Obituaries, US Funeral Homes

Adams Funeral Home Henryville Obituaries

Adams Funeral Home Henryville Obituaries

Welcome to Adams Funeral Home in Henryville

When faced with the loss of a loved one, finding a place that offers comfort, solace, and professional service is vital to the healing process. Adams Funeral Home in Henryville, Indiana, provides this and more, with a deep commitment to the community and a focus on compassionate care. Located on 209 S. Ferguson St., Adams Funeral Home has been a cornerstone in Henryville, serving families during their time of need with dignity and respect.

Comprehensive Services Tailored to Your Needs

Adams Funeral Home offers a wide range of services to meet the individual wishes of each family. They understand that honoring the life of your loved one in a way that is most meaningful to you is essential. From traditional funeral services and viewings to more modern celebrations of life, the staff is equipped to accommodate your personal preferences. Additionally, Adams Funeral Home provides pre-planning services, allowing individuals to outline their final wishes, thus relieving their families of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Adams Funeral Home Henryville

Address: 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN, 47126
Phone Number: (812) 294-1300
Get Direction: Google Maps Link

Funeral Obiturary Search

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

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Mary Menefee - March 23, 1947 - August 09, 2022

Departed: 08/09/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Mary Darlene (Moore) Menefee, 75, of Louisville, KY entered the arms of her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 9th, 2022, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Mary was born on Sunday, March 23, 1947, in Louisville, KY to Clarence and Evelyn (Newton) Moore. She was the 9th child out of a large family of 12 children.
On July 26, 1964, at the age of 17, Mary eloped with her sweetheart, Larry Menefee, who was also 17, to a Justice of the Peace in Tennessee. They just recently celebrated their 58 th anniversary. Mary was a 1965 graduate of Butler Traditional High School. She was an extremely hard worker with a full career. She retired from LG&E as a Supervisor in the Human Resources Benefits Department in 2000. Mary was saved as a little girl at a Billy Graham Crusade in Louisville and has been a member of Southeast Christian Church since 1981. Mary had a huge servant’s heart. Her life was focused on caring and providing for Larry, Scott, Matt and her very large family. She was always going out of her way to care for others instead of herself. She enjoyed being a grandma and spending time with her family. She was warm, friendly and outgoing. Mary was a very special wife, mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, and will be missed by all.
Mary is survived by her loving husband, Larry Menefee of Louisville, KY, who is going to miss her tremendously, her 2 sons, Scott (Barbara) Menefee and Matt (Dana) Menefee, all of Louisville, KY, 4 grandchildren, Chris, Josh, Paige, and Jaxon Menefee, and 1 great-granddaughter, Camryn Menefee, 9 siblings, Charles Moore, Bobbie (Mary Edna), Kenny (Kathy) Moore, Marceline Harmon, Darrell (Estella) Newton, Barbara (Howard) Kelley, Betty (Richard) Grammer, Sherri Moore, and Richard Moore. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Evelyn (Newton) Moore, infant son, Kelly Lloyd Menefee, 1 sister, Janell (Moore) Mount, and 1 brother, Ron Moore. Mary’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, August 20, 2022, at 1:00 PM at Fern Creek Christian Church, 9419 Seatonville Road, Fern Creek, KY, 40291. Her nephew, Senior Pastor of FCCC, Craig Grammer, will be directing the service. The family will receive visitors from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM prior to the service. Memorial donations, in honor of Mary, may be given to Fern Creek Christian Church, 9419 Seatonville
Road, Fern Creek, KY, 40291. Friends and family may log onto www.adamsfuneralhomeonline.com to leave an online condolence or view the memorial video tribute. The Adams Family of Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126 has been honored to serve the Menefee family.
View Full Obituary

Harry Sanders - July 12, 1938 - August 03, 2022

Departed: 08/03/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Harry Sanders, 84, of rural Charlestown, IN, passed away peacefully at 12:25 PM on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at Baptist Health Floyd Hospital in New Albany, IN.
Harry was born on July 12, 1938, in Scottsburg, IN to Vernard Sanders and Mary (Van Meter) Sanders. He was their only child.
Harry lived his life with loyalty, devotion, and exemplified service in the United States Airforce. He was a true patriot all his life, believing in God, Family, and Country.
On January 11, 1958, he married Johanna E. (Thuringer) Sanders who preceded him in death on July 5, 2011.
On March 8, 2012, he married Patricia (Hammond) Sanders who survives in Charlestown, IN.
Harry worked hard and farmed all his life with 2014 being the last time he farmed, however, farming never left his blood, asking his sons daily to report to him on how the crops were doing and taking drives to check on the fields. Harry was a member of Charlestown Independent Church, enjoyed traveling, taking trips in his R.V., water skiing, taking boat trips around the lake, and was a talented musician. He played the organ, piano, keyboard, trumpet, and liked listening to southern gospel music.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia Sanders of Charlestown, IN, 3 children, Diane (Rick Feather) Sanders of Charlestown, IN, Edward A. (Frankie M.) Sanders of Charlestown, IN, and Charlie (Erika) Sanders of Otisco, IN, 3 grandchildren, Aidan Sanders of Henryville, IN, Liam Sanders of Otisco, IN, and Adam Gardner, 2 bonus children, Steven Brown of New Washington, IN and Kathy Persinger of Madison, IN, 5 bonus grandchildren, 6 bonus great-grandchildren, and 1 sister in law, Ellen Zibell.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Vernard and Mary Sanders, wife, Johanna E. Sanders, and daughter, Sharrie Sanders.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville, IN., with burial to follow at Bunker Hill Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM, on Monday, August 8, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville, and after 10:00 AM on Tuesday at the funeral home.
In keeping with Harry’s generosity and giving to others, the family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in honor of Harry to the Gideons International, Samaritan’s Purse or donor’s choice ℅ Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126.
View Full Obituary

Diane L. Barthold - April 12, 1956 - July 20, 2022

Departed: 07/20/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Diane Louise Barthold, 66, of Underwood, IN, passed away at Clark Memorial Hospital at 8:30 AM on Wednesday, July 20, 2022.
Diane was born on April 12, 1956, in New Albany, IN to Charles and Wilma (Schultz) Corcoran, both who preceded her in death.
On October 13, 1984, at the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Henryville, IN, Diane married John E. Barthold, who preceded her in death on April 23, 2021.
A New Albany High School Class of 1974 graduate, Diane was a homemaker for most of her life. For 25 years she worked at Mom & Pops Cone Corner in New Albany, IN. She loved reading, playing her guitar, Bunko, and pressing flowers.
Diane is survived by her 3 children, Evan Roy Barthold of Memphis, IN, Anson Fredric Barthold of Corydon, IN, and Alice Dyan Barthold of Little York, IN, her precious grandson, Atlas Joseph Barthold, siblings, Connie (Danny) Doorgay of New Albany, IN, Bill (Mark) Corcoran of Cleveland, OH, Patty (Rodger) Byrne of New Albany, IN, and Cindy Corcoran of New Albany, IN and sister-in-law, Judith (Frank) Barthold DeSimone.
Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation. A graveside service will be scheduled for a future date.
View Full Obituary

Marcella M. Jordan - February 15, 1931 - July 08, 2022

Departed: 07/08/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Marcella M. Jordan, 91, a lifelong resident of Henryville, IN, passed away at 2:05 PM on Friday, July 8, 2022, at Baptist Health Floyd in New Albany, IN.
Marcella was born in her family’s cabin in the woods on a frosty, 32-degree Sunday, February 15, 1931, to Earl and Olive Grace (Dailey) Montgomery.
On December 21, 1952, in Henryville, IN, Marcella married Boyd E. Jordan.
Marcella worked in the office at the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant in Charlestown, IN, as a custodian at New Washington State Bank for numerous years and cleaned for many families in the Henryville area.
Marcella was a lifelong member of Henryville Presbyterian Church where she was a very dedicated, faithful servant who served on the session recurrently and gave her services in any capacity of the church that was needed. She was a caregiver to a neighbor whom she made feel like her own family member. She had a great sense of humor, a brilliant, sharp mind, was generous, enjoyed working crossword puzzles, reading, collecting all types of dolls, taking walks in her woods on her homestead and picking wild jonquils. She used her organized talent and expertise by serving over 30 years on the Mt. Zion Cemetery Board as the treasurer and currently still held that position. The two things that were the most important to her was her faith and her family.
Survivors include her loving husband of almost 70 years, Boyd E. Jordan of Henryville, IN, 3 sons, Mark D. Jordan of Henryville, IN, John C. (Deneen) Jordan of Memphis, IN, and Matthew S. Jordan of Henryville, IN, 2 grandchildren, Lindsy (Johnny Ortiz) Jordan and Mallory Jordan, 1 great grandchild, Zelda Ortiz, and 1 sister, Carol Scholl of Henryville, IN.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Grace Montgomery, 10 brothers and sisters.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville, IN. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM, the funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM and after the service, burial will take place at Mt Zion Cemetery.
The family requests memorial donations may be given in honor of Marcella to the Mt. Zion Cemetery, which was very dear to her heart, ℅ Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126.
View Full Obituary

Billie Elrod Heil - July 07, 1929 - July 07, 2022

Departed: 07/07/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Billie Elrod Heil, of Memphis, IN, passed away peacefully on her 93rd birthday celebration at 5:01 PM on Thursday, July 7, 2022, at her granddaughter’s home.
Bille was born on July 7, 1929, in Crothersville, IN. She is the daughter of Allen and Lavina Thomas and was raised by her grandmother, Ora Thomas.
She was a 1948 Crothersville High School graduate. She married Robert Elrod in 1948 and set up housekeeping in Henryville. Robert passed away in 1973.
Billie was a homemaker all her life and she loved taking care of her family. Billie and her husband moved to Ohio to own and operate five franchises of Famous Recipe Chicken until moving back home to Henryville.
Billie was a member of Henryville United Methodist Church and enjoyed walking with her friends in her walking group at the Henryville Forestry.
Survivors include 3 children, Deborah Kleehammer of Memphis, IN, Robert Elrod II and Gayla (Robert) Enzi, and 6 grandchildren, Tyra (Robert) Crotzer, Rylan (Melanie) Kleehammer, Barissa Tieken, Baranda (Eric) Fraley, Blake Elrod, and Pascha (Deep) Enzi, 7 great-grandchildren, Skyler Brooks, Bria, Ava Rhea & Bryson Tieken, Brennan Fraley, Braylan and Easton Kleehammer, 2 great-great-grandchildren, Mason Brooks and Aubri Walker.
She was preceded in death by 1granddaughter, Lorelei Enzi, 1 grandson, Kenton Elrod, 1 sister, Alene Bell, and 1 son-in-law, Danny Kleehammer.
Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville, IN. Visitation is from Noon until 4:00 PM, the funeral service will begin at 4:00 PM and after the service, burial will take place at Mt Zion Cemetery.
The family requests memorial donations may be given in honor of Billie to her church, Henryville United Methodist Church ℅ Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126.
View Full Obituary

Matthew Logan Acton - February 22, 1997 - June 11, 2022

Departed: 06/11/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Matthew “Matt” Logan Acton, 25, passed away at 5:19 PM on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY.
Matt was born on Saturday, February 22, 1997, in Jeffersonville, IN. He is the son of Robert R. Acton of Louisville, KY, and Nancy L. (Pace) Acton who passed away on March 4, 2019.
Matt graduated from Henryville High School in 2015.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Survivors include his daughter, Erika Acton of Jeffersonville, IN, his dad, Robert R. Acton of Louisville, KY, and 1 sister, DeeAnn (Paul) Clute of Underwood, IN, and 1 brother, Samuel (Beth) Acton of Louisville, KY.
Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday, June 17, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville, IN. Cremation will follow the visitation.
Cremation services have been entrusted to Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville.
The family requests memorial donations may be given in honor of Matt to the funeral home to assist with the funeral expenses ℅ Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126.
View Full Obituary

Karen Ray Ramsey - January 11, 1951 - June 05, 2022

Departed: 06/05/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Karen Ray (Miller) Ramsey, 71, of Henryville, IN, passed away on Sunday, June 5, 2022, at 5:35 PM at Baptist Health Floyd in New Albany, IN.
Karen was born on Thursday, January 11, 1951 in Glasgow, KY to Bub Nelan & Nancy (Duval Neeley) Miller.
Karen was a 1969 Charlestown High School class graduate. After high school, she went to Sullivan Business College and graduated with an accounting degree. Later in life, she graduated from Galen College of Nursing.
Karen worked at the Army & Air Force Exchange Services from 1971-1991 and for the family business, Ramsey Plumbing, for 30+ years doing their accounting.
On June 6, 1970 in Horsecave, KY at the Church of Christ, Karen married Romie L. Ramsey. Due to Karen’s passing, they were 1 day short of celebrating their 52 year anniversary.
Karen was a member at the Church of Christ in Horse Cave, KY. She was an excellent cook and everyone always requested her to cook their favorite dishes. She enjoyed reading romance novels, playing cards, collecting crystal glass & derby glasses, but most of all, she loved spending time with her family and camping with them at Nolin Lake.
She is survived by her loving husband, Romie L. Ramsey of Henryville, IN, 2 children, Carrie Ann (Dale) Hinson of Rockville, VA, Jeremy L. Ramsey of Henryville, IN, 3 grandchildren, Shyan M. (Patrick) Watts of Clarksville, IN, Miles T. Hinson of Rockville, VA, and Addison B. Hinson of Rockville, VA, 2 great grandchildren, Zaylee N. Watts and Kinsley Grace Watts, 5 siblings, Kasandra (Carl) Ramsey of Greenville, IN, Kathy Joe (Jessie) McPherson of Shepherdsville, KY, Debra Hotka of Elizabethtown, KY, Gary Miller (Eileen) of Charlestown, IN, and Michael (Debra) Miller of Elizabethtown, KY, along with numerous brother and sister in laws, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bub Nelan & Nancy (Duval Neeley) Miller.
Gary Thompson will conduct funeral services on Thursday, June 9th, 2022 at 11:00 AM at the Henryville funeral home.
Friends may visit from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday June 8th, 2022 and on Thursday, June 9th, 2022 from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM, all at Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory in Henryville, IN. Cremation Services have been entrusted to Adams Family Funeral Homes and Crematory. The family requests that the memorial donations be given to Henryville High School  c/o Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St, Henryville, IN 47126. Log onto www.adamsfuneralhomeonline.com to share an online condolence.
.
There are no gallery images. Adams Funeral Home Henryville Adams Funeral Home Henryville Adams Funeral Home Henryville
View Full Obituary

Norma E. Guernsey - December 03, 1929 - June 03, 2022

Departed: 06/03/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview:
View Full Obituary

Robert L. Scholl - June 20, 1936 - May 14, 2022

Departed: 05/14/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Robert L. Scholl, 85, a lifelong resident of Memphis, IN, passed away at 3:30 PM on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at his home.
Robert was born on Saturday, June 20, 1936, in Sellersburg, IN to Lloyd and Helen (Guernsey) Scholl, who preceded him in death.
On December 24, 1955, in Sellersburg, IN, Robert married Zelma J. (Amburgey) Scholl who survives in Memphis, IN.
Robert retired from Ford Motor Company on Fern Valley Road and farmed all his life. He loved to camp, travel, water ski, fish, and hunt.  He was a welder and was always tinkering and working on things. He was generous of his time always willing to help people. Most of all, he loved his family and grandkids.
Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Zelma J. Scholl of Memphis, IN, 2 children, Neal R. Scholl of Memphis, IN, and Noel R. (Julie) Scholl of Waddy, KY, 6 grandchildren, Matthew R (Brittany). Scholl, Todd R. Scholl, Christi D. (Steven) Richey, Tara E. (Cody) Bowen, Olivia N. (Garrett) Foss, and Tanner R. (Kristyn) Scholl, 6 great-grandchildren, 1 brother, Russell (Connie) Scholl of Memphis, IN, and 1 sister, Rosemary Scholl of New Albany, IN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Helen (Guernsey) Scholl, 1 brother, George Scholl, 1 sister, Ruth Grider, and daughter-in-law, Rhonda Scholl.
Memorial services will be conducted at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville, IN. Visitation is from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM with the memorial service at 6:00 PM. Cremation services has been entrusted to Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory, in Henryville.
The family requests memorial donations may be given in honor of Robert to Donor’s Choice ℅ Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126.
View Full Obituary

Dorothy Louise Jackson - November 12, 1929 - May 14, 2022

Departed: 05/14/2022 (Henryville)
Obituary Preview: Dorothy Louise (Hogue) Jackson, 92, a lifelong resident of Henryville, IN, passed away at 12:45 AM on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at Lake Pointe Village in Scottsburg, IN.
Dorothy was born on Tuesday, November 12, 1929, in Henryville, IN to John and Lillian (Wells) Hogue.
Dorothy was a 1948 Henryville High School graduate.
On August 18, 1951, in Jeffersonville, IN, Dorothy married Glenn Jackson.
Dorothy was a member of Willey’s Chapel United Methodist Church. She loved gardening, working in her flowers, and swinging on her front porch. She worked as a cook at Freda’s Restaurant in Sellersburg, Bonnie’s Restaurant and Teeny’s Restaurant, both in Henryville, IN.
Dorothy is survived by her 3 daughters, Glennda (John) Narron, Paula (Lee) Hargis, and Robin (Mike) Guthrie, all of Henryville, IN, 5 grandchildren, Shawn Narron, Kristie Metzger, Micah Guthrie, Parker Guthrie, Gavin Guthrie, two sisters, Anna Waggoner of Henryville, IN, and Mary (Billy) Collings of Underwood, IN.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and 2 brothers, John Hogue Jr. and Thomas Hogue.
Robin Embry will conduct funeral services at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville with burial to follow at Forest Grove Cemetery at Willey’s Chapel. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM at Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Henryville. Memorial donations may be given in memory of Dorothy to Donor’s choice c/o Adams Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 209 S. Ferguson St., Henryville, IN 47126
Log onto www.adamsfuneralhomeonline.com for online condolences and to view a pictorial memorial tribute.
.
There are no gallery images. Adams Funeral Home Henryville Adams Funeral Home Henryville Forrest Grove Cemetery at Willey's Chapel
View Full Obituary

A Dedicated Staff Offering Empathetic Support

The team at Adams Funeral Home is dedicated to providing guidance and support from the moment you walk into their facility. Each staff member is trained to handle arrangements with sensitivity and empathy, ensuring that all your needs are met. They are there to answer any questions you may have, offer guidance in planning a fitting tribute, and to take care of any special requests to personalize the services.

Comforting Facilities Designed with Families in Mind

Adams Funeral Home has thoughtfully designed its facilities to provide a tranquil atmosphere where families and friends can gather to honor their loved ones. The interior spaces exude calmness and provide a comfortable environment suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger crowds. The serene visitation rooms and peaceful chapel space are meticulously maintained to ensure a comforting experience during services and visitations.

An Integral Part of the Henryville Community

Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One

Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

Let our expert Funeral Speech Writers create a heartfelt & personalized eulogy, that captures the amazing life and memories of your loved one.

Learn more about our Professional Eulogy Writing Service today, and see how we can help you.

More than just a service provider, Adams Funeral Home is an integral part of the Henryville community. The staff take pride in their commitment to the region and are actively involved in supporting local initiatives and events. This community-focused approach reflects not only in the services they provide but also in the lasting relationships they build with the families they serve.

Advanced Planning Services

Understanding the importance of preparation, Adams Funeral Home offers advanced planning services. They appreciate that discussing end-of-life arrangements can be challenging, but also know the relief that comes with planning ahead. Their advanced planning options can be personalized and offer peace of mind, knowing that everything is taken care of according to your wishes.

Grieving Support and Resources

The care at Adams Funeral Home extends beyond the day of the funeral. They are well aware of the difficulties the bereavement period carries and provide resources for ongoing support. From connecting families with local grief support groups to providing educational materials on coping with loss, Adams Funeral Home remains a supportive presence even after services have concluded.

Personalized Tributes for a Lasting Memory

At Adams Funeral Home, the staff understands that personal touches can create a tribute that is both meaningful and healing. They offer various avenues to personalize services, whether it be through music, video tributes, customized printing options, or unique decor that reflects the interests and passions of your loved one. These personal details are what make a service at Adams Funeral Home truly honoring of the individual's life and legacy.

Contact and Accessibility

For those who need assistance or have questions, Adams Funeral Home makes it easy to get in contact. The home can be reached by phone, email, or through their website, where a wealth of information is available at your fingertips. Their facility in Henryville is conveniently located for those within the area and is accessible to ensure that everyone who wishes to pay their respects is able to do so comfortably.

A Place of Peace During Life's Most Difficult Times

Adams Funeral Home stands as a beacon of hope and a place of peace in Henryville. Their commitment to providing exceptional care and support to families during some of life’s most challenging moments is what sets them apart. When you turn to Adams Funeral Home, you can expect a professional, empathetic, and informative experience, tailored to honor your loved one as you begin the journey towards healing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of someone's death, often including a brief biography and information about the funeral service, visitation, and internment. It can be published in newspapers, online, or in other forms of media as a way to inform the community and honor the deceased.

What details are typically included in an obituary?

Obituaries usually include the full name of the deceased, their age at death, the date and place of death, a summary of their life achievements, information about their family members, and the date, time, and location of the funeral or memorial service.

How does one go about writing an obituary?

Writing an obituary involves collecting biographical details about the deceased, such as their date of birth, education, employment, achievements, and information about their surviving family members. It's essential to be respectful and factual, often following a traditional format or using templates available from newspapers or funeral homes.

Is there a difference between an obituary and a death notice?

Yes, there is a distinction. A death notice is a more straightforward, fact-based announcement of death that might include service information, whereas an obituary is usually more detailed and includes a biographical sketch of the deceased's life and accomplishments.

Who is responsible for writing an obituary?

Obituaries can be written by family members, friends, or funeral directors. Some people may also write their own obituaries in advance to ensure that the information included is accurate and reflects their wishes.

What are some tips for personalizing an obituary?

To personalize an obituary, you could include anecdotes, personal stories, the deceased’s favorite quotes, or their hobbies. It’s also meaningful to mention their character traits and the impact they had on others' lives.

How can I submit an obituary to a local newspaper?

To submit an obituary to a local newspaper, contact the paper's obituary department for submission guidelines including deadlines, length restrictions, and costs. Provide the completed obituary text, preferably in digital format, and any requests for accompanying photos.

What should I do if there's limited space for an obituary?

If space is limited, prioritize the most critical information: the announcement of death, key life highlights, family members, and service details. Consider an extended version for online platforms or a personal memorial website.

Are obituaries free to publish?

Publishing an obituary can incur a cost, usually depending on the newspaper's pricing structure, the length of the obituary, and whether a photograph is included. Online obituaries or notices on funeral home websites may be offered at lower prices or sometimes for free.

Is it necessary to disclose the cause of death in an obituary?

It is not mandatory to disclose the cause of death in an obituary. This decision is a personal one and should be made by the family based on their comfort level with sharing such details publicly.

Can you include charitable donations information in an obituary?

Yes, families often use obituaries to request that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a specific charity or cause important to the deceased. Include the charity's name and, if desired, contact information or a URL for donation.

How long after a death is an obituary typically published?

An obituary is generally published several days after a death, often before the funeral or memorial service. This timing allows friends and the broader community to be informed of the service details in time to attend.

Can an obituary be published online only?

Yes, obituaries can be published exclusively online on social media, memorial websites, or the digital versions of newspapers. This can be a cost-effective and immediate way to share the information.

What is the appropriate tone for an obituary?

The tone of an obituary should be respectful and reflective of the deceased's life. Many are written in a somber, straightforward manner, while some might include a sense of the deceased's humor or personality.

Are photographs typically included with an obituary?

Yes, it is common to include a photograph with an obituary. The photo should be a good likeness of the deceased and can help readers to recognize them and recall their memory fondly.

How can I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

To ensure accuracy in an obituary, double-check all factual information with reliable sources, such as family records or speaking directly with family members. Be particularly careful with names, dates, and locations.

What cultural considerations should be taken into account when writing an obituary?

Different cultures may have various traditions regarding death and obituaries. When writing an obituary, consider any specific cultural or religious practices, including mentioning events like wakes or shivas or avoiding particular phrases or details.

There are no legal requirements for publishing an obituary, but it is crucial to respect privacy and obtain permission from next-of-kin when sharing details. Additionally, avoid including sensitive personal information that could lead to identity theft or fraud.

Can I update an obituary after it has been published?

Once printed in a newspaper, an obituary cannot be changed, but online obituaries often offer the flexibility to update or add information as needed.

Where else can I share an obituary aside from newspapers?

Besides newspapers, obituaries can be shared on social media, online memorial sites, community bulletin boards, church newsletters, and through local organizations or clubs associated with the deceased.

How do you address survivors and predeceased family members in an obituary?

In obituaries, those who have passed before the deceased (predeceased) are listed first, followed by survivors, typically starting with the closest relations such as spouses, children, grandchildren, and then extended family. This provides a clear family connection and respects the hierarchy of relationships.

What if the deceased didn't want an obituary?

If the deceased expressly did not wish to have an obituary, their request should be respected. Instead, consider sending private messages or death notices to friends and family, or hosting a private ceremony.

Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One

Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

Let our expert Funeral Speech Writers create a heartfelt & personalized eulogy, that captures the amazing life and memories of your loved one.

Learn more about our Professional Eulogy Writing Service today, and see how we can help you.

author-avatar

About Jeffery Isleworth

Jeffery Isleworth is an experienced eulogy and funeral speech writer who has dedicated his career to helping people honor their loved ones in a meaningful way. With a background in writing and public speaking, Jeffery has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting heartfelt and authentic tributes that capture the essence of a person's life. Jeffery's passion for writing eulogies and funeral speeches stems from his belief that everyone deserves to be remembered with dignity and respect. He understands that this can be a challenging time for families and friends, and he strives to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Over the years, Jeffery has helped countless families create beautiful and memorable eulogies and funeral speeches. His clients appreciate his warm and empathetic approach, as well as his ability to capture the essence of their loved one's personality and life story. When he's not writing eulogies and funeral speeches, Jeffery enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and traveling. He believes that life is precious and should be celebrated, and he feels honored to help families do just that through his writing.