Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home of Sumter Obituaries

Introduction to Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home of Sumter

Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home of Sumter is a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the Sumter community. Located at 353 Manning Avenue, Sumter, SC, 29153, this esteemed funeral home has been providing exceptional funeral services to families in need for many years. In this article, we will delve into the history, services, and unique features that set Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home apart from others in the area.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home has a rich history of providing compassionate care to families during their most difficult times. The funeral home's commitment to excellence and dedication to serving the community have earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted funeral homes in Sumter. Their team of experienced professionals is dedicated to ensuring that every family receives personalized attention and care, tailoring their services to meet the unique needs of each individual.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Pearlene Woods - June 21, 1940 - April 22, 2024

Departed: 04/22/2024 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Pearlene Woods was born June 21, 1940, in Bishopville, South Carolina, the beloved daughter of the late Henry and Doreitha Moses Rembert.  She departed this earthly life on Monday, April 22, 2024, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence, South  Carolina.

As a child Pearlene attended Dennis Middle and Dennis High School in Lee County Public Schools; and attended Elizabeth Baptist Church  along with her family.  After leaving South Carolina, Pearlene lived in New York for many years and worked in the Medical Textile Industry where she produced hospital linen. While residing in New York, she attended Carolina Baptist Church with her family.

Pearlene was very adventurous, and decided to later relocate to Newark, New Jersey.  It was there she met and married John Thomas Woods.  During their time in Newark, they enjoyed hosting and visiting family, taking care of their home and did some traveling.  Always wanting to be a part of a church, they united with Union Chapel AME Church, the church where she and John were married. After the death of her beloved John, Pearlene relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  It was in the City of Brotherly Love that she reveled in her love of gardening and music.  She attended community centers and church activities, while enjoying spending time with her grandchildren

After a while, Pearlene decided to return to her birthplace of Bishopville, South Carolina to be closer to family and united with her home church Elizabeth Baptist Church. Pearlene was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, and friend.  Though she is no longer physically with us, her loving and kind spirit will forever live in the hearts and lives of all those who loved and knew her.

In addition to her parents, and husband John, she was also preceded in death by one brother Tommie Rembert; two sisters Lola Malloy and Daisy Gadsden.

Those who are cherishing her fond and precious memories are her loving son, Thomas (Chaka) Woods; adoring grandchildren, Tomesha, Takeera, Tanzania, and Rashakim; her caring brother, Michael (Pauline) Crawford; caring aunt, Pearly Wilson; and a host of nephews, nieces, and other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss her, but rejoice that she is now resting with Lord.

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Keith Myron Scarborough - February 10, 1968 - March 16, 2024

Departed: 03/16/2024 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Keith Myron Scarborough.

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Sylvia J. Simon - May 30, 1955 - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Our dear mother, Sylvia J. Wells-Simon was born May 30, 1955, the daughter of the late Levy and Nita Mae Wells Sr. She sadly passed away on Monday, March 4, 2024, at Prisma Baptist Hospital, in Columbia, South Carolina.

Sylvia attended the public schools of Sumter County and graduated from Maywood High School in 1974. She attended Morris College and Sumter Technical College where she  majored in healthcare. She was a member of Asbury UMC and worked diligently in church until her health failed.

Sylvia was the mother of three beautiful children, Argelene, Anita and Ryan. Sylvia was also a wonderful aunt to all her nieces and nephews ensuring they would have a good life by giving them her love and special attention. She was a very loving person, reaching out to all cousins and family members by calling and expressing her love for them.  She will be missed by all who loved and knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her daughter, Argelene Simon, one brother, Leroy Wells of Lynchburg, SC, and four sisters, Lena (Frederick) Ogunfiditimi of Washington, DC, Bessie McDonald of Mayesville, Josephine Balogun of Lynchburg, SC, and Janie Sue (Solomon) Mitchum of Maryland, a nephew, Solomon Mitchum III, and a close cousin, Rolly Wells.

To cherish her memories she leaves her daughter, Anita; son, Ryan (Monique); and two grandchildren, Kross Jovan and Hazel Argelene who she loved very much; three brothers, Charles (Evangelist Shirley) McGill of Polk, Florida, Levy (Juanita) Wells Jr. of Adelphi, MD, and Jerome (Ann) Wells of Sumter, SC; one sister, Irene (Rev. Elroy) Davis of Lynchburg, SC, an aunt, Edith Ceasar of Washington, DC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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Brian Jeffery Tention - September 16, 1970 - February 19, 2024

Departed: 02/19/2024 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Brian Jeffery Tention was born September 16, 1970, in Sumter, South Carolina, the beloved son of Warren Tention and Celathia Peoples Tention.  He departed his life on Monday afternoon, February 19, 2024, in Raleigh, NC.

Jeff received his high school diploma from Sumter High, Class of 1989.  After finishing high school, in the late 1990’s Jeff moved to Raleigh, NC, with his sister, Jenice Tate.  While residing in Raleigh, Jeff spent most days raising his four beautiful children. When visiting his home in Sumter, SC, Jeff spent time with his mother and father and made time to catch up with family and long-time friends.

Jeff, also known as “Big Bruh” by many of his friends and family, dominated in the game of dominos which he typically played with friends. Jeff was also a huge sports fan. He enjoyed watching his favorite NFL team the Carolina Panthers, the Carolina Tar Heels for college basketball, and Golden State for Professional Basketball.

Jeff was one person that you could go to for advice when no one else would listen. He would never give too much of his opinion on your personal life, but he was good at telling you what you needed to hear, and not what you wanted to hear. His honest demeanor and welcoming personality attracted people everywhere he went.

He was a good father, son, best friend, neighbor, classmate, etc. to many people and was loved by all.

He leaves to cherish the precious memories his parents, Warren Tention and Celathia Peoples Tention; his wife, Erica Tention; three daughters, Shanice Smith, Emily Thomas, and Miracle Tention; son, Jeremy (Sydney) Tention;    sister, Jenice (Joseph) Tention-Tate; a cousin reared as a brother, James Peoples, Jr.; grandson, Elias Bivens; along with two nieces, Aniah Bland and Araia Tate; two nephews, Cedric Mack and Christopher Tate; aunt, Edith Faye Robinson; and uncle, Charles Edward Peoples; and a host of other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.

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Evelyn P. Butler - May 23, 1936 - December 10, 2023

Departed: 12/10/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Evelyn Peterson Butler, affectionately known as "June" and "Ma Butler," entered this world on May 23, 1936, born to the late Johnny and Allean Walker. On Sunday, December 10, 2023, she peacefully transitioned from labor to reward at Prisma Health Tuomey.

Raised by her grandparents, Pete and Maggie Peterson, Evelyn received her education in Sumter County schools. A devoted believer in Christ, she began her spiritual journey at Shepard United Methodist Church, where her passion for singing and playing the piano blossomed. In 1957, she united in marriage with the love of her life, Mr. Harrison Butler, Jr., who was serving in the United States Army at the time. Together, they were blessed with two children, Allean Butler and Tony Butler, Sr. After their union, Mrs. Butler joined Bethel AME Church, standing as the church musician for an impressive 65 years. Ma Butler's melodious voice and musical talents graced the Gospel, Inspirational, Men's, and Sunshine Choirs, showcasing her unwavering dedication to her faith. She generously shared her talents, traveling throughout Sumter and Wedgefield, offering her musical gifts to any choir in need. Even in her final months at the age of 87, her unmatched talent persisted. With a heart full of devotion, she would proudly proclaim, "I've been running for Jesus a long time, and I'm not tired yet."

Ma Butler was a remarkable individual, embodying the roles of mother, wife, grandmother, church musician, farm assistant to her husband, and dedicated full-time employee at Campbell Soup for many years. Her grace, infectious smile, and spirit of love and joy touched all who knew her.

To know Ma Butler was to love her, as she welcomed all with open arms. Her caring nature extended beyond her immediate family to her extended family and church community.

Preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, brother Edward McFadden, daughter Allean Butler, and son Tony Butler, Sr., she leaves behind a legacy cherished by her husband, Harrison Butler, Jr.; three grandchildren, Mary V Butler, James Butler, Tony Butler Jr. (Kashmere); daughter-in-law, Deidre Butler; and four great-grandchildren—Ciara, E'Miya, Elise, Rhylnn. Additionally, she is survived by one brother-in-law, three sisters-in-law, and a host of family and friends who loved and adored her.

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Jimmie Jones - March 05, 1964 - November 07, 2023

Departed: 11/07/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jimmie Jones.

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Jimmie O. Jones - March 05, 1964 - November 07, 2023

Departed: 11/07/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Jimmie O’Harold Jones was born a healthy, vibrant child on March 5, 1964, the son of Geneva Nelson Jones and the late Leroy Jones in Sumter, South Carolina.  Jimmie entered eternal rest on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

Jimmie attended Sumter County Public Schools.  At a young age, Jimmie accepted Jesus as his personal Savior.  He loved gospel music, singing and spending time outdoors.

At the age of eleven, Jimmy was admitted to the hospital for minor surgery.  After complications during surgery, Jimmie sustained neurological injuries that caused severe brain damage, affecting his ability to walk, talk and care for himself.  The doctor said he would not live for a year and would be in a vegetative state.  However, his mother and father did not accept that as the end and did everything in their power to help rehabilitate him.  Because of their dedication and love, Jimmie lived a full and happy life.  He celebrated all life events and traveled with his family.   Everybody that met Jimmie was greeted with a smile and could feel the love and joy of his spirit.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving and devoted mother, Geneva Jones; loving and caring siblings, Melvin (Lusann) Jones, Lori Robinson, Teresa Jones Wiley, and Valerie (David) Hollis; caring nephews, Brian and Marlon; caring nieces, Jessica, Amanda, Ariel and Kristen; a special nephew, Valante “Ro” Holmes; special niece, Bridgette Bell; loving aunts, Gardenia Pinkney, Lucille (Donald) Lewis, Elizabeth Nelson, Gloria Greene, Lynn Nelson, Irene Jones, and Earline Jones; caring uncles, Thomas (Geneva) Nelson,  Leon (Francine) Nelson; and a host of other relatives and friends, all of whom will miss him.

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Sarah Lesane - May 31, 1965 - September 03, 2023

Departed: 09/03/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Sarah T. Lesane, affectionately known as "Coot," peacefully entered eternal rest at Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital on Sunday, September 3, 2023. Born on May 31, 1965, in St. Charles, South Carolina to the late Leroy Lesane and Betty J. Lesane, she was raised by her adoring great-grandmother, the late Mattie Rogers.

Sarah's radiant spirit was evident to all who knew her. She was a true people's person, always adorned with a warm, infectious smile. She had a natural talent for entertaining and bringing joy to those around her.

Sarah received her education in the public schools of Sumter County and proudly graduated from Mayewood High School in 1983. She furthered her academic journey, obtaining a degree in Early Childhood from Central Carolina Technical College in 2008. At the time of her passing, Sarah was on the cusp of achieving another milestone as a senior at Morris College, pursuing a degree in Organizational Management with an anticipated graduation date in May 2024.

Sarah's faith was unwavering, and she was a dedicated member of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Mayesville, South Carolina. Within the church community, she served as the President of the Pastor's Aide, was an active member of the Missionary Society, and skillfully captured precious moments as the church's videographer. Additionally, she held the role of Vice President of the Wateree Baptist Association, L.D. Sunday School Convention from 2017 to 2022.

Throughout her life, Sarah made valuable contributions in her professional endeavors. She was employed by Kmart and Federal-Mogul for many years and, at the time of her passing, was serving as a devoted 3K teacher at the Little Lambs Learning Center at Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy.

In her leisure time, Sarah cherished moments spent with her beloved sister, Vernessa. She had a deep passion for reading the Bible, attending church services, and indulging in retail therapy through her love for shopping.

In addition to her parents and great-grandmother, Sarah was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Sarah B. McDuffie and Mary Cook Lesane; and grandfathers, Frank Carter and Tom Pete Lesane.

Left behind to cherish the precious memories of this loving, ever-smiling soul are her sister, Vernessa Lesane of the home; a cousin whom she loved like a brother, Elijah (Laura) Miller, Jr. of Sumter, SC; three devoted aunts, Sheila (James) Smalls of Jersey City, New Jersey, Shirley Lesane, and Carolyn Lesane of Mayesville, SC; a special father figure, Joshua McQuilla; and a multitude of cherished relatives and friends.

Sarah's legacy of love, warmth, and boundless joy will forever live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.

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William Claude Hamby, Jr. - September 12, 1937 - August 12, 2023

Departed: 08/12/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for William Claude Hamby, Jr..

We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall.

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Johnnie Green, Jr. - September 18, 1957 - July 26, 2023

Departed: 07/26/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for William Claude Hamby, Jr.

We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall.

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James Billups - December 10, 1962 - March 09, 2023

Departed: 03/09/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Mr. James Lee Billups was born December 10, 1962, in Clarendon County, the beloved son of the late Roosevelt and Mary Billups.  On Thursday, March 9, 2023, God, who is keenly aware when one of His children has grown tired of this earthly life and guided his soul to rest.

“Ditty” as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was educated in the public schools of Clarendon County School District One where he graduated from Scotts Branch High School.  At the age of 18, James enlisted in the United States Army where he served honorably for three (3) years.  He was employed with Sean’s Poultry Farm in Summerton, South Carolina.

Though he is no longer physically with us, his loving and kind spirit will forever live in the hearts and lives of all who loved and knew him.

Those who are cherishing “Ditty’s” fond and precious memories are his son, Antoine Terrell Nicholson of Brooklyn, New York; four sisters, Christine Taylor of Sumter, South Carolina; Rosa Aiken of Pinewood, South Carolina; Sybie Billups of Brooklyn, New York; and Mary Ann Billups of Sumter, South Carolina; one sister-in-law, Dorothy Aiken of Brooklyn, New York; a host of nephews, nieces and other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss him.

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Mary R. Maple - July 15, 1943 - February 05, 2023

Departed: 02/05/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Mary Ruth Maple, the daughter of the late Lampy and Beulah Farmer, and the wife of the late Johnnie Lee Maple.

Ms. Mary Ruth Maple was born in Sumter, South Carolina on July 15, 1943.  She departed this life on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at the home of her daughter in North Augusta, South Carolina after an extended illness.

Mrs. Maple was also preceded in death by a daughter, Genesis Godard; two sons, Elliott Farmer and Lee J. Maple; one grandson, Elliott Farmer, Jr.; and one sister, Barbara Green.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories four daughters, Melissa Thomas of Sumter, SC; Stacy (Harry) Brown of North Augusta, SC; Sharon Maple of the home; and Cornell Brown of Wilmington, NC; two sons, Larry Maple and Tyrone Wilson, both of Sumter, SC; two brothers, Lampy Farmer of Aynor, SC; and Rodney Farmer of Columbia, SC; twenty-eight grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; a host of nephews, nieces and other relatives and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss her.

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Jimmie Lee James - August 24, 1949 - January 16, 2023

Departed: 01/16/2023 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Jimmie Lee James was born on August 24, 1949, in Sumter, SC, the beloved son of the late Mary Campbell McCleary. He transitioned to his heavenly home on Monday, January 16, 2023. Jimmie was educated in the Sumter County public school system. Jimmie Lee was known throughout his community as a helping hand, a friend, and a lover of people. Though he is no longer physically with us, his loving and kind spirit will forever live in the hearts and lives of all who loved and knew him. In addition to his mother, Mr. James was also preceded in death by his brothers, Walter Campbell, and John J. McCleary Jr.; his sisters, Jacqueline McCleary Hunt and Beverly Jean Rogers; a nephew, Bruce McCleary; and a niece, Debbye Moses Smith. He will be deeply missed by his nieces, Roberta Thompson of Columbia, SC; and Lenora Wilson of Sumter, SC; great- nieces, Shawnte Moses, Ebony Ragin, and Teaca Canty all of Sumter, SC, Latoya Robinson, Rozeena Hunt, and Ashley Ragin of Columbia, SC; and Shareena Conyers of Bronx, NY; great-nephews, Silas Smith Jr, Jermaine Smith, and Roosevelt Thompson Jr., all of Sumter, SC; and Brandon Conyers of Bronx, NY; along with a host of other loving relatives and dear friends.

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Vernell Pugh Sr. - May 03, 1947 - December 17, 2022

Departed: 12/17/2022 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Vernell Pugh Sr..

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Alice J. Beckum - November 18, 1931 - November 09, 2022

Departed: 11/09/2022 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Alice J. Beckum was born November 18, 1931, the beloved daughter of the late Adam and Bethan Perry Jones.  She departed this life to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, in Sumter, South Carolina.

Alice was educated in the public schools of Sumter County where she played basketball in middle school.  She graduated with her diploma from Sumter Area Technical Adult Education. She was united in Holy Matrimony to the late James Beckum.

She worked at Georgia Pacific Plant for several years and at Freddie Soleman Café. After a few years she began to work as a babysitter for family members, and oh how she spoiled them.

Mrs. Beckum received Christ as her personal Savior at an early age and was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. During her tenure at Bethlehem, she was a member of the Adult Choir and a faithful supporter.  If there was ever a fund raiser to benefit a church program, she was always a top salesperson, and she made sure that you knew your donation was going towards the work of the Lord. Later in years she returned to her home church Mulberry Missionary Baptist Church where she attended faithfully and regularly until her health declined.

Alice was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, who love the Chicago Bulls Basketball Team. Though she is no longer physically with us, her loving and kind spirit will forever live in the hearts and lives of all who loved and knew her.

Mrs. Beckum was also preceded in death by two sons, Edward Roman and Lavern; eight brothers; and three sisters.

Those who are cherishing fond and precious memories are her loving son Herman (Cindy) Jones of Sumter, SC; her loving daughter, Bertell Horsey of Chester, Virginia; caring daughter-in-law, Shirley Roman; eight grandchildren, Thomas, Terrance, Tammie, Ebony, Shatara, Marcus, Levern Jr., Thomas and DJ; eight (8) great-grandchildren; devoted nieces, Lotta Jones and Barbara Romas; devoted nephews, Leo and Howard Jones; and her best friend, who was like a sister, Mrs. Myrtle D. Daughty; and a host of other loving relatives and dear friends, all  of whom rejoice that she is now with the Lord.

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Larry D. Rock, Jr. - September 21, 1988 - September 27, 2022

Departed: 09/27/2022 (Sumter)

Obituary Preview: Larry Domonique Rock, Jr.  also known by his gamer name, “M3UP” is one of those people who may be gone in the natural, but his spirit and smile will be with us always.  He was born September 21, 1988, the beloved son of Larry Rock and Michelle Amos.  He departed this earthly life on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. He attended Job Corp in North Carolina and graduated in 2006.  Domonique had a smile that would change a rooms atomosphere.  He was large in stature, but as his mother called him, “Her Gentle Giant.”

He was a family guy and he loved his nieces and nephews as if they were his own.  Grandparents often say they don’thave favotrites, but Domonique was definitely Momma Sallies favorite.

He was a devoted finance’ to the love of his life, Shontavia for 17 years.  He was also the protector of his twin sisters. He would reach out daily to each of them to make sure they were fine and having a good day.  If they were not, he would do whatever he could to make sure their day was made better.

He was his mother’s Gentle Giant who was very busy and felt he knew everything, and of course, he was always right about everything.  He was a very loving Giant and if he loved you, trust, that his love was real.  He also loved his big brother, De`quan and would support everything his big brother accomplished.

Larry is preceded in death by  his granmothers, Sallie Amos and Adabell Hickman; a special aunt, Vera Moore; and his niece, Charisma Amos.

Those cherishing fond and precious memories are his loving parents, Michelle Amos of Sumter, South Carolina; and Larry Rock of Columbia, South Carolina; loving brother, De`quan Amos; loving sisters, Kanoshia and Kaniesha Rock, and Alquan Hilton all of Sumter, South Carolina; two nephews, Braylen, De`Sean; four nieces, Cali, Chynna, Bailey and De`lilah; a host of other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom join the family in sharing the grief caused by his departure.

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Funeral Services Offered

Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home offers a wide range of funeral services designed to help families celebrate the life of their loved one. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, they provide personalized solutions that cater to each family's preferences and budget. Their services include:

• Traditional Funerals: A classic funeral service with a visitation, ceremony, and burial or entombment.
• Cremation Services: A dignified and affordable option for those who prefer cremation.
• Memorial Services: A celebration of life without the presence of the deceased.
• Pre-Planning: Assisting families in planning ahead for their own funeral arrangements.

Facilities and Amenities

The Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home facility is designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families and friends to gather. Their spacious chapel can accommodate large crowds, while their visitation rooms offer an intimate setting for smaller gatherings. Additional amenities include:

• A state-of-the-art sound system for music and video tributes.
• A selection of caskets, urns, and memorial products.
• On-site parking and wheelchair accessibility.

Community Involvement

Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Sumter community and actively participates in local events and charities. They believe in giving back to the community that has supported them over the years. Some of their community involvement initiatives include:

• Sponsoring local charity events and fundraisers.
• Partnering with local organizations to provide educational resources on grief support and funeral planning.
• Offering free workshops and seminars on topics such as advance care planning and bereavement support.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, which is why Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home offers a range of grief support resources to help families cope with their loss. These resources include:

• Grief counseling sessions with trained professionals.
• Support groups for adults and children.
• Online grief resources and educational materials.

Staff Profiles

The team at Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional service to families. Meet some of their key staff members:

• [Name], Funeral Director: With over 20 years of experience in the funeral industry, [Name] brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to his role.
• [Name], Family Service Counselor: [Name] has been helping families plan ahead for their funeral arrangements for over 15 years.

Contact Information and Online Presence

To learn more about Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home or to schedule a consultation, please visit their website or contact them directly:

• Phone: [phone number]
• Email: [email address]
• Website: [website URL]
• Social Media: Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates, news, and helpful resources.

By choosing Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home, families can trust that they will receive compassionate care, personalized attention, and exceptional service during their time of need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased, although it can also be written by a funeral home or newspaper staff member.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about memorial services or donations in lieu of flowers.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and detail desired. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to write a comprehensive obituary.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online obituary platforms allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased with their obituary.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may accept online submissions, while others may require email or fax submissions.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is possible to write your own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in the way you want it to be remembered.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for online publication.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make minor corrections to an obituary after it has been published. However, significant changes may not be allowed due to space constraints or deadlines.

How long are obituaries kept online?

The length of time an obituary remains online varies depending on the publication or platform. Some may keep archives for several years or even permanently.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, yes. Check with the original publication or platform to see if they allow republication or have any restrictions on doing so.

What is an online obituary guestbook?

An online obituary guestbook allows friends and family to leave messages of condolence, share memories, and upload photos in memory of the deceased.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites. Local libraries or historical societies may also have archives of old newspapers that can be searched.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Yes! Many people share obituaries on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to notify friends and acquaintances of a loved one's passing.

What is the purpose of an obituary archive?

An obituary archive provides a permanent record of a person's life and legacy, allowing future generations to research their family history and genealogy.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes! Quotes, poems, or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can be included in an obituary to add personality and depth.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

Contact the publication or platform where the obituary was published as soon as possible to report any errors or inaccuracies. They will work with you to correct the mistakes.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary?

Yes! Including this information in an obituary allows friends and family to make donations in memory of the deceased instead of sending flowers.

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

A funeral notice typically includes details about the funeral service itself, such as date, time, location, and officiant. An obituary focuses on the life and legacy of the deceased.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for many years?

Yes! Writing an obituary for someone who has been deceased for many years can still be a meaningful way to honor their memory and share their story with others.

How do I ensure that my loved one's obituary is accurate and respectful?

Take your time when writing the obituary, gather information from multiple sources if necessary, and proofread carefully before submitting it for publication.