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Alder Funeral Home Obituaries

Alder Funeral Home Obituaries

Introduction to Alder Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Morristown, Tennessee, Alder Funeral Home stands as a place of solace and support for families during their time of loss. With a commitment to providing compassionate care, Alder Funeral Home has served the community on W. Andrew Johnson Highway with distinction, offering a range of funeral services tailored to honor the memories of loved ones while respecting the emotional needs of the bereaved.

Personalized Services

Alder Funeral Home believes that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that is reflective of the individual. They pride themselves on offering personalized funeral services that can be modified to cater to the desires of the family and the decedent's wishes. Whether it's a traditional burial, a cremation with a memorial service, or a celebration of life ceremony, the staff work closely with each family to create a fitting tribute.

Alder Funeral Home

Address: 4524 W. Andrew Johnson Hwy, Morristown, TN, 37814
Phone Number: 1-423-581-5113
Get Direction: Google Maps Link

Funeral Obiturary Search

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Donna Ann Cotter - June 15, 1952 - March 14, 2021

Departed: 03/14/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Donna Ann Cotter, age 68 of Morristown, passed away Sunday, March 14, 2021 at Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare Systems.
Survivors include her husband, Jerry Cotter; daughter, Kristie Sinard and son-in-law, Phil Sinard; son, Adam Cotter and wife, Nicole Willis Cotter; grandchildren, Phillip Sinard of White Pine, Melody Sinard of Morristown, Taylor Cotter of Morristown, Maddison Sinard of White Pine, Garrin Livesay of Morristown, and Adlee Cotter of Morristown; and great-grandchildren, Eloit and Emitt Newman.
The family will receive friends 5:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at Alder Funeral Home with no services planned.
To follow Hamblen County Covid-19 protocol, we do ask that you please wear a mask and practice social distancing and refrain from physical contact for everyone’s safety. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Danny L Millsaps - November 18, 1956 - March 08, 2021

Departed: 03/08/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Danny L. Millsaps, age 64, passed away at his home in Greenback, Monday, March 8th.
Arrangements are incomplete at this time.
Alder Funeral Home in Morristown is in charge of the arrangements.
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James Pruett Whaley - April 05, 1963 - March 03, 2021

Departed: 03/03/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: James Pruett Whaley, age 57, passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at his home. Jim will be remembered for his Kind heart and good soul, and for his one of a kind sense of humor. He was preceded in death by his father, Hayes Whaley.
Survivors include his daughter, Samantha Ginn-Whaley; mother, Vera Whaley; brother, Mark Whaley of Clinton; sister, Jennie Parton of Knoxville, and nephew, Justin Tate of Knoxville.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Bruce S. Plum - December 27, 1961 - March 03, 2021

Departed: 03/03/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Bruce Plum, 59, of Bean Station, TN passed away on March 3, 2021. He was born Dec. 27, 1961 in Breckinridge, MN but has lived in TN for 38 years. Bruce worked as a Supervisor at Iconex in Jefferson City.
Bruce was a member of All Saints Episcopal Church.   He loved weekend drag racing at Cherokee Race Park and restoring cars.  He had a great work ethic and was great at anything he did from fixing things to building.  Most of all, he had a great love for his wife and children and family. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Evretta Plum and niece, Stephanie Drevlow O’Rourke.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Angie Plum; son, Christopher (Arleth) Plum; daughter, Brooke (Cody) Whitt; sisters, Nancy (Lauren) Drevlow, Diane (Ronnie) Rader, and Christy (Paul) Brady; and many family and friends and Racing Family.
Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at Alder Funeral Home and the funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m. with the interment to follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.
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Marshall Dean Wells - August 16, 1957 - March 01, 2021

Departed: 03/01/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Marshall Dean Wells, age 63, passed away at his home in Jefferson City on Monday, March 1, 2021
No services are planned at this time.
Alder Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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John Michael Franklin Anderson - February 02, 1977 - February 28, 2021

Departed: 02/28/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: John Anderson, age 44, passed away Sunday, February 28, 2021.
A Celebration of Life will be 5:00 p.m. Saturday, March 5, 2021 at Celebration Chalet, 430 Flat Creek Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Phyllis Ann Jackson - October 25, 1942 - February 28, 2021

Departed: 02/28/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Phyllis Ann Jackson passed away February 28, 2021 at University of Tennessee Medical Center.  She was 78.  She was a long-time resident of Morristown Tennessee.  She was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church.  Phyllis retired from the Hamblen County School System where she drove a school bus for many years. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Minerva Jackson of Morristown, and her husband, Dean Jackson.
She is survived by her daughter, Melinda Sumner, and her two grandchildren, Jackson and Kate.  Phyllis is also survived by two brothers, Donald Jackson of Morristown, Tennessee and Larry Jackson of Trussville, Alabama; nieces, Michele, Suzanne, LaDonna and nephew Philip; and many cousins with whom she shared some of her greatest adventures.  She was dearly loved by family and friends.
She will be buried Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Sunderland Cemetery following a service at Pleasant View Baptist Church at 1:00. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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David Glenn Trent - November 14, 1953 - February 26, 2021

Departed: 02/26/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: David Glenn Trent, age 67 of Morristown, passed away Friday, February 26, 2021. He was preceded in death by his son, David Owens.
Survivors include his wife, Nancy Trent; sons, Jacob David Rickard, David Charles Trent, and James Derick Trent; daughter, Melissa Collins; a host of grandchildren; brother, V.K. Bailey; sister, Carolyn Smith; and half-sister, Grace.
No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Whitney Mullendore - March 08, 1963 - February 23, 2021

Departed: 02/23/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Whitney Mullendore, age 57 of Morristown, passed away Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at her home. No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Dr. Bill J. Black - March 10, 1971 - February 22, 2021

Departed: 02/22/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Dr. Bill Black, age 49 of Morristown, passed away Monday, February 22, 2021 at Vanderbilt Medical Center. He was Ob/Gyn doctor at Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare Systems since 2007; he was an avid aviator at the Morristown Airport; he was a member of EOA; teacher at LMU; reserve police officer SWAT medic; and loved working in his garden. Bill was of the Christian faith and he loved his family more than anything else. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, J.T. and Ruby Black and C.B. and Lucille Sherwood; father-in law, Kenneth Wynn.
Survivors include his wife of 16 years, Melanie Black; daughters, Maddie and Makinley Black of the home, and Lauren Black of Alabama; son, Scott Black of Knoxville; parents, Jerry and Pam Black, Sr.; brother, Darren Black of Texas; sister, Alison (Mason) Brooks of Texas; mother-in-law, Sonja Wynn of New Tazewell; brother-in-law, Kenny Wynn of Tazewell; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
No formal services are being planned at this time. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Lucille Wilder - May 28, 1935 - February 20, 2021

Departed: 02/20/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Lucille Wilder, 85 of Morristown, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021
She retired from BASF/Enka after many years of service.
Proceeding her in death are her parents: Elmer and Edna Bowman Brooks; brothers: Jack Brooks, Earl “Tiny” Brooks, Chad Brooks, Carl Brooks, Howard “Bunk” Brooks and Basil Brooks; and a sister: Doris Ann Huhn.
Lucille leaves her son: Joey Wilder (Celia Clark); grandchildren: Bryan (Kasey) Wilder and Christina Wilder (Jeremy Ray), Hunter Clark, Abby (Adam) Smith and Kaley (Leslie) Moore and many great grandchildren. Brother: Hugh Brooks, several nieces and nephews. Special family members: Joanie Cody and Betty Joe Greene.
Visitation with the family will be Tuesday, February 23, 2021 from 5:30 PM until 6:30 PM at the Alder Funeral Home.  Services will immediately follow with Rev. Doug Brown and Jeff Brewer officiating. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Carolyn Shaikh - November 30, 1946 - February 20, 2021

Departed: 02/20/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Carolyn Shaikh, age 74 of Morristown, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021 at The Heritage Center. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Alder Funeral Home. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Ricky Edward Gros, Sr - May 27, 1949 - February 20, 2021

Departed: 02/20/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Ricky Edward Gros, Sr., passed away peacefully at his home, Saturday, February 20, 2021 after 71 years of life. Ricky was born, May 27, 1949 in New Orleans, LA to his parents, Harold and Bertha Uldine Baker Gros; at the age of 18 he went into the Army and remained until January 12, 1973; after the army he bagan his career as a truck driver, retiring from Anderson Trucking Service in 2013. In 1989 he met his wife of 32 years, Johnnie Benintende Gros. Ricky enjoyed watching TV and spending time with his family; he was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Peter Gros, Sr., and Bertha Uldine Baker Gros; and brother, Roy Gros.
Survivors include his brothers, Harold Gros, Jr. and Stephen Gros; sisters, Ethel Layiolefte, Wanda Frith, and Nancey Belasques; loving wife of 32 years, Johnnie Benintende Gros; children, Vicky Gros Scalf, Ricky E. Gros, Jr. and his wife Doris Gros (they have 6 kids together) Amber Gros Simpson, and Thomas Simpson; step-children, Matthew Benintende, William Distefano, Anita Distefano; grandkids, Kaitlyn Scalf Reece and her husband, Zack Reece, James Scalf, and Matthew Benintende; step-grandchildren, Seirra Harris and Alisha Utley, Tinsley and Tatum Simpson, Matthew Brockhoeft, Chloe Benintende, Arianna Distefano; 3 great-grandkids; and a host of nieces, nephews, and lots of beloved friends.
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Mary Kathryn Jackson - April 25, 1936 - February 19, 2021

Departed: 02/19/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: It is with sadness but also celebration of a life well lived, that we mourn the loss of Mary Deering Jackson, Age 84.  Mary passed away peacefully at her home in Morristown, TN with her daughter and the angels by her side.
Mary was the daughter of the late Addie and Carrol Rice of Asheville, NC.  The mother of Linda and Son-in-love Jeff Wofford:  Nanny to Heather (Grant) Kersey and Lee (Tori) Wofford.  Great Grandmother to Brianna, Georgia and Wells Wofford; Isaiah and Judah Kersey.
She was preceded in death by her husband(s) Albert Deering and James Jackson; daughter Pamela; (2) brothers Carrol Rice Jr and Johnny Rice; (4) sisters Carrie Deschon, Betty Farr, Doris Coffey and Shirley Whealan.
In addition to her Daughter, Son-in-Love and Grandchildren, Mary is survived by (3) brothers Melvin (Edie) Rice of Seattle, WA, Michael (Shirley) Galloway, Earl Rice and Bud Rice all of Asheville, NC.
Mary will be laid to rest at Ami Cemetery, Menlo, GA with a private celebration of life at a later date.  Those who wish to honor the life of Mary, may make donations to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you and love to all her friends at Walters Ridge for the all the laughs and genuine love they have shown as well as to the Smoky Mountain Hospice team of Leslie and Donovan and Patrick who provided love and excellent care.
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Joanne Kay Flores - December 09, 1945 - February 18, 2021

Departed: 02/18/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Joann Kay Flores born December 9th 1945 went to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 18th 2021 She will be sorely missed by all her family friends. "Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted. " Matthew 5:4 NIV
Alder Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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Lonnie Curtis Via - December 22, 1959 - February 16, 2021

Departed: 02/16/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Lonnie Curtis Via, age 61, passed away Tuesday, February 16,2021 at Leconte Medical Center in Severville.
Arrangements are pending at this time.
Alder Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
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Patricia Patterson - July 04, 1949 - February 15, 2021

Departed: 02/15/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Patricia Patterson, age 71 of Morristown, passed away Monday, February 15, 2021. She went peacefully with her family by her side. She was preceded in death by her father, Roscoe Patterson of Lake City; and her mother, Mary Miller of Morristown.
Survivors include her children, Jerry and Christy Cox, Donald and Rhonda Cox, and Sherry and Teddy House; grandchildren, Xandria Lemons, Eric Cox, Taylor Moore, Shane Cox, Brayden Cox, Elijah Copeland and Kailey Cox; brothers, Donnie Hopkins, Butch Hopkins, Scott Hopkins, David Hopkins, and Tim Hopkins; sisters, Linda Atkins, Kathy Judy, Connie Wardwell, Debbie Wiggleston, Pam Keller, and Kim Hopkins; great-grandchildren, Kali Mae McAvoy, Macie Cox, Emma Owens, Orion Lemons, Greyson Owens, Abby Owens, Silas Cox, Lane Cox, and baby Luke Cox.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Avalon Hospice and nurse Raven McCarroll for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Patricia and her family.
Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at Alder Funeral Home and the funeral service will follow at 7:00 p.m. with Rev. Darrell Alder officiating. Family and friends will meet at Island Ford Baptist Church Cemetery, 515 Island Ford Rd., Rocky Top, TN 37769 Thursday, February 18, 2021 for a 2:00 p.m. graveside service. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Timothy E Tolliver - February 22, 1965 - February 15, 2021

Departed: 02/15/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Tim Tolliver, age 55 of Jefferson City, passed away Monday, February 15, 2021 at his home. He was preceded in death by his father, Harmon Tolliver; mother, Wilma Geraldine Jett; and daughter, Crystal Ann Tolliver.
Survivors include his sons, Joshua Tolliver and Travis Tolliver; grandchildren, Riley Tolliver, Harlan Bentley, Malea Humphrey, Makenzie Tolliver, and Emory Brooks; girlfriend, Brenda Denton and her children, Carla Morgan and Kim Hendricks; brothers, Eddie Hickman, Brian Tolliver, and Wayne Tolliver; sister, Teresa Humbard; special friends, Mike Spencer and Jennifer Rasner; and a host of family and friends.
No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Tama Sue Craddock - August 11, 1959 - February 15, 2021

Departed: 02/15/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Tama Sue Craddock, age 61, of Talbott, passed away Monday, February 15, 2021 at Turkey Creek Medical Center. She was a member of Talbott Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles William and Janie Gerrtrue Pollard; brother, Jackie William Pollard; sister, Debra Ann Pelechaty; daughter, Susan Beatrice Craddock.
Survivors include her children, Timothy William (Brittney) Craddock, David (Christy) Craddock, Tonia Taylor; grandchildren, Wyatt Lee Craddock, Travis James Craddock, Kaitlyn Oliver, Caleb Oliver, Eli Allen; great-grandson, Carter Allen Oliver; sister, Sandra (Frank) Amyx; special friend, Angela McCarn; along with several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
The family will receive friends from 5:00-6:00 pm, Friday, February 19, 2021 at Mansfield Gap Missionary Baptist Church. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 pm with Pastor Bill Collett officiating. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Shelby Jean Davis - July 27, 1937 - February 13, 2021

Departed: 02/13/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: The Davis family is greatly saddened by the loss of Shelby Jean Davis, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister, her loving presence will be greatly missed.
Shelby passed away Saturday, February 13, 2021 at age 83.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Charles Davis Sr. and her mother Marguerite King. She leaves behind a host of loved ones:
Her children: Chuck (Angie) Davis and Gary (Elaine) Davis. Her grandchildren: Justin Davis, Courtney Davis and T.R. Johnson, and Megan (Josh) Gillespie. Her siblings: Eugene Hankins and Sandra McNabb, and one great grandson: Easton Gillespie.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Michael Kenneth Malone - August 16, 1942 - February 12, 2021

Departed: 02/12/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Michael K. Malone, age 78 of Morristown, passed away Friday, February 12, 2021. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Alder Funeral Home. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Edith Melendez - January 17, 1937 - February 11, 2021

Departed: 02/11/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Edith Melendez, age 83, passed away Thursday, February 11, 2021. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Alder Funeral Home. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Michael James Haney - March 30, 1957 - February 10, 2021

Departed: 02/10/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Michael “Mickey” Haney age 63 died peacefully with his family by his side Wednesday, February 10, 2021, he was retired from Meritor.
Survivors include his wife Joi, son Jarhett, daughter Megan Hutchens and 5 grandchildren.
No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Phillip Earl Moore - June 17, 1956 - February 10, 2021

Departed: 02/10/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Phillip Moore, age 64 of New Market, passed away Wednesday, February 10, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Grace Moore; father and mother-in-law, Kyle and Isa Bell; and brother, Robert Lynn Lanston.
Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Ann Moore; daughter, Joann (Brian) Merriman; son, William (Tasha) Moore; grandchildren, Tyler Ray, Christopher Ray, Dillon Ray, Brynn Merriman, Jadon Coffey, Jamiah Coffey, Kristin Moore, Creed Moore, Layla Merriman, and Jocelyn Moore; great-grandchild, Nevaeh Ray; sister, Geraldine (Tommy) Wood; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 27, 2021 at Solid Rock Gospel Church, 915 Adams Rd., Strawberry Plains, TN 37871. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Ronald Lee Brady - April 27, 1941 - February 09, 2021

Departed: 02/09/2021 (Morristown)
Obituary Preview: Ronald Lee Brady, age 79 of Talbott, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at his home.
Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Lois Anne Brady; sons, Adam Lee and Ronnie and Rhonda Jones; step-sons, Ricky and Joey Whitehead; grandchildren, Bryson, Dakota, Cheslea, Erika, Tyson and Tyler Jones, Rick and Rhonda, and Ryan and Aaron Brady; special niece, April Jones; brother, Sherman Brady; sisters, Mary Belle Brady and Joyce Brogan; and very special friend to the whole family, John Miller.
No services are being planned at this time. Arrangements by Alder Funeral Home
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Veteran Honors and Special Tributes

Recognizing the sacrifices made by those who have served our country, Alder Funeral Home provides special services for veterans. This includes the coordination of military honors, assistance with Veterans Affairs benefits, and the arrangement of a burial in a national cemetery, if desired. The home's commitment to honoring veterans extends to personalization options such as military-themed caskets and memorial displays that reflect the individual's service.

Comfortable Facilities

The facilities at Alder Funeral Home are designed to offer a peaceful and accommodating environment for families and their guests. Visitation rooms provide a serene space for families to gather, share memories, and say their farewells in a private setting. The chapel, with its dignified atmosphere, is available for services of various sizes, ensuring that each family can have a service that feels intimate and respectful.

Support and Grief Resources

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Understanding that the grief journey doesn't end with the funeral, Alder Funeral Home extends its care beyond the service. The staff provides grief support resources and can connect bereaved family members with local support groups, counselors, and online tools to assist in the healing process. These resources aim to offer comfort and guidance during one of life's most challenging times.

Pre-Planning Services

Forward-thinking individuals seeking to ease the burden on their loved ones often turn to Alder Funeral Home for pre-planning services. The staff helps guide clients through the decision-making process, allowing them to arrange their own funeral details in advance. From selecting the type of service to finalizing the financial aspects, pre-planning can offer peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of according to one's preferences.

Community Engagement and Events

A key component of the ethos at Alder Funeral Home is its commitment to the community of Morristown. The home frequently participates in local events, hosts workshops on topics related to mourning and loss, and provides educational materials to help foster a supportive community. They believe in building a relationship with the community that extends far beyond the services they provide.

Direct and Immediate Assistance

When a loved one passes away, families may find themselves needing immediate assistance. Alder Funeral Home offers direct and immediate help, ensuring that families receive prompt attention and professional guidance. From the moment of first contact, staff are responsive and ready to take action to transport the deceased, arrange for services, and coordinate with any necessary third parties.

A Legacy of Caring

Alder Funeral Home has established a legacy of caring through years of dedicated service to Morristown and its surrounding communities. Their team of experienced professionals upholds the highest standards of care, ensuring that each family they serve feels heard, understood, and respected. As they facilitate end-of-life ceremonies and provide ongoing support, their mission remains clear: to offer a dignified farewell to those who have passed and a source of comfort to those they leave behind.

Contact and Accessibility

For those seeking more information or requiring assistance, Alder Funeral Home maintains clear lines of communication and accessibility. Contact details and directions to the funeral home are readily available, ensuring that help is never far away. With a commitment to being there when families need them the most, Alder Funeral Home affirms its role as a trusted partner during life's most difficult moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of a person's death, usually including a brief summary of their life, information about upcoming memorial services, and sometimes a request for donations to charity. It serves as a notice to the community and a way to pay tribute to the deceased's life and accomplishments. Obituaries are often published in newspapers and online.

Is an obituary the same as a death notice?

No, an obituary and a death notice are not the same. A death notice is typically shorter and more factual, simply announcing the death and the time and place of any services. An obituary, on the other hand, provides a more detailed biography of the deceased, their achievements, family members, and sometimes information about the cause of death.

Who typically writes an obituary?

An obituary is often written by a close relative or friend of the deceased, but it can also be written by a funeral director or a professional obituary writer at the request of the deceased’s family. Additionally, some individuals choose to write their own obituaries before they pass away.

Are obituaries published for everyone who dies?

No, obituaries are not published for everyone who dies. It is the family's decision whether or not to have an obituary published. In some cases, individuals or their families may prefer to keep the death private or may choose alternative ways to inform friends and relatives.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or website?

To submit an obituary to a newspaper or website, you will typically need to contact the publication's obituary department for their submission guidelines, which may include fees, word count limits, and deadlines. You may need to provide a copy of the death certificate. Publication policies and procedures can vary, so it's important to inquire directly with the chosen media outlet.

Is there a standard length for an obituary?

There is no standard length for an obituary, as it can vary from a simple paragraph to several hundred words. However, many newspapers and websites have specific word count limits and fees based on the length, so it's wise to check their policies before starting to write.

What information is typically included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the full name of the deceased, their age, date of birth, date of death, place of residence, a brief overview of their personal and professional life, names of surviving family members, details about the funeral or memorial service, and sometimes a memorial contribution request.

How do I start writing an obituary?

To start writing an obituary, collect accurate information about the deceased, including dates, family details, and significant life events. Begin with a simple sentence stating the name, age, and date of passing of the deceased, then provide a summary of their life, family information, service details, and end with any special messages or donation requests.

Can I include a photograph with an obituary?

Yes, you can include a photograph with an obituary, although there might be additional fees for this service, and you need to adhere to the publication’s guidelines regarding formats and quality. A photograph can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and helps readers to recognize the person remembered.

Is it appropriate to mention the cause of death in an obituary?

Mentioning the cause of death in an obituary is a personal choice and not required. Some families choose to include this detail for transparency or to raise awareness for certain health conditions. However, it is also completely acceptable to omit this information if the family prefers privacy.

How are obituaries verified for accurate information?

Publications typically require proof of death, such as a death certificate or a funeral home's confirmation, to verify an obituary's information before publishing. The person submitting the obituary may also need to provide their contact information for any necessary follow-up or verification.

What is the typical cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the individual publication's pricing structure, the length of the obituary, and any additional features such as photographs. Prices can range from a modest fee for a basic notice to several hundred dollars for a more detailed narrative or inclusion in larger publications.

How soon after death should an obituary be published?

An obituary is usually published as soon as possible following the death, ideally within a few days, to allow time for friends and extended family to make arrangements to attend the funeral or memorial service. However, the timing can be affected by the publication schedule and family circumstances.

What if I make a mistake in an obituary?

If a mistake is made in an obituary, contact the publication immediately to request a correction. Most newspapers and online platforms have a process for correcting information, and they typically understand the importance of accuracy concerning an obituary's sensitive nature.

Can I write a pre-written obituary for myself?

Yes, you can write a pre-written obituary for yourself, and it can be a thoughtful way to ensure your life is remembered in the way you wish. This can also relieve your family of the burden of writing an obituary during a difficult time.

Is it possible to update an obituary after it has been published?

While it is generally not possible to update the entire content of an obituary after it has been published, you can publish an updated version as a new submission or a correction if significant details were omitted or reported inaccurately.

Can I include personal messages or anecdotes in an obituary?

Yes, personal messages, anecdotes, and fond memories are often included in obituaries to provide a deeper insight into the deceased's personality and life. They can add a personal touch that resonates with friends and family members.

What should I do if I don't have enough information for an obituary?

If you find yourself lacking information, reach out to other family members, friends, or colleagues of the deceased who might be able to provide additional details. You can also focus on the information you do have, ensuring the obituary is a respectful and heartfelt tribute with the available facts.

Is it necessary to include a list of survivors in an obituary?

While it is common to include a list of close surviving relatives in an obituary, it is not an absolute requirement. If privacy is a concern or if the family is particularly large, some may choose to generalize (e.g., "survived by her loving family") rather than list everyone individually.

How can I ensure an obituary is respectful and appropriate?

To ensure an obituary is respectful and appropriate, use a warm and considerate tone, focus on the positive aspects of the deceased's life, and carefully review the details for accuracy. It's also wise to have family members or friends review it before publication to ensure it meets the family's wishes and properly honors the loved one.

Can obituaries be denied publication by newspapers or websites?

Yes, newspapers and websites may deny publication of an obituary if it fails to meet their guidelines, contains inappropriate content, or cannot be adequately verified. It's important to follow the publication's guidelines carefully and provide truthful and respectful information.

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.

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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.