Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service Obituaries

Understanding the Importance of Funeral Services at Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

When a loved one passes away, it can be a difficult and overwhelming experience for those left behind. During this challenging time, it's essential to have a trusted and compassionate funeral home to guide you through the process of saying goodbye. Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service, located at 211 North Main Street, Graham, NC, 27253, is dedicated to providing exceptional funeral services that cater to the unique needs of each family they serve.

A Brief History of Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service has a rich history of serving the Graham community and surrounding areas. With years of experience, their team has developed a deep understanding of the importance of personalized funeral services that honor the lives of loved ones. Their commitment to excellence and dedication to families has earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted funeral homes in the region.

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

Aragorn Laish - September 16, 1943 - April 18, 2022

Departed: 04/18/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Aragorn Laish, 78, of Chapel Hill, NC passed away at Brookshire Nursing Center in Durham, NC on Monday, April 18, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Dean Nester - February 16, 1957 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Dean Thomas Nester was born on February 16, 1957 to the union of Wavie and Aaron Nester in Mt. Airy, NC.

Dean received his formal education at Hopewell High School in Hopewell, VA. He furthered his education at Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, NC.

Dean accepted Christ at an early age and was united with Faith Fellowship Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Lenoir City, TN.

He was the owner of Nester Auto Brokers until he became disabled.

In his leisure he enjoyed working on and showing antique and classic cars.

Dean Thomas Nester departed this life on April 13, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents Aaron Nester and Wavie Nester; and brother Reford Nester.

He leaves to cherish his memory his sisters Shelby Marshall, Mt. Pleasant, SC and Frances Smith, Alvin, TX; and brother Kenneth Nester, Lenoir City, TN; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The Funeral will be at Faith Fellowship Cumberland Presbyterian Church 14025 Hwy 70 E Lenoir City, TN 37772 on Wednesday, April 27 at 1pm for the Visitation with the Celebration of Life at 2pm.

View Full Obituary

Charles Holt - January 29, 1948 - April 12, 2022

Departed: 04/12/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Charles Holt, 74, of Reidsville, NC passed away at Hospice of Alamance in Burlington, NC on Tuesday, April 12, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Nadine Shuler - February 01, 1917 - April 09, 2022

Departed: 04/09/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Nadine Avis Nickens died peacefully on April 9, 2022 in her son's home in Chatham County, North Carolina. She was 105 years old.

She was born February 1, 1917 in D'Lo, Mississippi as the first child of Robert Leo Nickens and Lilian Mae Johnson. Her father's work in forestry led to a childhood in remarkable locations. She shared vivid stories of the beauty of the landscapes of Três Barras, Santa Catherina, Brazil; Tenmile, Oregon; and Norman's Castle, Abaco, The Bahamas.

She attended St Joseph's Academy in St Augustine, Florida, then lived with her aunt Modena Holland to graduate from high school in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She moved to Florida where she worked for Southern Bell.

She met Georgia Representative Laurier Sheffield Bush of Mitchell County, Georgia and married him on June 11, 1940 in Columbia, Florida. They lived on their farm, about nine miles south of Camilla, Georgia. Her son Laurier Ross was born in 1941. The family moved to Homestead, Florida in the 1950s. There, Nadine and Laurier divorced. Nadine met Benjamin (Ben) Allen Shuler and they were wed on July 17, 1956. They lived at 235 NW 19th St in Homestead for many years.

Nadine worked for Southern Bell. After retirement, she took up painting, mentored by Florida painter A. E. Backus. Her work delighted the friends and family who received her canvases of Georgia and Florida landscapes, poinciana trees, and increasingly abstract works.

After Ben died in 1993, Nadine moved to Sun City Center, Florida where she met Charles Hugh Draper. They married July 4, 2002 and enjoyed cruises and travel.

As they became less active, Nadine's niece Constance Pettit helped them live comfortably and safely. Her gift of care meant Nadine could be at home through her 105th birthday. Her spiritual life was evident in her kindness and warmth. She had an ability to uplift and inspire friends and strangers with her positive thinking. She was a Religious Science Practitioner for over 65 years, and was trained during Ernest Holmes' life by his cousin, Idella Chadwick. Every morning she read the Daily Guides of Science of Mind Magazine and did what she called her "work," praying for everyone and the world.

Nadine was predeceased by her parents; stepmother Abigail (Abbie) Collins; husbands Laurier Sheffield Bush, Benjamin (Ben) Allen Shuler, and Charles Hugh Draper; stepchildren Eugene Dale Shuler and Dan Draper; her brother Robert Leo Nickens Jr., and one step-granddaughter.

Surviving is her son, Laurier Ross Bush and his wife Marie of Apex, NC, her stepchildren Christine Dimitrijevich, Arlene Byrne, Lisa Draper, Kathan Draper, Bruce Draper, and Charles (Reg) Draper; three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, and nine step-great-grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Dennis Barnette - October 18, 1947 - April 08, 2022

Departed: 04/08/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Dennis Monroe Barnette passed away on Friday, April 8, 2022 at the age of 74, in his hometown of Haw River, NC. He was born October 18, 1947 to Morris Edward Barnett and Vera Lake Woods Barnett.

Dennis attended Eastern Alamance High School before leaving to join the Army in 1964. He served in the Army for 6 years in Vicenza, Italy. He enjoyed his work as a Shriner clown. He was known as Uncle Witty to all the children who adored him. He volunteered many hours as a mentor for Big Brothers, and for the Veteran Affairs in Pittsburg, PA where he lived most of his life.

He was a great conversationalist; always eager to learn about new things. He was an entrepreneur; he owned his own construction business for many years. He was an avid reader, explorer, traveler, and most importantly to him, he was a musician - a self-proclaimed American singer/songwriter.

During his lifetime, he was married to two beautiful, intelligent women. In his later years, he returned home to his family in Haw River, NC. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Craig Barnett. He is survived by his brothers, Morris E. Barnett, Jr. “Bucket”, and Ronald (Vickey) Barnett; nieces Rhonda VanDusen and Cynthia (Max) Greer; several great nieces and nephews; and many dear cousins.

Memorial Service will be held Friday, April 22, 2022 at 2:00pm at Haw River United Methodist Church.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Wanda Hudgins - October 14, 1953 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Wanda Catherine Hudgins was a caring mother, GranGran, sister and friend. She left this world at the age 68 surrounded by family and loved ones. Cat was born to Crafton and Pearl Dawkins on October 14th, 1953. She loved to cook, spend time with family and entertain friends. Cat was proceeded in death by her husband Jack Hudgins, parents Crafton and Pearl Dawkins, and brother Tony and Steve Dawkins. Cathy is survived by her children Ernie (Cindy) and Eddie (Jill) Raymond; grandchildren Perrin, Micheal, Isaiah, Tobias, and Lizbeth; brothers Jim (Anita) and Dan (Kim) Dawkins, and sister Penny Reynolds; along with many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

View Full Obituary

Kenneth Williams - August 10, 1952 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth Michael Williams Kenneth Williams, age 69, died Thursday morning at Duke University Medical Center after a week of critical illness with loving family by his side. He had been in declining health for several years.

He is survived by a son, Jacob Lee Williams. Although Ken was an only child, he had many cousins; in particular Roger, Jesse, Kelly and Zane and his wife Lori Gauldin, who all considered him a brother from a different mother. He had great friend in Bruce Lewis, whom he considered his brother. He had a great friend, confidant, and mentor in his former business partner, Doug Cozart. He also had a special relationship with Jacob’s mother and her husband, Crystal and Henry Piarrot, as they worked together for years to co-parent Jacob.

He was born in Danville, VA but spent a good portion of this life in the Triad Region of NC. He also lived in California, Florida, and Tennessee. While he experienced many different career opportunities in his life: textile worker, truck driver, bus driver, heavy equipment operator, sheet metal mechanic, and even a successful bail bondsman, his passion was always music. He enjoyed singing, playing guitar, and writing music. He did a stint as a late-night radio DJ and toured with the rock group Emerson, Lake and Palmer as support staff. In his later years he moved to Nashville where he immersed himself in the songwriter’s scene and performed several times at The Bluebird Café on open mic night. He was a creative free spirit to say the least and loved to share colorful stories of his many adventures that were always sure to get a good laugh.

Although there will be no formal ceremony at this time, Ken requested that anyone wanting to honor his passing should do so in the way in which he enjoyed living his life, having a good time with family and friends and raise a glass for a toast. At a later time, the family will host a gathering to spread his ashes. The song popularized by Vince Gill says it best “Go rest high on that mountain, Wish I could see the Angels faces when they hear your sweet voice sing.”

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Jill Sides - December 03, 1971 - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Jill Sides, 50, of Durham, NC passed away at Duke Regional Hospital in Durham, NC on Wednesday, April 6, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Oscar Armando Henriquez - January 06, 1974 - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Oscar Armando Henriquez, de 48 años, de Burlington, NC falleció el lunes 28 de marzo de 2022.

Oscar nació el 6 de enero de 1974, de la unión de José Antonio Henríquez y Enma Gutiérrez en El Salvador. Era de fe católica.

Oscar Armando Henríquez se unió en santo matrimonio con Reina Gladys Menjivar el 10 de julio de 2010 en Burlington, NC. Su unión fue bendecida con 3 hijos.

Fue empleado por CMC como operador de montacargas durante 25 años.

Habrá una misa a las 11:00 a.m. el jueves 7 de abril de 2022 en la iglesia católica Blessed Sacrament 1620 Hanford Road Graham, NC 27253 con una visita previa a las 10:00 a.m. El entierro seguirá a la misa en Alamance Memorial Park 4039 S Church Street Burlington, NC 27215.

Arreglos confiados a Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service de Graham, NC.

(Oscar Armando Henriquez, 48, of Burlington, NC passed away on Monday, March 28, 2022.

Oscar was born on January 6, 1974, to the union of Jose Antonio Henriquez and Enma Gutierrez in El Salvador. He was of the Catholic faith.

Oscar Armando Henriquez was united in holy matrimony with Reina Gladys Menjivar on July 10, 2010, in Burlington, NC. Their union was blessed with 3 children.

He was employed by CMC as a Forklift Operator for 25 years.

A Mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church 1620 Hanford Road Graham, NC 27253 with a Visitation held prior starting at 10:00 A.M. The Burial will follow the Mass at Alamance Memorial Park 4039 S Church Street Burlington, NC 27215. Arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.)

View Full Obituary

Candis Fuquay - July 11, 1959 - March 27, 2022

Departed: 03/27/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Candis Fuquay, 62, of Eden, NC passed away at home on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Judith Ross - September 25, 1942 - March 26, 2022

Departed: 03/26/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Judith Ross, 79, of Albemarle, NC passed away at Hock Family Pavilion in Durham, NC on Saturday, March 26, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Janice Craven - February 27, 1957 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Janice Craven, 65, of Mebane, NC passed away at Alamance Regional in Burlington, NC on Friday, March 25, 2022.

She is preceded in death by her husband Wayne Craven; parents Elmer & Hazel Crawford; daughter Melissa Craven; and 2 grandsons Dustin & Darren Davis.

She is survived by her 2 sons Gary & Travis Craven; 6 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; and 2 sisters.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Myrtle Kelly - May 31, 1931 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Myrtle Kelly, 90, of Cameron, NC passed away at home on Thursday, March 24, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Debra Ohneck - June 08, 1957 - March 19, 2022

Departed: 03/19/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Debra Ohneck, 64, of Chapel Hill, NC passed away at UNC Chapel Hill Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC on Saturday, March 19, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Gary Butler - June 12, 1964 - March 19, 2022

Departed: 03/19/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Gary Butler, 57, of Siler City, NC passed away at home on Saturday, March 19, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

John Williams Jr. - December 06, 1946 - March 18, 2022

Departed: 03/18/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: John Williams Jr., 75, of Cary, NC passed away at UNC Hospice of Pittsboro, NC in Pittsboro, NC on Friday, March 18, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Louis Cook - October 23, 1948 - March 18, 2022

Departed: 03/18/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Louis Fredrick Cook of Chapel Hill, NC died at home on March 18, 2022 after a long illness. He was 73 years old.  The son of Raymond B. and Anna LaBelle (Carlson) Cook, Louis was a native of Cincinnati, OH and lived the past four decades in the Triangle area.

Louis’ favorite occupations were sports, helping people, and anything that had to do with his children.

He loved playing basketball, softball, and golf until he couldn’t.  Then he enjoyed watching them.  Duke Basketball, Cincinnati Reds baseball, and everything his children played were at the top of the list.

Louis capped off his professional career with his favorite job — supervisor of the North Carolina Family Health Resource Line, a free information clearinghouse to assist families with health questions or concerns.  The Resource Line, a program of the UNC School of Public Health’s Department of Maternal and Child Health.

Most importantly, he loved his children fiercely and was a great dad.  He wanted to share the important things in life with them — unconditional love and support, good music, jumping ocean waves, ghost crabs and crab legs, Durham Bulls Baseball, the language of sarcasm, the love of a good cat, how to drive, being kind, keeping an eye out for beauty in the world, to be proud of themselves, and to always look out for each other.  In the end, he taught them that choosing to be vulnerable is an act of great strength and courage.

Louis is survived by his daughter, Eleanor “Laney” Anna Smyth Cook, and son, Elliot Louis Totten Cook, both of Chapel Hill, NC and their mother, Leah Totten.  He is also survived by his siblings: Ray Cook of Hendersonville, NC; Linda Gannon of London, England; Gary Cook of Sharp’s Chapel, TN; and Susan Kern of Cincinnati, OH, as well as his nieces and nephews.

The family is receiving visitors at home, and as Louis requested, will host a gathering this summer to celebrate his life.  Please contact the family at cooklouisf@gmail.com if you would like more information.

View Full Obituary

Lisa Penny - January 20, 1973 - March 18, 2022

Departed: 03/18/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Lisa Penny, 49, of Smithfield, NC passed away at WakeMed Hospital in Raleigh, NC on Friday, March 18, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

William Craven - November 30, 1947 - March 17, 2022

Departed: 03/17/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: William Moses Craven was born on November 30, 1947 to the union of William Lewis and Edna Craven in Mebane, NC.

Williams Moses received his formal education at Eastern High School.

William Moses was united in holy matrimony with Pamela C. Craven in Dillon, SC. Their union was blessed with 3 children.

He was employed by Mebane Lumber Co. as a Trim Saw Operator until he retired.

In his leisure, he enjoyed Western movies, classic cars and time with his grandson Tyler.

William Moses Craven departed this life on March 17, 2022. He was preceded in death by his father William Lewis; mother Edna Craven;  brothers Bernice Craven and Wayne Craven; and sister Darlene Craven.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Pamela Craven; daughters Cindy Craven, Sabrina Craven, and Tina Cagle; 7 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 3 Furbabies; 2 sisters; and one brother-in-law.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Doris Chappell - July 07, 1942 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Doris Chappell was born on July 7, 1942, to the union of Geraldine and John Byrd in Alamance, NC.

Doris Byrd was united in holy matrimony with Ronnie Chappell on Halloween. Their union was blessed with 3 children.

She was employed by BI as a Secretary.

Doris Chappell went to Heaven on March 16, 2022. She was preceded in death by her parents Geraldine and John Byrd; husband Ronnie Chappell; and son Mark Chappell.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children Dale Chappell and Keith Chappell; grandson Josh Chappell; and great-grandson Caedon Chappell.

View Full Obituary

Tyler Heinze - March 29, 1993 - March 15, 2022

Departed: 03/15/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Tyler Heinze, 28, of Burlington, NC passed away at home on Tuesday, March 15, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Brian "B.T." Wade Thomas - February 17, 1969 - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Brian “B.T.” Wade Thomas, 53, of Mebane, NC passed away at home on March 14, 2022. B.T. was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Donna Thomas, also of Mebane NC. He is survived by his daughter, Makayla Lain Thomas from Graham, NC. He worked for over twenty years doing maintenance and painting with his long time friend Todd Peeler, of Sunshine Realty.

B.T. could often be found having a cold beer with his many friends at his favorite neighborhood bars including Smokey’s, Lucky’s Saloon, Frank’s Lounge, and Plaza Tavern. B.T. enjoyed fishing, spending time with his dog, Roxie, and loved his Harley Davidson Road King.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC. A celebration of life will be held at Smokey’s bar 234 W Harden Street Burlington, NC 27215 on Saturday, March 26, 2022.

View Full Obituary

Terrance Batts - December 24, 1964 - March 13, 2022

Departed: 03/13/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Terrance Batts, 57, of Raleigh, NC passed away at WakeMed Hospital in Raleigh, NC on Sunday, March 13, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

Rebecca Glenn - March 04, 1944 - March 12, 2022

Departed: 03/12/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Rebecca W. Glenn, 78, passed away Saturday, March 12, 2022 at her home in Bahama surrounded by her family.

She was born in Durham to the late John E. White and Luna White Bailey.

Rebecca was a life-long resident of Durham, moving to Bahama in 1981. She graduated from Northern High School and was a former employee of CCB and American Tobacco Co before opening Glenn Tires Sales in 1984 with her husband. She was an active member of Bahama Women’s Club for many years and a member of Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church.

Rebecca was preceded in death by her husband of over 54 yrs., Walter Glenn.

Rebecca is survived by her son, Greg Glenn and wife, Ada; daughter, Kristan Glenn; grandchildren, Jeffrey Glenn and wife, Rachel, Daniel Glenn; and her great grandson Greyson (Doodlebug) Glenn all of Bahama.

A Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 15th at 6:00 pm at Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church.  A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.

View Full Obituary

Beatrice Cox - April 16, 1950 - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Graham)

Obituary Preview: Beatrice Cox, 71, of Burlington, NC passed away at Hospice of Alamance in Burlington, NC on Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service of Graham, NC.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Personalized Funeral Services at Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

At Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service, they believe that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individual's personality, interests, and accomplishments. Their experienced funeral directors work closely with families to create customized funeral services that not only pay tribute to their loved one but also provide comfort and support during a difficult time. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial ceremonies, and celebrations of life, Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service offers a range of options to suit every family's needs.

The Benefits of Pre-Planning with Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

While it may seem difficult to think about planning a funeral in advance, doing so can provide peace of mind and financial security for your loved ones. Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service offers pre-planning services that allow individuals to make their own funeral arrangements, ensuring that their wishes are respected and relieving their family of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief. By pre-planning with Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service, you can also lock in costs at today's prices, protecting your family from future inflation.

Cremation Services at Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

For families who prefer cremation, Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service offers a range of options to suit their needs. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service or celebration of life, their experienced team will guide you through the process with compassion and care. They understand the importance of respecting the wishes of your loved one while also providing support and guidance during a difficult time.

The Importance of Grief Support at Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, and the grieving process can be long and challenging. At Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service, they recognize the importance of providing ongoing support to families during this difficult time. Their team offers resources and guidance to help families navigate the grieving process, including bereavement support groups, counseling services, and online resources.

Community Involvement at Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service is deeply committed to the Graham community and surrounding areas. They believe in giving back to the community that has supported them over the years and participate in various local events and charities throughout the year. By getting involved in community activities, they aim to build strong relationships with the people they serve and make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Contacting Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home in Graham, NC, look no further than Piedmont Cremation & Funeral Service. Their experienced team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have or provide guidance during a difficult time. You can reach them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or visit their website at [website URL]. Alternatively, you can stop by their funeral home at 211 North Main Street, Graham, NC, 27253, where their friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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 serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with family, friends, and community.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries play a significant role in honoring the life of the deceased, providing closure for those who are grieving, and serving as a historical record of the person's life. They also help to notify others of the passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or crematories may also assist in writing and publishing 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, education, military service, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral services, memorial donations, and other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications 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 connect with the person who has passed away.

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

You can usually submit an obituary through the newspaper's website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Online platforms may have a submission form or email address where you can send the obituary.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may have a flat fee. Online platforms may offer free or paid options.

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

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. However, this depends on the publication or platform's policies and procedures.

How long will my obituary remain online?

The duration that an obituary remains online varies depending on the platform or publication. Some may keep it available indefinitely, while others may remove it after a certain period.

Can I write my own obituary?

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 story is told in your own words.

What if I don't want an obituary published?

If you prefer not to have an obituary published, you can make your wishes known to your family and friends. However, it's essential to consider that an obituary can serve as a way to inform others of your passing and provide closure.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary is a celebration of the person's life, so including humorous stories or anecdotes can help capture their personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or controversies surrounding the person's life or death, it's best to approach these topics with tact and discretion. You may choose to omit certain details or focus on more positive aspects of their life.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in the obituary as a way to honor their loved one's memory.

How do I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

To ensure accuracy, fact-check all information before submitting the obituary. Verify dates, names, and other details with family members or official records.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, including quotes or poems that were meaningful to the person who has passed away can add depth and emotion to the obituary.

How do I deal with conflicting opinions about what to include in an obituary?

In cases where there are differing opinions within the family or among friends, try to find common ground and focus on celebrating the person's life rather than dwelling on disagreements.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Yes, social media can be a powerful tool for sharing an obituary and reaching a wider audience. You can post a link to the online obituary or share a summary of the person's life on platforms like Facebook or Twitter.

How do I preserve an online obituary for future generations?

You can save a copy of the online obituary as a PDF or printout for future reference. Additionally, some platforms offer archiving services that ensure the obituary remains accessible over time.

Can I create a digital archive of my loved one's life?

Yes, you can create a digital archive by collecting photos, documents, stories, and other memorabilia related to your loved one's life. This can serve as a lasting tribute and resource for future generations.

How do I cope with grief when writing an obituary?

Writing an obituary can be a difficult task during a time of grief. Consider enlisting support from family members or friends, taking breaks when needed, and focusing on celebrating your loved one's life rather than dwelling on your loss.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider seeking assistance from a funeral home, crematory, or professional writer who specializes in crafting tributes. They can provide guidance and support during this challenging time.

Can I use an online template to write an obituary?

Yes, there are many online templates available that can help guide you in writing an obituary. These templates often provide suggested formats and prompts to make the process easier.