulting with a funeral home director or staff member who has experience with writing tributes. You may also hire a professional writer or seek guidance from online resources and templates.