Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens Obituaries

About Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens

Located in the heart of Havelock, North Carolina, Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens is a trusted funeral home that has been serving families in the community for years. With a commitment to providing compassionate and personalized service, Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens is dedicated to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Beautiful Setting for a Final Farewell

The funeral home is situated on 908 Lake Rd, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes, creating a peaceful atmosphere that allows families to reflect and celebrate the life of their loved one. The beautiful gardens and tranquil surroundings provide a sense of comfort and solace during a difficult time.

Funeral Obiturary Search

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Margaret Orientale - June 13, 1942 - May 20, 2021

Departed: 05/20/2021 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Margaret Orientale, 78, of Havelock, passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2021, at Carolina East Medical Center. Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home and Cremations, Havelock, NC.

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Barbara Ann Erdman - January 13, 1948 - August 07, 2017

Departed: 08/07/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Barbara Ann Erdman, 69, of Havelock, NC, passed away on Monday, August 7, 2017, at her home surrounded by her family.

Her funeral will be held at 3:00 PM, Friday, August 11, 2017 at Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock, with Rev. J.M. Durner officiating.

Barbara was a well-respected woman who was kind and caring with what she said. She had a big heart and saw the best in everyone. Barbara loved reading and sharing stories about her life with anyone who asked. She had wisdom beyond her years even in her youth.

Barbara loved her family and went out of her way for each member. She enjoyed cooking for them and spending quality time with them. Her family was a true source of joy to her and they brought happiness into her life more than anything else. For over 25 years Barbara was a devoted wife to her late husband Frank.

Barbara became a nurse while raising her 4 amazing children. She continued nursing for over 10 years where she extended her kindness to all those in her care. She loved to spend her time with various Retirement Communities. She also volunteered at Carolina Pines women auxiliary fire department.

She is survived by her sons, Christopher Erdman and wife Rachel, of Havelock; and daughter, Gina Theresa Erdman of Havelock; 7 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her father, Joseph Cosentino and mother, Theresa Walesiewicz; husband, Francis Erdman; sons, Joseph Edward Erdman and Jeffery Bryon Erdman.

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Loris "Larry" Deward Rogers, Jr. - March 04, 1945 - August 02, 2017

Departed: 08/02/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Loris, “Larry”, Deward Rogers, Jr., 72, of Havelock,  passed away on Wednesday, August 2, 2017, at his home.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, August 6, 2017 at Munden Funeral Home Cremations in Havelock with Jason Leighton officiating.

Larry is survived by his sisters, Linda Geissinger and husband Richard, of Newport, and Ellen Wolf  and husband Greg, of New Bern; and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, Loris Deward Rogers Sr., and mother, Ellen Louise Jones; brother, Stanley Rogers.

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Charles "Rick" Richard Williams - October 09, 1946 - July 25, 2017

Departed: 07/25/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Charles "Rick" Richard Williams, 70, of Havelock, NC, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 25, 2017, at Carolina East Medical Center in New Bern, NC.

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Annabelle McClendon Glassey - October 31, 1932 - July 17, 2017

Departed: 07/17/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Annabelle Hall McClendon Glassey, 84, of Havelock, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2017, at her residence, surrounded by her loved ones.

Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2017, at 11:00 AM, at Munden Funeral Home & Cremations Mausoleum on 908 Lake Road, Havelock, NC  28532, with Pastor Ed Renfrow officiating.

Annabelle was born October 31, 1932, in Morehead City, NC. Her extensive knowledge of cars came from over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry.  She also enjoyed plant and vegetable gardening, along with large annual cookouts for family and friends.  She was the daughter of the late Jeffie O. Benson and Theodore Roosevelt Hall.

She is survived by her husband of 12 years, Fred Glassey, and his children Alan Glassey of Havelock and Vicki Basham of Raleigh; her son, Raymond Franklin McClendon, Jr. and wife Robin of Morehead City; three grandsons: Phillip McClendon of Seguin, TX, Raymond F. McClendon III of Poway, CA and Derrek McClendon of Paulden, AZ; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her first husband, of 30 years, Raymond Franklin McClendon.

Visitations will be Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 10:00, one hour prior to the service.

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Hope Wilson Sawyer - April 25, 1924 - June 25, 2017

Departed: 06/25/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Hope Bell Wilson Sawyer, 93, of Angier, NC, passed away Sunday, June 25, 2017, peacefully with her family by her side. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2017, at 11:00 am, at the New Life Church, 2911 Old Cherry Point Road, New Bern, NC, with Rev. Robert Bragan presiding. Interment will follow at Rainbow United Methodist Church Cemetery, 3150 Highway 58 S, Snow Hill, NC

Hope was born in Pitt County, NC to the late Benjamin Franklin Bell and Emma Mae Phillips. She  loved helping people and never met a stranger. She was known in her community and Church for her home decorating and cooking.  She loved working in her beautiful flowers and gardens. She was a member of the Piney Grove Chapel Baptist Church in Angier, NC.

Hope is survived by her son; Mickey Wilson of Bayboro, NC; daughter, Judy McGhee and husband Charles McGhee of Angier, NC; granddaughter Kim Lazenby and husband Douglas Lazenby of Clayton, NC, Cathy Pippin and husband Bryon Pippin of Riverview, FL; great grandsons, Tyler Lazenby and wife Kymberlea Lazenby and great great grandsons, Holden Sawyer Lazenby of St. Petersburg, FL, and Charles Brent Inscore and wife Brandi Inscore of Buffalo Junction, VA; Great grand daughters, Brooklyn and Ashlyn Pippin of Riverview, FL; Many nieces, nephews and extended family.

She is preceded in death by her father, Benjamin Franklin Bell and mother Emma Mae Phillips; 4 brothers and 7 sisters.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

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Alice Marguerite Tommasone - May 26, 1937 - June 17, 2017

Departed: 06/17/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Alice Marguerite Tommasone, 80, of Havelock, passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2017, at her home.

She is survived by her husband, Carlo Anthony Tommasone of Havelock, NC; daughters, Tonie Rene Tommasone and Mary Rachelle Tommasone of Havelock, NC, and Tina Marie Tommasone of Jacksonville, NC; sister, Joyce McMurdo of Jacksonville, NC; granddaughter, Brittany Elizabeth Tommasone of Havelock, NC; and niece, Tracy McMurdo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Ollie Myers.

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June Harvest - May 28, 1954 - June 10, 2017

Departed: 06/10/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: June Dolly Harvest, 63, of Newport, passed away on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at the Pruitt Trent Hospice of New Bern.

A private service will be held at a later date.

June is survived by her daughters; Amanda Andersen of Newport and Corey Perkins of AZ.; sister, Phyllis Archer; nephews: Gary Kluesener, Joshua Harvest, Bobby Harvest, David Hedgepath, Bill Hedgepath and Phillip Hedgepath; and nieces, Betty Sue Cherry and Renee Wall.

She is preceded in death by her son, Justin Perkins; brother, Robert Harvest; sister, Susan Hedgepath.

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Margo Francine Lilienthal - April 26, 1951 - May 21, 2017

Departed: 05/21/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Margo Francine Lilienthal, 66, of Havelock, passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2017 at her home.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Margo is survived by her husband, Lawrence Lilienthal, of Havelock; daughter, Jennifer Joann Buck of Batavia, NY; son, Lawrence James Lilienthal, Jr. of Savannah, GA; step daughters, Ann Marie Blake of Cheshire, CT and Kristine Morris of Littleton, NH; brothers, Bruce Hall of Meriden, CT and Timothy Bennett of Columbus, OH; sister, Gail Ieraci of Meriden, CT;  grandsons, Ryan Lilienthal and Brandon Buck; granddaughters, Amanda Joy Lilienthal, Carley Lilienthal and Camryn Buck.

She preceded in death by her father, Robert Brown and mother Naomi Clements.

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Erron Lee LaPointe - August 16, 1977 - May 20, 2017

Departed: 05/20/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Erron Lee LaPointe, 39, of Havelock, passed away on Saturday, May 20, 2017, at Vidant Medical Center. Services are to be announced for Erron Lee LaPointe

Erron graduated from Havelock High School and later served his country in the North Carolina National Guard.

He is survived by his daughter, Rayna Lee LaPointe of Fox Lake, Il; parents, Alvin and Lorna LaPointe of Havelock, NC; brothers, Chason LaPointe of Havelock, NC; John Willmon, Dean Willmon, and James Willmon all of Texas; and numerous cousins and friends.

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Linda Kay Bergener - August 06, 1952 - March 31, 2017

Departed: 03/31/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Linda Kay Webb Bergener, 64, of Havelock, passed away Friday, March 31, 2017 at the Crystal Coast Hospice House in Newport.

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Coleen Marie Jackson - February 13, 1957 - March 23, 2017

Departed: 03/23/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Coleen Marie Jackson, 60, of Havelock, passed away on Thrusday, March 23, 2017.

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Amelia Darlene McCallister - January 15, 1966 - March 16, 2017

Departed: 03/16/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Amelia Darlene McCallister, 51, of New Bern, passed away Thursday, March 16. 2017.

Her funeral service will be held 2:00 PM, Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church, Havelock, with Pastor William Boykin officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Oaks Cemetery.

Amelia lost her battle with cancer at home, surrounded by her family and friends. She was employed by Carolina East Medical Center in New Bern for 17 years as a radiology technician. She was truly loved by co-workers, friends and family.

She is survived by her father, Lewis Alvdor  McCallister and mother, Mollie Jean Lewis of Newport; daughter, Ashley Nicole Woolard; brother, Lewis  “Buddy” A. McCallister; sister in law, Miriam McCallister; nephew, Tyler McCallister; and mother in law, Emily Scoppe.

Visitation will be 6:00 PM TO 8:00 PM, Monday, March 20, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church. Online condolences can be made at www.mundenfhhavelock.com

Arrangements are by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations, Havelock, NC. 908 Lake Road Havelock, NC  28532 252-444-6248

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Stephen G. McVicker - October 30, 1930 - March 14, 2017

Departed: 03/14/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Stephen G. McVicker, 86, of Havelock, passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2017 at Carolina East Medical Center in New Bern.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 2:00 PM, on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Havelock. Visitation will be held beginning at 1:00 PM, prior to the service.

Steve was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 22 years, completing a tour of duty in Korea and two in Vietnam. He retired as a Master Sergeant. In 1972, Steve began work as a Communications Engineer at Cherry Point and retired after 21 years of additional service to MCAS Cherry Point. Steve volunteered for many years with the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the Cherry Point Naval Hospital, and Annunciation Catholic Church and School. He also served as Grand Knight for the Monsignor Frank J. Howard Council of the Knights of Columbus and held many positions in The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA). Steve enjoyed bird carving, painting, and many other craftsman hobbies.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Trudy; son, William S. McVicker of Wilmington; daughter, Karen Brown and husband Bruce of Wilmington; brother, Robert McVicker; daughter-in-law, Jacie McVicker; and four grandchildren, Chelsea, Drew, Megan and Dana.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Stephen Lawrence McVicker and Mildred Beale McVicker; son, Stephen Patrick McVicker; and brother, Donald McVicker.

Steve’s loving ways and great sense of humor will be missed by his many friends and relatives.

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James Ussery - July 31, 1947 - February 15, 2017

Departed: 02/15/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: James Ussery, 69, of Havelock, passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at his home.

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Belinda Peay - January 01, 1940 - February 08, 2017

Departed: 02/08/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Belinda “Bennie” Baird Peay, 77, of Havelock, passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at the Carolina East Medical Center in New Bern, NC.

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Mary Pasayan Terhune - January 28, 1950 - January 22, 2017

Departed: 01/22/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Mary Pasayan Terhune, 66, of Havelock, departed this walk of life on Sunday, January 22, 2017 at Carolina East Medical Center surrounded by her family.

A Memorial service will be held 2:00 pm Friday, January 27, 2017 at Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock with Pastor Alvaro Torres officiating.

She was born in the Philippines to the late Candido Pasayan and Eulalia Mahinay. She had a passion for many things and lived her life to the fullest enjoying gardening, solitaire, shopping, and Elvis Presley. All these things she enjoyed with a smile but her truest love and devotion was reserved for her family. Nothing exceeded the passion she had for her husband and four daughters and that love will live in the hearts of those privileged to have known her and been a part of her life.

She is survived by her husband and best friend, William G. Terhune of 41 devoted years; four daughters, Linilyn G. Ballarta, Mary Joy Terhune, Carlena Michelle Monroe, and Jennifer Terhune Brunson; two brothers, Leonardo Pasayan and Benancio M. Pasayan; nine grandchildren, Hannah, Estuardo, Simone, John Rey, Eugenio, Lilian, Leilani, George and Seth; two great grandchildren, Kadence and Ian.

She was preceded in death by her father Candido Pasayan, and mother, Eulalia Bastes Mahinay; four brothers, Bonifacio M. Pasayan, Genaro M. Pasayan, Anescio M. Pasayan, and Antonio M. Pasayan; three sisters, Teofista P. Fiel, Mary P. Terhune, and Eva M. Pasayan. Online Condolences may be made to www.mundenfhhavelock.com Arrangements are by Munden Funeral Home and Cremations, Havelock, NC 908 Lake Road Havelock, NC  28532 252-444-6248

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Ernest A. Berg - January 11, 1953 - January 20, 2017

Departed: 01/20/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Ernest A. Berg, 64, of Newport, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2017, at Cherry Point Bay.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, January 24, 2017, at Munden Funeral Home & Cremations Chapel, Havelock, NC.

Ernest was in the New Jersey National Guard. He also had a long career as an automotive glass installer.

He is survived by his daughter; Kristi Berg; stepdaughter, Misty Wilson; stepson, Daryle Newsome; granddaughter; LillyAnna; sisters, Janet Brodowicz and husband Casimir "Kaz" and Patricia Mena; 3 nephews and 4 nieces.

He is preceded in death by his father, Ernest Berg and mother, Pauline Good; and sister, Eva Rheude.

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Judith M. Higdon - June 06, 1941 - January 19, 2017

Departed: 01/19/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Judith Maxine Higdon, 75, of Harlowe, passed away Thursday, January 19, 2017 at Carolina East Medical Center.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm Monday, January 23, 2017 at Munden Funeral Home Chapel in Havelock with Rev. Joe Moody officiating.

Judith was a fantastic cook who could cook anything.  She would feed anybody and welcome them in her home if they were need.  She loved to sew and knit.  She could do anything and everything.  Everyone that came to her was considered family, Judith would help in any way she could.  She absolutely loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren dearly.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will truly be missed by all who knew her.

Judith is survived by her husband of 55 years Jerald “Jerry” Higdon; son, James Pelfrey (Deana) of Greensboro, NC; daughter, Jamie Higdon (Richard) of Spring City, TN; son, Jerry Higdon (Karen) of Smithfield, NC; and son, Jeffrey Higdon (Melanie) of Smithfield, NC; nine grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; sister, Dot Reed.

She was preceded in death by eleven brothers and sisters.

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Robert Matthew Cahill - November 06, 1931 - January 14, 2017

Departed: 01/14/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” Matthew Cahill, 85, of New Bern, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2017 in his seventh fight against cancer.

A funeral mass will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at the Annunciation Catholic Church.

Robert was born in the Bronx, New York, on November 6, 1931, to Robert and Florence Cahill. He served in the US Marine Corps at MCAS, Cherry Point, until 1954. He worked as an Import/Export Manager in Manhattan until his retirement. He returned to the area in 2008, residing in Carolina Pines, where he picked up the game of golf. He was an avid youth volunteer serving as Scout Leader, Coach, Team Manager, various Youth League boards, and PTA President.  He enjoyed playing card games, especially playing gin with his best friend Louie.

He is survived by his wife, Eleonore, of 58 years; daughters, Kate and Patti; sons, Rob, Tom and Matt; He was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

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Charles H. Blankenship - March 04, 1937 - January 11, 2017

Departed: 01/11/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Charles “Chuck” Henry Blankenship, 79, of Havelock, passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at Carteret Health Care, following an extended illness.

His funeral will be held 2:00, Saturday, January 14, 2017 at the Trinity Presbyterian Church with Pastor Tim Havlicek officiating. Visitation will be 1:00-2:00, prior to the service. Interment will follow at the Forest Oaks Cemetery, Havelock.

Charles was born March 4, 1937 in Jackson, Alabama and dedicated his life to serving his country, community and family.  He retired as a Master Sergeant, with 22 years in the Marine Corps. He then held various positions in civil service and private industry, supporting the military. He previously served as a City of Havelock Administrator and past President of Havelock Civitan Club. He was also a current member of the Trinity Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his wife, of 51 years, Betty Blankenship; daughters, Sandra Danak and husband Zachary, and Lisa Marie Fontenot; son, Kenneth Blankenship and wife Gloria; grandchildren, Andrew Danak and fiancée Leah Dew, Lindsay Danak, Amy Blankenship Capiallo, Ashley Valentine; 6 great grandchildren; sister, Martha Peacock; and sister-in-law, Sadie Fell.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Henry Blankenship and mother, Mamie Emogene Blankenship; sister, Trudi Clarke; 4 half sisters and 3 half brothers.

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Bernice Amaral Strange - July 13, 1934 - January 07, 2017

Departed: 01/07/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Bernice Amaral Strange, 82, of Havelock, NC,  passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2017, at the Carolina East Medical Center, New Bern, NC.

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David Magda - Unknown - January 06, 2017

Departed: 01/06/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: David Magda, passed away on Friday, January 06, 2017. Online condolences can by made at mundenfhhavelock.com Arrangements are by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations, Havelock 908 Lake Road Havelock, NC  28532 252-444-6248

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Richard L. Vincent - May 09, 1933 - January 05, 2017

Departed: 01/05/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Richard Vincent, 83, of Havelock, NC, went to be with the Lord,  Thursday, January 5, 2017 at the Carolina East Medical Center, New Bern, NC.

Richard served 32 years of active military duty in the United States Marine Corps.  He proudly defended our country to include three tours in the Republic of Vietnam.  He retired as an officer achieving the rank of Captain.

Richard’s true loves were fishing, hunting, gardening and woodworking. He was exceptionally skilled as he hunted rabbits, dove and deer aboard the Marine Corps Air Station and surrounding hunting clubs.  He spent many hour’s bass fishing in the local creeks and especially King Mackerel and Flounder fishing at Cape Lookout.  His gardens were always amazing with vegetables a plenty. In the later stages of his life, he mastered the skill of woodworking by turning blank pieces of wood on a lathe into beautiful bowls with exceptional finishes.

Visitation will be 6:00 – 8:00 pm on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC. The funeral service will be held 11:00 am, Thursday, January 12, 2017 at the Community Baptist Church, Newport, NC, with Pastor Billy Knox officiating. Burial service will be immediately following at Amariah Garner Cemetery on Nine Foot Road, Newport, NC.

Richard is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary A. Vincent; daughter, Linda V. Haller; sons, Robert “Bobby” Vincent, Richard Thomas “Tommy” and wife Iris M. Vincent, of Havelock; grandchildren, Richard F. Haller, III, of Newport, James Thomas Vincent of Havelock, Geremy, Jessica and Jacob Lee Vincent of Georgia; great granddaughter, Aryonniah Kae Haller and 7 other great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Helen Blanche Harper Vincent, and father: Francis Marion Vincent.

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Janice Wright - September 30, 1948 - January 05, 2017

Departed: 01/05/2017 (Havelock)

Obituary Preview: Janice Wright, 68, of Havelock, NC passed away on Thursday, January 05, 2017 at the Vidant Medical Center.

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Personalized Funeral Services

At Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens, every family is treated with care and compassion. The experienced staff takes the time to understand the unique needs and wishes of each family, working closely with them to create a personalized funeral service that honors their loved one's memory. From traditional funerals to cremation services, Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens offers a range of options to suit every family's preferences.

A Variety of Funeral Options

Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens understands that every family is unique, and therefore, offers a variety of funeral options to cater to their individual needs. These include:

- Traditional funerals with visitation and burial

- Cremation services with memorialization options

- Graveside services for those who prefer a more intimate gathering

- Pre-planning services for those who wish to make arrangements in advance

Caring Staff and Facilities

The staff at Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens are dedicated professionals who are committed to providing exceptional care and support to families during their time of need. The funeral home's facilities are modern, clean, and well-maintained, ensuring that families feel comfortable and supported throughout the funeral process.

Community Involvement

Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens is deeply rooted in the Havelock community and is committed to giving back to the people they serve. The funeral home participates in local events and charities, demonstrating their dedication to supporting the community beyond just providing funeral services.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, and Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens recognizes the importance of providing ongoing support to families during this difficult time. They offer grief counseling services, support groups, and online resources to help families navigate the grieving process.

Contacting Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens

If you're in need of funeral services or would like to learn more about the options available at Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens, please don't hesitate to contact them. You can reach out by phone, email, or visit their website to get in touch with their caring staff. Remember, they're always here to help you through your time of need.

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 is usually published in a newspaper, online obituary website, or funeral home's website.

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 sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. Funeral homes or obituary writers may also assist with writing the obituary.

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, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about the funeral service, memorial donations, and other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important information. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 1-2 paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased. This can be a nice way to personalize the obituary and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Some newspapers may accept submissions online or via email.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life is celebrated in the way they want. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that celebrates the person's life and achievements.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including humorous stories or anecdotes can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased.

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

The time it takes for an obituary to be published can vary depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some may publish immediately, while others may take several days or even weeks.

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

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary, contact the newspaper or online platform directly to request corrections. They will usually do their best to make changes promptly.

Are there any costs associated with publishing an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online platforms charge fees for publishing obituaries. These fees can vary widely depending on the publication and the length of the obituary.

Can I publish an obituary online for free?

Yes, there are several online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary for free. These may include websites like Legacy.com or Tributes.com.

How long are online obituaries archived?

The length of time that online obituaries are archived can vary depending on the platform. Some websites may keep them available indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I include links or videos in an online obituary?

Some online platforms allow you to include links to other websites, social media profiles, or videos in an online obituary. This can be a great way to share more information about the deceased or provide additional context.

What is a memorial donation?

A memorial donation is a gift made in memory of the deceased to a charity or organization that was important to them. This can be specified in the obituary as an alternative to flowers or other forms of condolence.

How do I notify social security about a death?

In the United States, you should notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) as soon as possible after a person's passing. You can do this by calling 1-800-772-1213 or contacting your local SSA office.

Do I need to obtain multiple copies of a death certificate?

Yes, it's often necessary to obtain multiple copies of a death certificate for various purposes such as settling estates, filing insurance claims, and notifying government agencies.

How long does it take to get a death certificate?

The time it takes to receive a death certificate can vary depending on the state and locality where the death occurred. Typically, it takes several days to several weeks to receive certified copies.

Can I write an obituary for someone who died many years ago?

Yes, you can still write an obituary for someone who passed away many years ago. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and share their story with others.

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

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

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including quotes or poems that were meaningful to the deceased can add depth and personality to the obituary.

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

If you're unsure about including certain information in an obituary due to privacy concerns or sensitivity issues, it's best to err on the side of caution and omit it or consult with family members before publishing.

Can I update an existing obituary if new information becomes available?

If new information becomes available after an obituary has been published, you can usually update it through the original publication or online platform where it was first posted.