Gaffney Funeral Home Obituaries

About Gaffney Funeral Home

Gaffney Funeral Home, located at 1002 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98405, has been a trusted and compassionate provider of funeral services to the Tacoma community for many years. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this funeral home has earned a reputation for delivering personalized and dignified funeral arrangements that honor the memories of loved ones.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

At Gaffney Funeral Home, the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. That's why they are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to families during their time of need. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the team at Gaffney Funeral Home is committed to guiding families through the funeral planning process with kindness, empathy, and professionalism.

Funeral Obiturary Search

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

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Richard L Garrison - October 06, 1941 - April 20, 2022

Departed: 04/20/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Richard L. Garrison, 80, passed away at Allenmore Hospital on April 20, 2022.  He was born October 6, 1941.  He attended Holy Rosary School and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1959.  After graduating he joined the U.S. Army and served for 3 years.  He worked at the Boeing Renton plant moved on to Tacoma Boatbuilding and retired from Todd Shipyards in Seattle.

He is survived by his wife Joanna M. (Moe) and his three children Deborah Macias, Michael Garrison and Sandra Martin as well as five grandchildren Nicole and Garrett Macias, Samantha and Ashley Martin and Aaron Garrison.

He is also survived by his sister Janet Musselman and a niece, Terryl and two nephews, Brian and David.

A viewing and Rosary will be held Wednesday April 27, 2022 at 7pm at Gaffney Funeral Home.  A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Ann Catholic Church at 72nd and Park Avenue on Thursday April 28th at 11:00 am preceding the burial at Calvary Cemetery.  Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.

View Full Obituary

Carol Lee Catherine Jensen - January 02, 1944 - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Married to Paul Jensen April 8, 1967. Graduated from Lincoln High School 1962.

Hobbies include: Quilting, camping, fishing, clam digging, and spending time with her grandkids.

Survived by Paul (husband), Daughter (Christine), Sons (Steven and Brian), 7 grand children - Zachary, Branden, Kyle, Sarah, Katie, Rhian, and Annabelle.

Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 1st from 1pm-4pm at Charlie's Restaurant in Puyallup.

View Full Obituary

Wolfred Bauer - February 19, 1929 - April 03, 2022

Departed: 04/03/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Wolfred “Shady” Bauer was born in Bellingham, WA on February 19, 1929 to Wolffred and Mabel Bauer.   He died peacefully at his home in Tacoma, WA on April 3, 2022.

His wife of 63 years, Marlene, preceded him in 2016.  Shady is survived by siblings Alma (Andy) Anderson, Ellen Atkinson and Bill (Janie) Bauer; daughters Laurie Bauer and Sheri (David) Teesdale; grandsons Alexander (Hannah) Teesdale and Patrick Teesdale; and great-grandchildren Eliana, Ryan, Elowyn and one to come.

We will miss our conversations on current events, his thoughtful perspective on life, having macchiatos at Valhalla Coffee, the way he always remembered everyone’s names forever, his love of learning, and his phenomenal pork loin roast that somehow can’t be duplicated.

View Full Obituary

Karen Zadow - August 29, 1957 - April 01, 2022

Departed: 04/01/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Karen Zadow, beloved daughter, cherished sister, sister-in-law, aunt, niece, cousin and friend, died in the warmth of her childhood home on Friday, April 1st, at age 64.  She was born to Daryl and Mary Zadow in Tacoma, Washington and attended Lowell Elementary, Mason Jr. High and Stadium High schools.

After graduating from Stadium, Karen set out to be a hairdresser graduating from cosmetology school and later from Gene Juarez academy.  She was a talented hairdresser for over 40 years and took pride in her clients looking, and feeling, beautiful.  Karen treasured her clients, and colleagues, many of which became wonderful friends.  If some of us are now looking a bit scruffy, it is because we have not found a stylist that matches her caliber.

Family was very important to Karen and she had an abundance of love for everyone in her family.  She had a special relationship with her father and adored nephews Nathan and Braden.  Although she didn't have the time or energy to share feelings with all her family and friends before passing, she wanted them to know they were in her heart, thoughts and prayers.

Karen was a beautiful, independent, fun-loving, generous, dedicated, at times indecisive, woman with a ginormous heart.  She had a special gift for making friends wherever she went.  Friendship with Karen could be new or span decades and many friends became part of her extended family, which was a blessing for all.

Christianity was the essence of Karen’s life.  She was blessed with a dear spiritual mentor and a bible study posse that offered a meaningful path to strengthen her faith.  They shared their devotions, and friendships, at weekly meetings and annual retreats at the Oregon Coast with good food, wine, coffee and shopping.

Traveling and eating great foods were two of Karen’s passions.  Many of us remember her beautiful smile, tan skin, and lively stories after vacations in Mexico.  As we know, she was drawn to Mexico by the beautiful ocean beaches, warm weather, friends and culture.

Karen and her cousins often joked with Uncle Tony about who was his favorite niece and, though he is too gracious to say, some of the cousins suspect that Karen is his favorite and she has taken that secret with her.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Daryl.  She is survived by her dear mother, Mary, sisters Debbie and Cheri (husband Uli), brother Bill (wife Shelly), niece Lori, nephews Nathan (wife Melanie), Braden, and Alex (wife Karissa), the DeRosa family, cousins and “hand-picked” sisters.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 12th from 1 to 4pm at the Point Defiance Pagoda.

View Full Obituary

Arthur Joseph Delisle Jr. - April 03, 1934 - March 27, 2022

Departed: 03/27/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Arthur Joseph Delisle, 87, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2022 in Lakewood, Washington. He was born on April 3, 1934 in Rumford Maine to Arthur and Evelina (Drapeau) Delisle. Arthur grew up in Rumford Maine and joined the U.S. Army on April 22, 1953. He married Marjorie May Rice on December 26, 1954 in Salem Massachusetts. After 24 years of service, he retired as Command Sergeant Major E-9 in Lakewood, WA. After retirement he went on to a full career selling insurance with NCOA and then Modern Woodmen of America. He remained involved with the Sgt. Majors. Association. Arthur enjoyed boating, fishing and traveling and watching westerns.

Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, brothers John and William, daughter Evelina and his beloved wife Marjorie.

He is lovingly survived by six children, Patricia R. Delisle of Lakewood, WA, Arthur J. (Myong) Delisle, III of Keene, NH, George E. (Hamako) Delisle of Warner Robins, GA, Mildred J. Delisle of Marysville, WA, Marjorie (Myron) Fritts of Lakewood, WA, and Joan F. Block of Lakewood, WA; siblings Maurice Delisle, Robert Delisle, Dennis Delisle and Ann Bolduc; 21 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, one great-great granddaughter as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

View Full Obituary

Gail Elizabeth Charboneau - March 09, 1958 - March 27, 2022

Departed: 03/27/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Gail Elizabeth Charboneau (née Mahon), 64, of Spanaway Washington, went to her eternal reward on March 27, 2022.

Gail was born to William and Elenor Mahon on March 9, 1958 in Great Falls Montana. She spent her youth in Great Falls attending St. Peter and Paul, and Great Falls Central Catholic (until it closed in 1973) and graduated from Great Falls High in 1976.

She married in 1979 to Kevin (divorced in 2007). The Air Force soon assigned Kevin to McCord AFB, and they relocated to Spanaway Washington, where Gail would live for the rest of her life.

Her first child Kevin W was born in 1981, followed by David in 1984, and Elizabeth in 1989. Gail spent most of the 1990s working tirelessly as a stay at home mom: hand crafting halloween costumes, planning cub scout and girl scout activities and getting her kids involved in various sports and activities.

When Elizabeth entered school, Gail became a frequent volunteer. She discovered she had a passion and gift for teaching. After working for a few years as a paraeducator, she went back to school, earning a BA from University of Washington (‘05), and an MA in Education from Pacific Lutheran University (‘07). In fall of 2007, she began working full time as an elementary school teacher in the Bethel School District.

Besides teaching, Gail’s passions included her 8 grandchildren, Lego and art. She is known affectionately by her grandchildren as “Lego Grandma” and spent many hours building Lego projects with them.  Among her many works of art, a “Starry Starry Night” themed carousel horse sculpture was featured in a Downtown Seattle street art project entitled “Ponies on Parade" in 2005. She enjoyed traveling and was often on adventures with her sister Marci or with her close friends/trouble makers who referred to themselves as the “YeeYaws.”

She is survived by her three children, 7 grandchildren, brother, sister, mother and father, and many friends.

She will be missed.

Funeral Mass to be held at Our Lady Queen of Heaven in Spanaway on April 23, at 11am. Reception to follow at Evergreen Elementary School. Inurnment will be at a later date at Holy Rood Cemetery in Seattle.

View Full Obituary

Roy Paul Koola - February 03, 1964 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Roy Paul Koola.

View Full Obituary

Judith Ann Ley - November 01, 1938 - March 21, 2022

Departed: 03/21/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Judy, of Gig Harbor, was born in Bremerton to Margaret (Adams) and Jack Pease .  She was predeceased by her parents and stepfather David Lesh, her husband Gerald and her son Michael. She is survived by sons Christopher (Laura), Matthew (Crystal), Daniel (Rachel), daughter Patty and her many and much-loved grandchildren.

Her father passed away her senior year in high school and she was only able to attend 2 years of college at Seattle University. There, she met her husband Jerry and they shared 56 years of marriage, faith, family and service.

Judy loved her family and her faith. A prayer was always at hand for every occasion, and she spent many, many early morning hours praying the rosary for those in her life. She loved the Roman Catholic faith she had been baptized into and sought always to live faithfully. Her greatest wish over the last few months was “to go home.” Now she has..

She served as a member of the parish council and as President of the Mothers’ Club at St. Charles Borromeo before moving to Gig Harbor. In the early 70’s she and Jerry became early founders and leaders of Human Life of Washington. Mom was asked by Kathy McEntee to help begin the March for Life in Washington. Her hope was for the day when it would no longer be necessary, but she spent one day each January delivering roses and standing with others until her health would no longer allow it. She served as a helper at Guadalupe Maternity Center for many years. Praying with and providing support to women and children needing a little help. Judy and Jerry helped begin Holy Family School (now St Nicholas Catholic School) in Gig Harbor when her grandchildren began school. Most recently she was a member of St Joseph’s parish in Tacoma.

Her family meant the world to her. Every time a grandchild of any age entered the room her eyes brightened and she smiled with joy. She prayed for our souls daily and often, even as dementia overtook her memories. She remembered to dedicate her family and many dear friends to a good and great God.

We would like to thank Chi/Franciscan Hospice and the compassionate care they provided. We would also like to thank Gina Cruz who helped care for and love her daily. Requiem Mass:  12pm Thursday March 31 – St Joseph’s Catholic Church 602 S 34th St, Tacoma WA Rosary: To precede mass at 11:30am

View Full Obituary

Clarence Wayne Leingang - March 30, 1934 - March 18, 2022

Departed: 03/18/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Clarence W. Leingang (aka Luger) died peacefully in his home on March 18, 2022, just twelve days shy of his 88th birthday. He was preceded in death by his wife and lifelong partner, Barbara; his parents Jake and Eva Leingang; his brother Kenneth; and his sister Delilah Sirianni.

Clarence was born in Mandan, ND, on March 30, 1934, in humble beginnings.  He was the oldest of four children. At a young age his family moved to South Tacoma and settled at 50th and Oakes Street. He attended Visitation Grade School where he first met his future bride, Barbara LaVeille.  They had no idea they would meet again in college and marry 15 years later.  After Visitation, he attended Gray Middle School and Lincoln High School graduating in 1952.

As a boy Clarence showed an aptitude and gift for sports.  He played baseball, basketball, and football.  He also delivered newspapers for the Tacoma News Tribune where he learned the importance of customer service, something that would further his career with Puget Sound National Bank.

Clarence attended Seattle University where he earned a degree in Business.  During his junior year, he became reacquainted with the freshman Barbara LaVeille and the rest was history.  On December 31, 1956, Clarence enlisted in the Marine Corps and was posted to Camp Pendleton, CA.  In August 1958, Mom and Dad married at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Tacoma and the young couple moved to Vista, CA where Barbara worked as a medical technologist until Dad’s enlistment ended in December of 1958.  Dad was extremely proud of his time in the Marine Corps.  He never forgot his rifle number, regularly spit shined his dress shoes on Saturday afternoon, and ensured he and his boys (when young) had inspection ready haircuts.

After the Marine Corps, he and Barbara relocated to Tacoma.  Following two years with The National Bank of Washington, Clarence began his career with Puget Sound National Bank that lasted for 32 years until the acquisition by Key Bank in 1992.  While with PSNB, he opened and managed several branches most notably 72nd & Portland, Lincoln, K St, and the Main Branch on Pacific Avenue.  Clarence was a just boss and leader and mentored numerous future bankers.  He was known for his fairness and personal interest in all his customers.  This was back in the day when branch managers had more authority to approve loans that today would most likely be denied by strict and impersonal underwriting rules set at the corporate level.  He considered it vital to know all his customers, both individuals and small businesses, and was known to waive fees when he knew his customers were experiencing tough financial times.  To his last days, Dad would always frequent his customers’ businesses, knowing it was important to them as well as the societal welfare of the local neighborhood.  He also graduated from the prestigious Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington.  His forward-thinking masters level thesis was on ATMs and how the banking industry needed to prepare for this coming technology.

To say sports was a hobby of his would be a huge understatement.   Dad coached little league for decades.  Baseball teams from East Side Boys Club as well as football, baseball and basketball at Sacred Heart School, and many other All-Star teams as well.  It would be difficult to estimate how many Tacoma youth learned not only the fundamentals of football, baseball, and basketball, but also the of value of teamwork, respect for authority, love of country and importance of being a good citizen.

Besides coaching, Clarence was a member and leader within the Western Washington Officials Association for over 50 years.  He was a well-known and well-respected football and basketball official across all ages from little league, high school, collegiate and PAC-12.  He received many accolades including the “Golden Whistle Award” in 2018 recognizing his 50 years as an official. He ran the clock at Husky Stadium for nearly 10 years and helped form an independent evaluation group that observed and rated younger officials.  Numerous officials owe their careers and techniques to him.  He was very proud of being selected as the first official to “blow the whistle” at the first ever Class A Boys Basketball State Championship Game (Cashmere vs Woodland) at the Tacoma Dome in 1977.

At every family get together, Dad would reminisce stories he shared with other officials about his favorite memories of those 50 years on the gridiron or basketball courts.

Dad enjoyed volunteering.  He loved meeting the troops at the USO Northwest Shali Center on Joint Base Lewis McChord and the USO’s Heroes Suite at Cheney Stadium.  He happily worked the ticket window at Heidelberg Park.

Clarence was also devoted to God, the Catholic Church, and his family. One could safely say he never missed a Sunday Mass, even when traveling. He and Barbara donated countless hours serving the parishes of Sacred Heart, Visitation and St Ann’s. They were also members of the Summit Lake Community Association and spent many years “at the Lake” with their children and grandchildren.  Dad zipping on his jet ski with his baseball hat on backwards was a common sight on Summit Lake.

Clarence is survived by his sister Luella Conway and five children, David (wife Mary Trevithick), Sharyl, Donald (wife Misty Duncan), Dennis (wife Pam Thayer), and Janet (husband Thomas Cook), and his nine grandchildren Cal, Kirk, Emily Vetter, Audrey, Jared, Emily, Aaron, Katy, and Victoria.

Gaffney Funeral Home is handling funeral arrangements.  Funeral services will at St Ann’s Catholic Church on April 22nd: Rosary at 10:15am followed by Mass at 11am. He will be buried at Calvary Cemetery next to Barbara, his parents, and in-laws. The family asks for donations in Dad’s name at USO Northwest - northwest.uso.org, Visitation School Scholarship Fund or St Ann’s Catholic Church.

Rest in peace Dad.  May the Angels lead you into paradise; may the Martyrs come to welcome you and take you to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem.

View Full Obituary

Carmen Ann Reyes Watson - July 13, 1963 - March 13, 2022

Departed: 03/13/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Carmen Ann Reyes Watson.

View Full Obituary

Russell Bass - May 21, 1948 - March 12, 2022

Departed: 03/12/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Rusty was born to Bob & Peggy Bass in Seattle. He graduated from Stadium H.S in 1966 & was an avid baseball player. He joined the Navy & served in the Vietnam War. After working in the electrical field for most of his life, he retired from North Coast Electric. He was a proud member of the VFW Narrows Bridge Post 10018. He is survived by his children Jaime & Kyle & 2 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents & sisters, Robin & Miffin.

Rusty lived by his own rules & stuck to them. He loved playing golf with his buddies & traveling to different golf courses. He was known for not holding back his opinion, his knack for telling it like it is & he always told you the truth especially if you didn't like it. He was also the man known for his endless amount of funny jokes especially his inappropriate ones, which also entertained his fellow barstool spectators.

You can run into him in the afterlife at the nearest alcohol establishment in the sky with a bourbon & coke in one hand & a Marb Red in the other.

At his request, there will be no funeral. We will celebrate him with a toast at an open house starting at 3pm on March 25th at the VFW, 4741 N. Baltimore, Tacoma.

View Full Obituary

Sharon Lee Brown - June 11, 1934 - March 07, 2022

Departed: 03/07/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Sharon Lee (Parizek) Brown June 11, 1934 – March 7, 2022

Tacoma, WA – God called Sharon Brown home on March 7 after blessing her with 87 well-lived years of life on earth. Whether you called her wife, mom, grandma, aunt, friend, or neighbor, you couldn’t help but love Sharon. With a sparkling smile and a dancing spirit, she chose to be happy every day and in doing so brought joy and happiness to her family, friends, and community. She truly was blessed to be a blessing – and she did it beautifully.

Born to Mary and Charles Parizek and raised in Tacoma, she was a graduate of Stadium High School. She married her high school sweetheart, T. Warren Brown, in 1956 and celebrated 48 years of marriage before Warren passed away.

With four daughters and nine grandchildren, Sharon was well loved. But, more importantly, she loved well. She fiercely loved God, her family, her friends, and her community and left a huge impact on all of them. Her quick wit and candor couldn’t help, but make you laugh. Her beautiful eyes twinkled with mischief and joy. Her effervescent personality drew you in and made you want to stay and talk. And she loved to talk. There wasn’t a topic that she wasn’t a self-proclaimed expert, except math. She didn’t like math.

Sharon always said she was twice blessed when it came to loving husbands. Both widowed, Sharon married Jack R. Hamilton in 2006. She was lovingly welcomed into Jack’s family and readily accepted the role of great grandma.

Throughout her life, Sharon strongly supported the Tacoma community. As vice president of Ted Brown Music, Sharon helped promote music education across the state of Washington. She served on the Mary Bridge Brigade as both a member and leader, Festival of Trees, and many other charities. A life-long member of Immanuel Presbyterian Church, she served as Deacon and Elder. She was also a member of the Tacoma Lawn & Tennis Club where she enjoyed playing tennis and “coffee with the girls” for many years. She also loved playing bridge with her monthly bridge group.

In addition to her parents and Warren, Sharon was predeceased by her second-husband Jack Hamilton, grandson Jeffrey Eidson, and son-in-law Rodney Eidson. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Lezlie & Scott Peck, Stephanie & Bob Howe, Whitney & David Grisaffi, Karlee (Karen) & Jim Moore, and eight grandchildren: Sara (Patrick) Peck, Tyler Peck, Matthew Peck, Addison Grisaffi, Garrison (Allyssa) Grisaffi, Caron Grisaffi, Alexandra (Moore) (Ryan) Dietrich, and Victoria Moore; and brother, Doug (Maressa) Parizek).

View Full Obituary

Dolores Jean Cappello Grisaffe - September 15, 1936 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Dolores was born in Tacoma on September 15th, 1936 and went up to Heaven with the angels to be with our Lord Jesus on March 4, 2022.

Also known as “Dee”, she graduated from Stadium High School, then went to work as a bookkeeper in construction while raising her four children. She loved to spend time with her large family, especially for birthdays and holidays, and enjoyed gardening and going for walks; sometimes chatting with neighbors along the way. Always supportive of her children and grandchildren, she loved to cheer them on at their sporting events. Dee was also a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and the Sons of Italy and she enjoyed eating and socializing with friends!

Dolores, Mom, you are loved and greatly missed.

Dolores is preceded in death by her mother Helen, father Eugene, and sister Eileen. She is survived by her children Dino, David (Whitney), Darren, and Gina; sisters Janet, Kathy (Rick), Margaret (Gary), Susan (Bob), and her grandchildren Addison, Garrison (Allyssa), Carson, and Ava as well as her nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

A Vigil and Rosary will be held on March 15th at 7:00 PM at Gaffney Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday March 16th at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tacoma and memorial donations can be sent to Holy Cross Catholic Church with much appreciation.

View Full Obituary

Richard Donald Sundquist - March 12, 1930 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Don, a dear friend of Jesus, passed on to live in His loving presence March 4, 2022.  Born in Hoquiam to Victor and Tyra Sundquist, he accepted Christ at the age of eight. Don was a high school football and baseball athlete; he was a tackle and kicker and was named “the guy with the golden toe.”  He met Kathryn Robeck at Youth for Christ where they both sang. He served in the U.S. Army as a chaplain’s assistant in Korea, earned BA and MA degrees from Western Washington University and was a Tacoma teacher and choral director at Mt Tahoma High School.  He also directed several church choirs including First Presbyterian Church, Tacoma, Orpheus male chorus, taught voice privately and at Pacific Lutheran University, soloed at numerous events, and managed state wide and European traveling choirs, and worked as a funeral assistant at Gaffney Funeral Home in his retirement.  Fishing, hunting, skiing, and traveling with family were his favorite hobbies.

Don and Kathryn had two daughters Carol (Ron Hinkson and son Chase) and Julie (Brian Tefft and son Sam) who survive.  Also surviving are brother John, (Morley) several nieces and nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law Eunice and Carol, and many relatives in Finland and Sweden.  He was pre-deceased by older brother Paul.

Burial took place at Tahoma National Cemetery at March 30, 2022 and Memorial Service at Tacoma First Presbyterian Church April 9, 2022 at 1:00pm.  Memorial donations may be made to Youth for Christ at https://yfc.net or P.O. Box 834, Tacoma, WA 98401. More information at gaffneycares.com

View Full Obituary

Sharon Lea Simpson Newsom - February 17, 1944 - March 02, 2022

Departed: 03/02/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Sharon Lea Simpson Newsom died peacefully in her sleep on March 2, 2022, after a four-month battle with metastasized lung cancer. She was surrounded by family and went on her own terms - just as she lived her life. She will be remembered fondly as a fierce and big-hearted mama bear who looked after her family and friends with determination.

Sharon had a restless soul, with six passions in life: her family, her dogs, knitting, her students, travel, and real estate. She would light up a room with her smile and had the best shoulder to cry on. She will be dearly missed and she will always be warmly remembered. Her life was cut much too short, but she lived it fully and with grace. We, her family, share with you now the fullness of her time on Earth. We know she is watching down on us, shaking her head, and saying, that’s not how it went.

The oldest of three girls, Sharon was born to Norman and Minna Simpson in Seattle, Washington. A dutiful daughter, Sharon was obliged to contribute to the raising of her sisters early on. This early responsibility influenced the rest of her life, causing her to look after those under her care with an overwhelming level of dedication.

One of Sharon’s early loves was dance. She was a classically trained ballerina from an early age, and funded her own training by teaching children ballet while still in high school. Later she became a dance instructor for Fred Astaire Dance Studio.

Sharon graduated from Queen Anne High School, and went on to attend University of Washington. UW was not a great fit however, and she decided to take a break from school to see the world. She became a flight attendant for TWA and was based in New York City. Her typical routes included Spain, Italy, and Ireland. And the stories she told… She served first class and was known to be tactful while ensuring safety standards were met. After three years of this, she decided it was time to return home, finish her education, and get a real job.

So, she enrolled in Western Washington University and worked as a cocktail waitress. Unlike her freshman year, she was one determined, hardworking student with little playtime. First completing an undergraduate, and then a graduate degree in Speech and Language Pathology, she started her trajectory to her fourth (but not final) career. In between this time, she married and divorced her high school sweetheart Art Daughters.

After Western, Sharon moved to Vancouver, Canada to practice her lifelong passion of helping children to communicate effectively. Soon she was at another crossroads - to become a fully Canadian citizen, or to return to her roots. The pull to home was always strong for Sharon, and so she took a position with Bellevue Public Schools and once again lived on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle. It was during these days that Sharon came into her own and became the life of the party. She hosted many amusing soirees and made sure everyone had a great time.

As it sometimes happens, events merge to change one’s life forever. In her third year with Bellevue Public Schools, Sharon was dragged to a Friday happy hour by a colleague who needed a wingwoman. But like a plot twist in a rom-com, the colleague’s date (John Newsom) found Sharon to be much more to his liking. After the happy hour, a small group, including John and Sharon, headed off to a Chinese restaurant for dinner. This happy chance started a life long relationship.

Their first summer together cemented their love of entertaining, culminating in an afternoon party, “In Honor of the Empire” where friends and family gathered in her yard, dressed in formal attire. A croquet course was laid out and in an oh-so-refined manner, this motley group of likeminded misfits sipped gin & tonics and champagne, and competed fiercely for the NSFW (Not Suitable For Work) prizes. This was Classic Sharon at her best.

Sharon and John moved to Mount Baker Neighborhood, a place that created the perfect community for them to raise their children. First came Caitlin Jean MacLeod Newsom, a quiet girl they worried would be bowed over by the world. They soon learned how wrong they were! In her thirties she moved to Abu Dhabi, UAE, and followed the family tradition of traveling the world. Three years after Caitlin was born, Devon Scott Newsom came along. He is a kind hearted and gentle soul who overcame early struggles in school to become a successful software developer and teacher. The family was now complete.

“Social” Sharon faded into the background for a time, allowing “Mama Bear” Sharon to be born. No one would dare harass the cubs when Mama Bear entered the room. Her ferocity usually came out while defending all the people she loved even though she might not have been equally disposed to defend herself. Fairness, loyalty, dogged determination and courage were the virtues she embraced.

Sharon and John raised their children in equal partnership and ensured Caitlin and Devon would have the stability and closeness that was sometimes lacking in their own childhoods. Every spring and every Thanksgiving, they would pack up the car with kids, toys, and a dog, and go to the Sandpiper, an old beach resort on the Washington coast. Every summer, they would drive down to Sunriver, Oregon to ride bikes and enjoy the high mountain desert air.

In later years, Sharon and John would go beyond the northwest and head to Mazatlan, Mexico. It became a special place for them - a home away from home that would alleviate the Northwest winter drearies each February. At their resort, they were treated like family. Sharon would delight in acquiring new treasures from the beach vendors - having a blast using her negotiation skills to haggle for the best price. She and John would then spend the evenings enjoying the amazing food and beverages the town had on offer. It was truly a magical time for them. From time to time they were able to travel even farther afield. She attended her sister Marcia’s wedding on St. John to Randy Kiser, and then visited their island villa several times. She also made a pilgrimage to her ancestral home on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, and then to Paris, where she loved the cosmopolitan atmosphere, and was so glad to introduce John to the City of Light’s attractions. Meanwhile, as much as Sharon loved supporting her special education students, she found that she needed a break from the enormous stress of the profession. In 1989 she embarked on yet another career, as a Real Estate agent. She followed the path of her mother in this arena. Sharon found joy in finding people their dream homes, working tirelessly to know and understand their needs. This made her happy. In this career, she rose to the rank of Managing Broker at Gerrard, Beattie and Knapp, a boutique firm in Seattle. However, it bothered her to be away from her children during dinnertime and the weekends, and so alas, after a few years, she returned to the school district. When her children were out of college, however, back to real estate she went!

Sharon was also able to channel her love of real estate in other ways. In the 1990’s, she chaired the Mt. Baker Home Tour - which was an opportunity for the neighborhood to open their turn-of-the-century homes to the public. She and John renovated two craftsman homes, the second of which is where they raised their children. To this day, the smell of paint reminds her daughter of home. Sharon was proudly able to help support both her children in finding and acquiring their own homes. Knowing she was able to help her children find security in this way was one of her great accomplishments.

Sharon had a love of beauty. Her creative outlets included her garden and her knitting. She found peace in these quiet realms. Her gardens had a distinctly English theme with an abundance of flowering perennials deftly arranged by color, height, and blooming schedule. She was equally fastidious with her knitting, improving over time and becoming a perfectionist in this craft. She mostly knit for other people and she chose each design and yarn type carefully with the recipient in mind. Even when her hands were swollen and in pain from arthritis, she would continue knitting for those she loved.

Driving on the other hand, was not such an accomplishment. To drive with Sharon was to know fear. A college-era car crash led to a lifetime of anxiety in moving vehicles, which sometimes expressed itself as rage. Driving the wrong way down a one-way street? Obviously it was the other person’s fault, and Sharon had no qualms to blame the behavior on the audacity of “Gen Xers”.

Sharon grew up with a West Highland White Terrier. It was the only breed of dog she would ever own and throughout her life, she owned many. Her love affair with Westies culminated in her purchasing two show quality pups, showing them in AKC sponsored shows until they became champions, and then breeding the two to help create a healthier, happier Westie line. Her small kennel Kyleakin was born. Those who know Westies know they can be difficult and stubborn (not unlike Sharon herself). Sharon would not hesitate in denying potential puppy parents a dog if they were not up to her stringent standards.

The final joy came into Sharon’s life when a grandson, Dax, was born to Devon and Becca in May of 2020. He brought to her a completeness that swelled her heart. It is with profound sadness that she will not be able to watch him grow up down the street from her. But the time they had together was everything.

View Full Obituary

Herbert LeRoy Hiegel Sr. - May 20, 1918 - March 01, 2022

Departed: 03/01/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Herb was born in 1918 during ‘The Great War’ in Dawn, Ohio to Theresa (LeMoine) and William Hiegel. Herb spent his early years helping in his father’s grain elevator business.

When Herb’s mother contracted Tuberculosis, the family moved to Tucson, Arizona. His time in the Southwest had the greatest impact on Herb’s formative years. The family suffered through the ‘Great Depression’, losing their home to the bank and another one to fire. Within this same timeframe Herb lost his mother to Tuberculosis.

Homeless, Herb’s father constructed a temporary home from abandoned materials scrounged from the dessert and salvaged wood from a chicken coop. Herb helped his father and brother build ‘The Rock House’ which is still standing. To supplement the family’s income, Herb served in the Civilian Conservation Corps building roads.

A new graduate of Tucson Senior High School, Herb married the love of his life, Betty Jane Heller in 1939. Soon after, Herb became an apprentice in the ‘sheet metal’ trade which would become his lifelong work.

In 1943, Herb moved his family of four to Van Nuys, California to bring relief to Betty’s asthma symptoms. In 1947 the family, now of six, moved near Tacoma, Washington to live on Herb’s in-laws’ farm.

Herb went to work at Ace Furnace and Steel where he worked for over 21 years. His projects included roofs, restaurants, fire doors, maritime vessels, support on the Alaska Pipeline, and the ASARCO smelter stack.

His work at Nalley’s Fine Foods is Herb’s most enduring work legacy. Here, Herb became so respected for his skills and work ethic that the plant manager requested him personally for sheet metal work. His ingenuity moved Herb beyond fabrication and installment to product design.

Herb continued to live in the family’s small house in Tacoma after his wife Betty died in 1996. He was an avid inventor, tinkerer, woodworker, and gardener up until the last year of his life.

Herb was a dedicated Christian and was a faithful member of Hope Evangelical Community Church in Tacoma, as his health permitted.

Herb is survived by his devoted children Bonnie, Herb Jr., Larry, and Bob as well as many, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and a great, great granddaughter.

Herb passed away peacefully in his bed at home, holding the hand of a family member. His last words were “God, I need You”.

View Full Obituary

Ronald Edward Thompson - May 24, 1931 - February 27, 2022

Departed: 02/27/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Ronald E. Thompson, beloved husband, cherished father and grandfather, died on Sunday, February 27, at age 90. He met his wife Marilyn on a blind date and it was love at first sight; she was the love of his life for 64 years. Ron was preceded in death by his parents Rex and Clara, and his identical twin brother Don. He is survived by Marilyn, his wife of 64 years, and by his son Jeff Thompson and daughters Karen Gordon, Susan Price, Nancy Woodworth, Sally Gant and Claire Manke; grandchildren Emily, Ellen, David, Jordan, Garrett, Broc, Derek, Pete, Sean, Ron, Annette, Mark, Jane, Brett and RJ; and great-grandchildren Tora, Zoe, Alden, Brady and Lily.

Ron was born in Bremerton, WA, and attended South Kitsap High School. He graduated from the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business in 1953 and the UW School of Law in 1958. He was a veteran of the Korean War and continued to serve in the US Army Reserve until his retirement as a colonel in 1988.

Ron took great pleasure in a long career as a lawyer. He helped to establish access to legal services for people in need. In addition, he devoted himself to several Tacoma focused organizations, including the Municipal League, Tacoma Sister City Program with Japan, Optimist Club, Pierce County Economic Development Board and Tacoma Rescue Mission.

A life-long love of movies was a passion tracing back to his parents, owners of several theaters in the Bremerton/Port Orchard area. He especially enjoyed piling his six pajama-clad kids into the family’s station wagon and taking them to the drive-in.

His favorite moments were with his family— travelling, hiking and camping— and Sundays with his son Jeff.  A member of the Gig Harbor Golf and Country Club, Ron teed off every Wednesday with a group of good friends. Please celebrate Ron by going on a walk in the woods to enjoy nature as he did. Donations can be made to the Emergency Food Network, https://efoodnet.org/donate/

Funeral services will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1123 North J Street, Tacoma, WA 98403 on Friday, March 25 at 11:00 am. A reception will be held immediately following at the church. Live streaming courtesy of St. Patrick's Church can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Kbjm8TEJTek

View Full Obituary

John Andrea Petrovich - July 08, 1934 - February 25, 2022

Departed: 02/25/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness…” -2 Timothy 4:7

John Andrea Petrovich valued nothing in life more than his family, his faith, his craft, and his word. John was born to his parents Michael and Verna Petrovich on July 8, 1934 in Ronald,  Washington. He graduated from Bellarmine Preparatory School in Tacoma in 1953.

Before enlisting in the Army, he met the love of his life Carol Ann, his partner in everything for 65 years. He could be heard saying daily, “ I loved her from the day I met her. We never stopped holding hands.” John held immense pride in being a hard worker in everything that he did, from working at Atlas Foundry to starting and running Petrovich Construction. He had a knack for business and was a natural entrepreneur, reveling in many business ventures well into his retirement.

He left a legacy by sharing his talents and handiwork with an immeasurable number of neighbors, friends and family. He found joy in staying fit and active, building friendships with those that he met on the golf course or in the gym. If you had an ear to listen, John would be quick to chat the day away, a relationship forged even in the simplest of moments, and one he would not forget. One of John’s favorite things was visitors who would just drop by. The old-fashioned value of an open and welcoming home. No appointment needed.

He is preceded in death by his parents Michael and Verna, siblings; Michael, Dorothy, Patricia, David and an infant son. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carol, son David (wife Karen), daughter Cheryl (husband Jim), granddaughter Jennifer (husband Michael), grandson Greg (wife Jaime), his 3 treasured great grandsons Jaxon, Keaton and Tucker, sister-in-law Diane and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be held at St. Charles Borromeo in Tacoma on Friday March 25th at 11:00 AM, with reception to follow in the church hall.

View Full Obituary

James Joseph Harrison - July 24, 1933 - February 21, 2022

Departed: 02/21/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Jim Harrison 88, was born to James (Jay) and Katherine (Kay) Harrison in Tacoma, WA.

He graduated from Bellarmine HS. Served in the US Army, and got his Masters degree from the University of Washington. He was one of the original computer programmers for Weyerhauser, and retired from Boeing as an engineer.  He loved his family, hiking, bike riding and, walking the dog around the neighborhood.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Dorothy Harrison, Brother Richard (Dick) Harrison, son-in-law Michael Patten, and grandson Michael Moore. He is survived by his three daughters, Patty Patten, Colleen Bartz and, Donna Perryman, son-in-law Fred Perryman, his brother Mike Harrison, 7 grand kids and 6 great grand kids.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Gaffney Funeral Home, Saturday, March 5th at 2pm.

View Full Obituary

Sr. Marilyn MacDonagh, OP (Mary Therese) - June 27, 1936 - February 20, 2022

Departed: 02/20/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Sister Marilyn MacDonagh, OP (Mary Therese) died peacefully at St. Joseph Residence, Seattle on February 20,2022. Sister Marilyn, a Seattle native, was a Tacoma Dominican for 66 years; 50 of those years were spent teaching at St. Patrick School in Tacoma.

She was born June 27, 1936, and lived in West Seattle, attending Holy Rosary Grade and High School, until she entered the Tacoma Dominicans in 1955. Sister Marilyn made her final profession in 1961 and celebrated her 60th anniversary of profession in 2006. She attended St. Martin’s College in Olympia and Seattle University.

Sister Marilyn taught at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bakersfield, CA; St. Paul’s, Yakima; Lourdes Academy, Ellensburg; Assumption, Bellingham; and in Seattle at Mt. Virgin, Holy Rosary, and Assumption. She began her 50-year tenure at St. Patrick’s in Tacoma in 1967.

Her great passions were teaching and writing.  At St. Patrick’s, she taught in the primary grades. In addition to the basics, Sister Marilyn loved fostering the faith development of her young students.  She also enjoyed writing and would write poems for her students.  This culminated in a book of her poetry being published in 2016. Celebrating Catholic Education at a PACE Fundraising Dinner in 1977, Sister Marilyn was honored for her contributions to Catholic education.  She was introduced with the following words: “Through all the ensuing years, Sister has been the epitome of dedication and service to the children entrusted to her care and their parents.  One of her greatest delights is preparing her young charges for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist…. Quiet and humbly, Sister lives out her Dominican vocation of “giving to others the fruits of her contemplation.” Expertise in teaching, dedication, loyalty, an unwavering stance of justice and service, and a deep, abiding love for her faith all characterize this year’s recipient of St. Patrick School’s Service Award” After retiring from teaching in 2016, Sister Marilyn moved to St. Joseph Residence in Seattle in 2018

She is predeceased by her parents Norman MacDonagh and Mary Margaret Wren MacDonagh. She is survived by her sister Janice Westfall.

A celebration of her life will be on Thursday, March 10, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Church in Tacoma. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Tacoma.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dominican Sisters Retirement Fund, 935 Fawcett Ave. Tacoma, WA 98402. More information can be found by going to www.gaffneycares.com.

View Full Obituary

Marianne Virginia LeSueur - July 30, 1939 - February 20, 2022

Departed: 02/20/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Marianne Virginia LeSueur.

View Full Obituary

Stephen Willer - November 03, 1949 - February 17, 2022

Departed: 02/17/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Stephen Willer died unexpectedly February 17, 2022 in Gig Harbor, WA surrounded his wife and kids. He is survived by his wife of almost 52 years, Kimberlee, his children, Karen Willer and Jasen Willer, his brother Phil Willer, 8 nieces & nephews, 8 great nieces and nephews with two more on the way, and an adopted daughter and grand-daughter. He is also survived by a great deal of friends that he considered family,especially his lifetime friend of 62 years Cub. He is preceded in death by his parents Hugh and Lucille Willer of Pleasanton, CA.

Steve worked for Chevron for 34 years in both Southern CA and Northern CA, eventually retiring in Dublin, CA at the age of 49. After retirement he traveled to the UK and Europe, and took up woodworking; designing many pieces of furniture for the home and family. He also enjoyed playing golf, working in the backyard he designed himself, and taking car of his new toy, his 1993 Chevrolet Corvette.  Anyone who knew Steve, knew of his deep and abiding love for Kim, Karen and Jasen.

Steve chose to give the gift of life by, donating his corneas for transplant, his skin for burn victims, and other organs for medical research.

View Full Obituary

Fr. George Orville Rink - June 19, 1931 - February 13, 2022

Departed: 02/13/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Fr. George O. Rink died peacefully at home on Sunday, February 13, 2022. Fr. George was born in Tacoma on June 19, 1931 to Frank and Lena Rink. He was one of five children; Agnes (Grassi), Teresa (Johnson), Leo, and a twin brother named Gerald or “Doc”. The family spent their early years living very close to St. Patrick Parish in Tacoma, where they were very involved. At age 14, with the support of his family, Fr. George decided to attend St. Edward Seminary in Kenmore.

He was ordained on May 18, 1957 at St. James Cathedral by Archbishop Thomas Connolly. His first assignment was as Curate of St. Matthew Parish in Seattle followed by the same role from 1964 to 1969 at St. Joseph Parish in Vancouver. In June of 1969, he was appointed assistant of Sacred Heart Parish in Enumclaw, under long time (36 years) and aging pastor, Monsignor Farrelly. After Monsignor Farrelly died in 1970, Fr. George became pastor and led the parish community through this loss of their much-beloved pastor to the building of a new parish plant including the church, faith formation center and rectory on the property that Monsignor Farrelly had purchased many years before.

In 1976, he was appointed pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Tacoma, returning to his hometown for the first time as a priest. After more than two terms there, and helping the parish grow in size, he was assigned as pastor of St. Madeleine Sophie Parish in Bellevue in 1990, until his retirement in 1997. As a senior priest, he helped in Sumner, Orting and surrounding parishes.

Fr. George enjoyed spending time with his family who all lived in the Tacoma area, and he always loved a good game of cribbage. He also visited the golf course religiously every Tuesday and enjoyed watching golf and other sporting events in his free time. Fr. George had a gift of being able to relate to people from all walks of life. He very much enjoyed presiding at regional youth Masses, training lay staff and volunteers and the Knights of Columbus, of which he was one since 1965. His sermons connected with so many on a personal level. His friendly personality and quick wit led to countless relationships over the years, and he helped so many improve their relationship with God and the Lord Jesus.

Fr. George is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss his humor, welcoming smile, and his pure joy and love of life.

Viewing available at Gaffney Funeral Home from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Wed. Feb 23rd followed by a Vigil service at St. Charles Borromeo Parish at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thu. Feb 24th at 10:30 a.m. also at St. Charles.

View Full Obituary

Alfredo Tagumpay Templo - October 11, 1949 - February 11, 2022

Departed: 02/11/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: Alfredo “Kuya Fred” Tagumpay Templo died peacefully on Friday, February 11, 2022 at the age of 72 in Tacoma, Washington USA . He was born in Tagas, Tangalan, Aklan, Philippines on October 11th, 1949 to parents Arnulfo Templo and Guadalupe Tagumpay. He was the 2nd of two brothers and seven sisters. He immigrated to the United States in November of 1992 to California and acquired work at Coachella Citrus Grove where he was a fruit harvester for several years with his father and brother before moving to Washington State where he worked for Ostrom Mushroom Farm in Olympia as well as Pederson Fryer Farm and then as a facility worker at Muckleshoot Casino in Auburn, WA.

He bought his own home in Tillicum, WA where he lived with his father and sister and enjoyed spending most of his time there with his family especially his nieces and nephews. To them he was known as “Tito and Papa Pids”  - The rich and generous uncle as he spoiled them all, including those in the Philippines, any time he had a chance.  To Nida Templo his only sister left in the Philippines he is their hero as he supported her and her children financially for years. Kuya Fred is also known for his generosity not only with his relatives but also to other people in his hometown who asks for his help.

He went back for vacation in the Philippines in the year 2011 and 2013. He enjoyed listening to music, watching sports especially golf, and watching shows and news on The Filipino Channel. He had several pets whom he enjoyed spending time with - a cat named Jamie and a dog named Scarlett.

Kuya Fred will be greatly missed by his sisters, brother, nieces, and nephews who are close to him including his great niece “Nina” in the Philippines whom he already spoiled although they have not met yet in person. To Kuya Fred, thank you for being you. We are grateful to God for our time together and for creating you. Until we meet again in the heart of Jesus.

Holy Mass will be celebrated at Visitation Church followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery. For more details contact his sister Judy Rose.

View Full Obituary

Claude Worn Bailey - April 06, 1933 - February 10, 2022

Departed: 02/10/2022 (Tacoma)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Claude Worn Bailey.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Personalized Funeral Services

Gaffney Funeral Home recognizes that every individual is unique, and therefore, every funeral service should be tailored to reflect the personality, interests, and spirit of the deceased. The funeral home offers a range of services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorial services, and celebrations of life. Their experienced staff will work closely with families to create a personalized tribute that honors their loved one's memory and provides comfort to those who are grieving.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Gaffney Funeral Home are designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The funeral home features spacious chapels, comfortable visitation rooms, and ample parking. In addition, they offer a range of amenities, including audio-visual equipment, catering services, and online obituaries, to ensure that every detail is taken care of.

Pre-Planning Services

Gaffney Funeral Home understands that pre-planning a funeral can be a thoughtful and responsible decision for individuals who want to ensure that their final wishes are respected. The funeral home offers pre-planning services that allow individuals to make informed decisions about their funeral arrangements in advance. This can help alleviate the emotional burden on loved ones and ensure that personal preferences are honored.

Cremation Services

Gaffney Funeral Home offers cremation services that are designed to provide families with a dignified and respectful way to say goodbye to their loved ones. Their experienced staff will guide families through the cremation process, from selecting an urn to choosing a final resting place. They also offer a range of cremation options, including direct cremation, cremation with memorial service, and cremation with traditional funeral service.

Community Involvement

Gaffney Funeral Home is committed to giving back to the Tacoma community through various outreach programs and charitable initiatives. They believe that building strong relationships with local organizations and businesses is essential to providing exceptional service to families in need. By supporting local charities and participating in community events, Gaffney Funeral Home demonstrates its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.

Contacting Gaffney Funeral Home

If you're in need of funeral services or would like to learn more about Gaffney Funeral Home, please don't hesitate to contact them. Their caring staff is available 24/7 to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer support during difficult times. You can reach them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or by visiting their website at [website URL].

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including biographical information, details about their life, and information about the funeral or memorial services. It serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with family, friends, and community.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries play a significant role in honoring the deceased, providing closure for those who are grieving, and serving as a historical record of the person's life. They also give family and friends an opportunity to pay tribute to their loved one and share memories.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family members or close relatives of the deceased write the obituary. However, it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary before passing away.

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, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about the funeral or memorial services, charitable donations, and other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and personal preference. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. Online obituaries often have more flexibility in terms of length and content.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful to readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper through their website, email, or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be sure to check their guidelines for submission deadlines, word count, and formatting requirements.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries while they're still alive. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides a fuller picture of the person's life.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a wonderful way to celebrate the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to keep it respectful and appropriate for the audience.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or complex family dynamics involved, it's essential to approach the writing process with care and sensitivity. Consider consulting with other family members or a professional writer for guidance.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can add depth and personality to the obituary. Just be sure to verify copyright permissions if necessary.

What is the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost varies depending on the publication and length of the obituary. Some newspapers offer free or low-cost options for online publication, while others may charge per line or word count.

How do I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

Double-check facts such as dates, names, and spellings to avoid errors. It's also a good idea to have multiple people review the draft before submitting it for publication.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to publish an obituary without printing it in a physical newspaper. This can be a cost-effective option that still allows you to share the news with a wide audience.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The publication timeline varies depending on the newspaper's schedule and deadlines. Online obituaries are often published immediately or within a few hours of submission.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, corrections or changes can be made if there are errors or inaccuracies. However, this may depend on the publication's policies and deadlines.

What is the purpose of an online guestbook?

An online guestbook allows friends and family to leave condolences, share memories, and pay tribute to the deceased. It provides a virtual space for people to come together and support each other during a difficult time.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers, genealogy websites, or libraries that maintain historical records. Many online platforms also offer searchable databases of past obituaries.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing news of a loved one's passing and connecting with others who want to pay their respects.

What is the etiquette for responding to condolences online?

A simple "thank you" or acknowledgement is sufficient when responding to online condolences. You may also choose to respond privately or publicly depending on your preference.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

You can save a copy of the obituary as a PDF or screenshot, or print it out for safekeeping. Some online platforms also offer permanent archiving options for preserving the tribute over time.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes! Including information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause they cared about.

What is the role of an obituary in the grieving process?

An obituary serves as a tangible representation of the person who has passed away, providing comfort and closure for those who are grieving. It also helps to acknowledge the loss and begin the healing process.

How do I cope with writing an obituary during a difficult time?

Taking your time, seeking support from loved ones, and focusing on celebrating the person's life rather than mourning their loss can help make the process less overwhelming. Remember that it's okay to ask for help if needed.