Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha Obituaries

About Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha

Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha is a trusted and compassionate funeral home located at 111 S. 1st St., Alpha, IL, 61413. For generations, the Fippinger family has been dedicated to providing exceptional funeral services to the families of Alpha and surrounding communities. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha has established itself as a pillar of the community, offering personalized and dignified funeral arrangements that celebrate the lives of loved ones.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Founded on the principles of compassion, respect, and dignity, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha has built a reputation for delivering outstanding funeral services that cater to the unique needs of each family. The funeral home's experienced staff is dedicated to providing emotional support and guidance throughout the funeral planning process, ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha offers a range of choices to suit individual preferences and cultural traditions.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Edward Herman Schultz Jr. - June 14, 1937 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Alpha)

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David L. Hunn - August 19, 1943 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Alpha)

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John L. McAlister - January 03, 1947 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: In loving memory of John Lee McAlister, we are saddened to announce that John passed away at the age of 77 on April 1st 2024 at home with his family in Coal Valley, IL. John was born on January 3rd, 1947 in Oklahoma to Jerald D. McAlister and Laura Jean Hulme McAlister. The family eventually settled in Aledo, IL., where John grew up helping on the family farm and graduating as an Aledo Green Dragon in 1966. John put himself through barber college and in 1974, John opened Man’s Image on the Avenue of the Cities in East Moline. Man’s image became one of the top hair salons in the area, offering styled cuts, color, perms and hairpieces. John cut hair for over 50 years. He loved his clientele; he considered them friends and many became like family. John always said he was fortunate to go to work every day loving what he did. John lived with a smile on his face and had a sense of humor that brightened everyone's day. He was compassionate toward all people and had a love for life that was contagious. John loved boating on the Mississippi, golfing with friends, and caring for his immaculate yard. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten by all those that surrounded him.

John was a devoted husband, survived by his wife of 47 years, Renee McAlister. John was a loving father, survived by children Krista (Mike) Hutton, Jill McAlister (Greg Gerstmyer) and Jon (Joan) McAlister. John was preceded in death by his parents and survived by siblings Bob (Mary Lee) McAlister and Sandra (Bob) Faucet. Grandchildren who survived John include Hannah Hutton, Jon Hutton and Graycen Gerstmyer.

Fippinger Funeral Home in Aledo, IL will handle a private family memorial service. A celebration of life will be held at the River Room located in Hyatt Place on Bend Blvd in East Moline, IL on Saturday April 13th from 1pm to 3pm for those that would like to join his family in honoring his memory.

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Rollin L. Swanson - March 29, 1942 - March 31, 2024

Departed: 03/31/2024 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Rollin L. (Rolly) Swanson was born at home in rural New Windsor, IL on March 29, 1942. He was the fourth son of five to Clifford and Marjorie (Hughes) Swanson.

He attended Hopewell School, New Windsor and Alwood Schools, graduating in 1960. August 26, 1961, he married Sherry M. Gehring of Oneida, she is the daughter of Bruce and Ruth Amy (Harmison) Gehring.

In 1964 Rollin graduated from WIU, Macomb, IL and moved his family to Stockton, IL as he began a management training program with Jo Davies County Farm Services. In 1967, the family moved to rural Oneida to farm and raise pigs. In 1972, the family moved to rural Rio, IL to continue farming and raising pigs until his retirement in 2007, when they moved to rural Alpha, IL. Rolly worked hard and played hard. He enjoyed fishing, boating, traveling, and entertaining his family.

He was baptized, confirmed, married and raised his four children in the Lutheran faith. Rolly is survived by his wife of 62 ½ years, Sherry; four children, Christina (Larry) Youngren, Jeanette (Rick) Pryor, James (Wendy) Swanson and Cynthia (Cary) Johnson. Six grandsons, Brian (Alison) and Evan (Casey) Youngren, Danny and Nathan Kay, Tucker Swanson and Tyler Johnson; six granddaughters, Kelly (Ryan) Wood, Christie and Natalie Kay, Pyper Swanson, Kaylin Hellyer and Megan Johnson; three special grands, Landon Willett, Samantha and Sydney Pryor; ten great-grandchildren; two brothers, Russell (Nan) Swanson, Rodney (Lolly) Swanson both of Rio; two brothers-in-law, Wm A. Snyder and Gary (Marlene) Gehring both of Galesburg; one sister-in-law, Louise Nelson of Orion; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceding him in death were his parents, two brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard (Janet) Swanson and Robert (Shirley) Swanson; brother-in-law, Earl Nelson and sister-in-law, Sandra Snyder

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Marvin C. Enstrom - August 03, 1936 - March 26, 2024

Departed: 03/26/2024 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Marvin Enstrom, 87, of Alpha, passed away March 26, 2024, at St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.

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Kenneth W. Kearney - October 19, 1935 - March 21, 2024

Departed: 03/21/2024 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Ken Kearney, 88 years of Alpha, IL, passed away on March 21, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be from 3-6 pm on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Peterson-Wallin-Knox Funeral Home in Alpha. The Funeral Service will be 10:00 am on Monday, March 25, 2024 at the Alpha United Methodist Church. Burial will be at the Alpha Cemetery. Condolences may be left at www.petersonwallinknox.com.

Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels or the family.

Ken was born on his family farm on October 19, 1935 in Macedonia, IL, the son of Walter and Nadine Kearney.

He married Phyllis in 1955. They designed and refurbished numerous homes throughout their moves and several in this area. He was a jack of all trades. You name it, he could build it, wire it, weld it with perfection. In past years he loved working in his yard and relaxing in his hammock.

He attended HS in Benton Illinois. After HS he worked as a welder for Caterpillar in Joliet. Shortly after, he began his career with FS working in Springfield, Mendota, Columbus, WI and finally settling here in Alpha as the General Manager of Alpha FS. After retirement he engineered and received a patent on a dust control device for Feed Mills and Grain Elevators. During this time of his life, he and Phyllis traveled to many parts of the US, Canada, Mexico City, Asia and South America promoting the Dustmaster. He has been an active member of the Alpha United Methodist Church for 52 years. He was on the Board of Directors for the Farmers State Bank of Alpha. He was also involved with the Illinois Grain and Feed Association, as well as other organizations. Ken cherished his family and the friendships he created along his journey, he never met a stranger. Ken’s wonderful sense of humor, his caring heart and especially his world class fudge will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Kearney; children, Kathy (Barry) Nelson, Alpha, Patty (Jesse) Ramirez, Woodhull and Penny (Bill) Dettman, Ridott; 6 grandchildren, Dustin (Joy) Nelson, Derek (Trisha) Nelson, Kendra (Sean) O’Brien, Kassi Cowser, Alyssa (Mike) Hawkins, Wade (Jocelyn) Dettman, 12 great-grandchildren, Danika, Jette, Sadie, Stella, Penelope, Addy, Bennett, Gage, Blaize, Espy, Jared, and Camron; sister-in-law, MaryBelle Kearney and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, 3 siblings and a grandson.

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Eulalia H. Garrett - July 05, 1925 - January 12, 2024

Departed: 01/12/2024 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Eulalia Hickok Garrett of New Windsor.IL, passed away at Allure of the Quad Cities on January 12,2024. Per her request, cremation rites will be accorded. No services are planned at this time. Peterson-Wallin-Knox Funeral Home in Alpha, Illinois is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be left to Eulalia's family at http://www.petersonwallinknox.com.

Eulalia was born in New Windsor, Illinois, on July 5, 1925, the daughter of Myron and Violet [Gebhart] Hickok. She married Rex W Garrett in San Antonio, TX on December 7, 1944. They farmed on the Garrett family farm and Eulalia later worked and retired from Deere & Co in their Corporate Planning Division. She enjoyed genealogy having traced her own family and Mercer County history. She was a member of the Historical Society of Aledo and donated her work to them to make it available to all. She was also a member of Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, Clara Lodge, Farm Bureau, the New Windsor Presbyterian Church and was a founding member of the George Norris Legion Auxiliary Post #484.

Eulalia is survived by her daughters: Virginia (Scott) Stubblefield of Lewisville, TX and Rebecca Burris [Keith] Petrie of Brooksville, FL. Grandchildren: William (Jolie) Burris of Oakwood, IL, Angela [Mark] Milstein of Pacific Palisades, CA., and Alison (Bill) Taylor of Brooksville, FL. , Angela Bowman of Plymouth, Indiana, Courtney [Britt] Petrie of Boulder, CO., Hillary (Dave Prenske) Petrie of Brooklyn, NY., Robert (Denise) Stubblefield, and Amy (Bryan) Henderson. Great grandchildren include, Cole [Brittany] Burris, Carli Burris, Emma Milstein, Grace Milstein, Benjamin Milstein, Binyam Milstein, William Taylor, Jackson Taylor, Max Bowman, Ashton Bowman, Martie Prenske, Josh Kiser and Emily Kiser. Also surviving is a great-great grandchild, Wren Burris and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister and her husband, Marcia and Bill Johnson, brother and his wife, Wayne and Virginia Hickok.

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Ronald R. Nelson - July 29, 1930 - December 27, 2023

Departed: 12/27/2023 (Alpha)

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Pamela J. Cauchon - September 05, 1950 - December 17, 2023

Departed: 12/17/2023 (Alpha)

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Noel L. Cain - October 29, 1946 - December 06, 2023

Departed: 12/06/2023 (Alpha)

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Ann M. Enstrom - June 20, 1936 - November 20, 2023

Departed: 11/20/2023 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Ann M. Enstrom, 87, of Alpha, passed away Monday, November 20, 2023, at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.

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Todd William Litwiler - October 26, 1962 - November 07, 2023

Departed: 11/07/2023 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Todd Litwiler, 61, of New Windsor, IL passed away Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at his home. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, November 10, 2023 at the New Windsor "Petrie" Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be left to Tri County Ambulance. Online condolences can be made at www.petersonwallinknox.com

Todd was born on October 26, 1962 in Moline, the son of Robert and Jere Keck Litwiler. He attended Winola High School. Todd enjoyed hunting, fishing, and mowing. He loved animals, especially his dog and cat.

He is survived by his son, Donnie Litwiler; sister, Deanna (Randy) Spivey of Alpha; brother, Jesse (Molly) Litwiler of Matherville; sister-in-law, Kathi Litwiler of Woodhull; many nieces and nephews; and his good friend, Rod McCaw of New Windsor.

Todd was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bob Litwiler.

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Jerry Gould - January 27, 1940 - January 28, 2024

Departed: 01/28/2024 (Alpha)

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Jeanne Ann Streeter - September 02, 1934 - May 20, 2024

Departed: 05/20/2024 (Alpha)

Obituary Preview: Jeanne Ann Streeter (Nelson) passed away on May 20,2024 at the age of 89 in her home in New Windsor, IL. She was born on September 2, 1934, in Galesburg, IL. Jeanne is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Larry Streeter, and her children Greg (Leisa) Streeter, Marshall (Jan) Streeter, Chris (Elisa) Streeter, and Elizabeth (Stacey) White. She is also survived by seven cherished grandchildren Emalie (Pat) Traylor of Denver, CO, Claire Streeter of Amarillo, TX, Lauren (Max) Edwards of Denver, CO, Colton Streeter of Ames, IA, Tayler Streeter of Fort Dodge, IA, Connor White and Evelyn White both of Grayslake, IL. In 1951, Larry Streeter, asked Jeanne to prom. She and Larry spent the next 73 years twirling, spinning and gliding through life together. They were known far and wide as excellent dancers. The envy of many. After graduating from New Windsor High School in 1952, Jeanne attended Bradley University where she studied nursing and pledged the Gamma Phi Beta sorority. She left college to marry Larry in 1955 and they started a family a few years later. Jeanne was a magnificent homemaker. She bravely went back to school as she approached her 50th birthday. She was a diligent student juggling studying A&P and the like, while the boys were in college themselves and Elizabeth was in grade school. She completed her RN degree from Black Hawk College in 1984. She held a variety of nursing jobs before she found her calling at the Galesburg Clinic where she worked until her retirement.A devoted member of the New Windsor Presbyterian Church, Jeanne actively participated in church activities and served as an elder and chair of the church's food stand for many years. She was known for her love of entertaining, baking, gardening, sewing, and knitting. The Streeter's Christmas and Kentucky Derby Parties were a highlight, showcasing her baking and decorating skills. Jeanne and Larry loved to travel. After retirement, they enjoyed traveling and visited both Hawaii and Alaska. The mountains, lakes, and waterfalls of the Western US and the Canadian Rockies were among her favorite places on Earth.Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Kathryn Nelson, and her sister-in-law, Susan Streeter Peterson.Services for Jeanne Streeter will be held at the New Windsor Presbyterian Church with a visitation on Monday, May 27, 2024 from 4-7 pm and the funeral on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 11 am. Per Jeanne’s request, friends and family are encouraged to wear cheerful colors. Contributions in her memory can be made to the New Windsor Cemetery Maintenance and Improvements Fund, or the New Windsor Presbyterian Church. Peterson-Wallin-Knox Funeral Home in Alpha, IL, is assisting with the funeral arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.petersonwallinknox.comThe family would like to thank Mary Cooper and the team at Traditions Hospice for their loving care of Jeanne; and the community for their support.

Jeanne Ann Streeter (Nelson) passed away on May 20,2024 at the age of 89 in her home in New Windsor, IL. She was born on September 2, 1934, in Galesburg, IL. Jeanne is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Larry Streeter, and her children Greg (Leisa) Streeter, Marshall (Jan) Streeter, Chris (Elisa) Streeter, and Elizabeth (Stacey) White. She is also survived by seven cherished grandchildren Emalie (Pat) Traylor of Denver, CO, Claire Streeter of Amarillo, TX, Lauren (Max) Edwards of Denver, CO, Colton Streeter of Ames, IA, Tayler Streeter of Fort Dodge, IA, Connor White and Evelyn White both of Grayslake, IL.

In 1951, Larry Streeter, asked Jeanne to prom. She and Larry spent the next 73 years twirling, spinning and gliding through life together. They were known far and wide as excellent dancers. The envy of many. After graduating from New Windsor High School in 1952, Jeanne attended Bradley University where she studied nursing and pledged the Gamma Phi Beta sorority. She left college to marry Larry in 1955 and they started a family a few years later. Jeanne was a magnificent homemaker.

She bravely went back to school as she approached her 50th birthday. She was a diligent student juggling studying A&P and the like, while the boys were in college themselves and Elizabeth was in grade school. She completed her RN degree from Black Hawk College in 1984. She held a variety of nursing jobs before she found her calling at the Galesburg Clinic where she worked until her retirement.

A devoted member of the New Windsor Presbyterian Church, Jeanne actively participated in church activities and served as an elder and chair of the church's food stand for many years.

She was known for her love of entertaining, baking, gardening, sewing, and knitting. The Streeter's Christmas and Kentucky Derby Parties were a highlight, showcasing her baking and decorating skills.

Jeanne and Larry loved to travel. After retirement, they enjoyed traveling and visited both Hawaii and Alaska. The mountains, lakes, and waterfalls of the Western US and the Canadian Rockies were among her favorite places on Earth.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Kathryn Nelson, and her sister-in-law, Susan Streeter Peterson. Services for Jeanne Streeter will be held at the New Windsor Presbyterian Church with a visitation on Monday, May 27, 2024 from 4-7 pm and the funeral on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 11 am. Per Jeanne’s request, friends and family are encouraged to wear cheerful colors. Contributions in her memory can be made to the New Windsor Cemetery Maintenance and Improvements Fund, or the New Windsor Presbyterian Church. Peterson-Wallin-Knox Funeral Home in Alpha, IL, is assisting with the funeral arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.petersonwallinknox.com

The family would like to thank Mary Cooper and the team at Traditions Hospice for their loving care of Jeanne; and the community for their support.

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Personalized Funeral Services

Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha understands that every life is unique, and therefore, every funeral service should be tailored to reflect the personality, interests, and achievements of the deceased. The funeral home's team works closely with families to create personalized funeral services that honor the memory of their loved one. From selecting music and flowers to crafting a eulogy or creating a memorial video, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha ensures that every aspect of the funeral service is meaningful and memorable.

Cremation Options

In addition to traditional funeral services, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha also offers cremation options for families who prefer this alternative. The funeral home's cremation services are designed to provide a dignified and respectful way to say goodbye, while also offering flexibility and affordability. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha provides expert guidance and support throughout the cremation process.

Pre-Planning Services

Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha recognizes the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements. By making informed decisions about funeral services in advance, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, while also alleviating the emotional burden on their loved ones. The funeral home's pre-planning services allow individuals to plan ahead, select their preferred funeral options, and make financial arrangements, providing peace of mind for themselves and their families.

Facilities and Amenities

Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families and friends gathering to pay their respects. The funeral home's spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while its visitation rooms offer an intimate setting for smaller groups. Additional amenities include ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a selection of refreshments.

Community Involvement

Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha is deeply committed to the Alpha community and actively participates in local events and initiatives. The funeral home's staff members are involved in various charitable organizations and volunteer their time to support worthy causes. By engaging with the community, Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha demonstrates its dedication to serving families beyond the scope of traditional funeral services.

Contact Information

If you're seeking more information about Fippinger Funeral Home - Alpha or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced funeral directors, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by phone at [insert phone number], or by visiting our website at [insert website URL]. Our office is open [insert hours of operation] Monday through Friday, and we welcome your inquiries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's often published in newspapers, online obituary platforms, or funeral home websites to share the news with family, friends, and community.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to notify others of a person's passing and provide information about their life, achievements, and surviving family members. It also serves as a way to honor and celebrate the deceased person's life.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased, although it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer. In some cases, the deceased person may have written their own obituary in advance.

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 a brief biography, achievements, and any notable accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs. Online obituaries can be longer and more detailed than those published in newspapers.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the basic details such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed and personalized tribute to the deceased person's life.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some newspapers allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased person. This can help to make the obituary more personal and meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper through their website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and pay any associated fees.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can ensure that your life is represented accurately and according to your wishes.

What are some tips for writing a good obituary?

Some tips for writing a good obituary include being honest and authentic, using specific details and anecdotes, and highlighting the person's achievements and personality traits. Avoid clichés and overly sentimental language.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform. Some online platforms offer free or low-cost options, while newspaper obituaries can range from $50 to $500 or more.

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

In some cases, it may be possible to edit or update an obituary after it's been published, but this depends on the publication or platform's policies. It's best to check with them beforehand.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you want to keep the obituary private, you can opt for a private or password-protected online memorial page or limit access to specific individuals or groups.

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

Yes, it's common to include information about charitable donations or memorial contributions in an obituary. This allows friends and family to make a donation in lieu of flowers or other gifts.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The length of time an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform or website. Some may keep them available indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period.

Can I create an online memorial page for someone who has passed away?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to create a memorial page for someone who has passed away. These pages can include photos, stories, condolences, and other tributes.

What is the difference between an online obituary and a social media post?

An online obituary is a formal notice that provides detailed information about the deceased person's life and passing. A social media post is a more informal way to share news and condolences with friends and followers.

Can I use humor in an obituary?

Yes, humor can be used in an obituary as long as it's tasteful and respectful. Humor can help to capture the person's personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If you need to include sensitive or difficult information in an obituary, such as a cause of death or personal struggles, try to approach it with honesty and compassion. Consider seeking guidance from a funeral home or professional writer if needed.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or poems can be included in an obituary as long as they're relevant and meaningful. They can add depth and emotion to the tribute.

What if I'm unsure about what to say in an obituary?

If you're unsure about what to say in an obituary, consider talking to friends or family members who knew the deceased person well. You can also seek guidance from a funeral home or professional writer.

How do I proofread an obituary for errors?

Carefully review the obituary for spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and factual inaccuracies before submitting it for publication. Ask others to review it as well to catch any mistakes you may have missed.

Can I republish an old obituary online?

Yes, you can republish an old obituary online as long as you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder. This can help preserve family history and make it accessible to future generations.

What are some alternative ways to share news of someone's passing?

In addition to traditional newspaper obituaries, you can share news of someone's passing through social media posts, email notifications, phone calls, text messages, or private online memorials.