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About Gowen-Smith Chapel
Gowen-Smith Chapel, located at 850 Union Street, Shelbyville, TN, 37160, has been a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the community for many years. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Gowen-Smith Chapel provides a serene and comforting environment for families to say goodbye to their loved ones. The funeral home's dedicated team of professionals is devoted to helping families navigate the difficult process of planning a funeral or memorial service, ensuring that every detail is taken care of with care and precision.
A Legacy of Compassion and Care
At Gowen-Smith Chapel, the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences a family can face. That's why they are dedicated to providing exceptional care and compassion to each family they serve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the funeral home's team is committed to guiding families through the funeral planning process with sensitivity, respect, and professionalism.
Gowen-Smith Chapel
Funeral Obiturary Search
Recent Funeral Home Obituaries
Veronica Lynn "Tootie" McAnally - November 11, 1959 - April 22, 2024
Rachel Marie Miller - January 02, 1937 - March 13, 2024
James Randy Inmon - June 30, 1954 - March 05, 2024
Marsha Lorraine Spence - July 12, 1950 - February 29, 2024
Steven Paul Maldonado - June 25, 1974 - January 16, 2024
Margaret Aline Majors - November 26, 1930 - January 14, 2024
James Millard King - October 22, 1934 - January 07, 2024
Doris Lee Johnson - October 30, 1926 - January 07, 2024
Robert Paul Reese - September 27, 1947 - December 30, 2023
Brian H Rodriguez - October 17, 1995 - December 03, 2023
Thomas Sloan Dollar - September 29, 1951 - November 04, 2023
Berle Lee Shavers - April 02, 1953 - November 01, 2023
Nancy Ann Harmon - November 04, 1947 - November 01, 2023
Howard Oaky Crosslin - November 07, 1939 - September 17, 2023
Norma Jean Coats - July 13, 1933 - August 25, 2023
John William Hasparis - February 11, 1948 - August 19, 2023
Lula Mae Jordan - August 24, 1930 - June 25, 2023
Jonathon 'J.T.' Thomas Nelson - June 14, 1992 - June 20, 2023
Tammy Louise Freeman - October 25, 1970 - May 23, 2023
Wilma Sue Massey - March 23, 1945 - April 03, 2023
Marlene Ramelle Burton - August 24, 1982 - March 26, 2023
Patricia Ann Owens - June 28, 1951 - March 19, 2023
James Norman Pollock Sr. - October 20, 1951 - March 14, 2023
Trinton Lee Treadway - February 14, 2008 - February 18, 2023
Barbara Jean Angus - September 04, 1944 - December 24, 2022
Funeral Services Offered
Gowen-Smith Chapel offers a wide range of funeral services to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of each family. These services include traditional funerals, cremation services, memorial services, and graveside ceremonies. The funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with families to create a personalized service that honors the life and legacy of their loved one.
Facilities and Amenities
The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The chapel features a spacious sanctuary with ample seating, as well as private visitation rooms for families who desire a more intimate setting. Additionally, Gowen-Smith Chapel offers a variety of amenities, including a reception area for post-service gatherings and a selection of caskets, urns, and other funeral merchandise.
Pre-Planning Services
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Gowen-Smith Chapel also offers pre-planning services for individuals who wish to plan their funeral in advance. This thoughtful gesture can help alleviate the emotional burden on loved ones during an already difficult time. By pre-planning, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, and their family's financial burden is minimized.
Community Involvement
Gowen-Smith Chapel is deeply committed to the Shelbyville community and actively participates in local events and initiatives. The funeral home's staff believes that giving back to the community is an essential part of their role as caregivers and neighbors. Through their involvement in community programs and charities, Gowen-Smith Chapel demonstrates its dedication to supporting those in need.
Staff Profiles
The staff at Gowen-Smith Chapel is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and service to each family they serve. From licensed funeral directors to administrative support staff, every member of the team plays a vital role in ensuring that families receive the highest level of care and compassion. Get to know the staff at Gowen-Smith Chapel by visiting their website or stopping by for a tour.
Contact Information
If you're seeking more information about Gowen-Smith Chapel or would like to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced funeral directors, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or by visiting their website at [website URL]. The funeral home's office hours are [office hours], but they are available 24/7 to assist with any urgent needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an obituary?
An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial service arrangements.
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, preserving their memory and legacy for generations to come.
Who writes an obituary?
Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary or provide guidance on what information to include.
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 their personality, achievements, and charitable donations in lieu of flowers.
How long should an obituary be?
The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.
Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?
Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to upload photos, videos, or audio clips to accompany the written obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers.
How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?
Check with the specific newspaper or online platform for their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some may require you to submit through their website or email, while others may need a physical copy or phone call.
How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, word count, and any additional features like photos or online guestbooks. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars.
Can I write my own obituary in advance?
Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries in advance as part of their estate planning or as a way to reflect on their life and legacy.
What's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?
A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information like name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that provides a fuller picture of the person's life.
Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?
Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including humorous stories or personal touches can help capture the person's personality and spirit.
How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?
If there's sensitive or private information you'd rather not share publicly, it's best to omit it from the obituary or phrase it discreetly. Remember that the goal is to honor the person's memory without causing unnecessary distress to loved ones.
Can I include charitable donations or memorial contributions in an obituary?
Yes! Many families choose to suggest charitable donations in lieu of flowers as a way to continue the person's legacy and support a cause they cared about.
How long does it take for an obituary to be published?
The publication timeline varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some may publish same-day or next-day, while others may take several days or even weeks.
Can I edit or update an obituary after it's been published?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Check with the publication or online platform for their policies on making changes after publication.
What if I want to keep the obituary private or limited to certain individuals?
Can I reuse an obituary for multiple publications or platforms?
Yes! You can reuse the same obituary across multiple publications or platforms, but be sure to check each one's submission guidelines and formatting requirements.
What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?
Drafting an obituary can be overwhelming. Consider enlisting the help of a trusted friend or family member, or seeking guidance from a funeral home or professional writer.
Can I include quotes, poems, or other literary elements in an obituary?
Absolutely! Incorporating meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics can add depth and personality to the obituary.
How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?
What if I need help writing an obituary due to language barriers or literacy issues?
Contact local community organizations or places of worship for assistance. Some funeral homes also offer translation services or writing guidance.
Can I use social media to share an obituary?
Absolutely! Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share news of a loved one's passing and connect with others who want to pay their respects.
How do I preserve an online obituary over time?
Many online platforms archive obituaries indefinitely. You can also save a copy of the text and photos locally on your computer or print out a hard copy for safekeeping.
What if I'm concerned about privacy issues related to publishing an online obituary?
Can I create an online memorial separate from an official obituary?
Yes! Online memorials can serve as a dedicated space for sharing memories, photos, and condolences beyond what's included in the formal obituary.