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Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. Obituaries

Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. Obituaries

About Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc.

Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. is a family-owned and operated funeral home located in the heart of Washington, D.C. With a rich history dating back to 1934, this esteemed establishment has been providing compassionate and professional funeral services to the community for over 85 years. The funeral home is situated at 4925 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, Washington, DC, 20019, making it easily accessible to families from all walks of life.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded by Henry S. Washington, the funeral home has remained committed to its core values of dignity, respect, and compassion. Over the years, the business has grown and evolved, but its dedication to serving families with excellence has never wavered. Today, Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. is one of the most respected and trusted funeral homes in the region, known for its attention to detail and personalized approach to funeral planning.

Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc.

Address: 4925 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, Washington, DC, 20019
Phone Number: 1-202-398-6700
Get Direction: Google Maps Link

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Hilda Mae McDougald - March 31, 1920 - March 29, 2022

Departed: 03/29/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Hilda Mae McDougald (age 101) Sunrise: March 31, 1920 ~ Sunset: March 29, 2022
Entered into Eternal Rest on Tuesday, March 29, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank J. McDougald, Sr. and daughter, Susie Tompkins. She leaves to cherish her loving memory, two children, Frank J. McDougald, Jr. (D’Ana) and Cynthia Robinson (Warren); three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two great great-grandchildren; one brother, Gerald Batiste; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a .m., on Tuesday, April 12 at St. Luke Catholic Church, 4925 East Capitol Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Services By HENRY S. WASHINGTON & SONS. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Albertha Lloyd Marshall - January 05, 1931 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Albertha Lloyd Marshall (age 91) Sunrise: January 5, 1931 ~ Sunset: March 24, 2022
Albertha L. Marshall peacefully transitioned into Eternal Rest on Thursday, March 24, 2022. She is survived by a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. until Celebrations of Life Service at 11:00 a.m.,5 at  Salvation Outreach & Deliverance Ministries, 4598 Beech Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748. Interment National Harmony Memorial Park. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Leroy Brown, Jr. - February 05, 1964 - March 17, 2022

Departed: 03/17/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: LEOROY BROWN, JR. Sunrise: February 5, 1964 ~ Sunset: March 17, 2022
Leroy Brown JR., entered into Eternal Rest on Thursday, March 17, 2022. He is survived by a host of loving relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, March 24 at St. Lucille AME Zion Church, 5100 Astor Pl. SE, Washington D.C., 20019. Interment will be held at 1 :00 p.m., on Monday, March 28 at Onslow Memorial Park in Jacksonville, N.C. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Lawrence Elwood Perry - November 26, 1929 - March 13, 2022

Departed: 03/13/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: LAWRENCE E. PERRY Sunrise: November 26, 1929 – Sunset: March 13, 2022 (92)
Entered into Eternal Rest On Sunday, March 13, 2022.  He is survived by his devoted wife, Dorothy Perry.  He was predeceased by his first wife, Geraldine; infant son, Raymond and son, Joseph “Okwambe”; sister-in-law, Patricia Ann and niece, Eugenia, both whom he raised; and stepdaughter, Jackie. He was a devoted family man of which the memories of him will be cherished by his children: Brian, Kathleen, Elicia (Marvin), Kevin, Karen, and Willie; two stepdaughters, Elaine and Tameka; the eighteen,  grandchildren and fifteen, great-grandchildren, he loved. Also left to cherish his memory is his last living and faithful brother, James Perry (Pat) and a host of loving relative and friends. Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 2, from 10 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., at Church of the Incarnation, 880 Eastern Ave., N.E.  Interment at a later date. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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William Thomas - December 16, 1939 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: William Thomas Sunrise: December 16, 1939 - Sunset: March 4, 2022 Memorial Service  Date:  Saturday, March 19, 2022 Time:  2:00 p.m. Place:  St. Paul Baptist Church 6419 Marlboro Pike, District Heights MD 20747 (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Ann G. Datcher - November 12, 1932 - March 03, 2022

Departed: 03/03/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Ann G. Datcher Sunrise: November 12, 1932 ~ March 3, 2022 Visitation - 10:00 a.m. Celebration of Life Service - 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 14, 2022 The Cathedral of Christ 5354 Sheriff Road Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Interment: Fort Lincoln Cemetery
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Janice M. Hawkins - October 20, 1959 - February 25, 2022

Departed: 02/25/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Janice Marie Hawkins Sunrise:  October 20, 1959  -  Sunset:  February 25, 2022 Janice Marie Hawkins transitioned into Eternal Rest on Friday, February 25, 2022.  She is survived by her devoted and loving sister, Agnes Hawkins, three brothers, James, John and William Hawkins, godsons, Benjamin Gates and Kristopher Joiner and a host of other relatives and friends.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Ms. Hawkins' Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, March 11, 2022, at Ward Memorial A.M.E. Church, 241 42nd Street, North East, Washington, DC 20019.  Interment Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.   Streaming information:  The service can be viewed on Ward's regular sites. YouTube Facebook http://www.wardame.org/ Ward's APP (found on IOS and the Google Store) (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Tyrone Daily Herring, Sr. - January 15, 1964 - February 23, 2022

Departed: 02/23/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Tyrone Daily Herring, Sr. Sunrise: January 15, 1964 ~ Sunset: February 23, 2022 Tyrone D. Herring, Sr., entered into Eternal Rest on Wednesday, February 23, 2022. He is survived by a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, March 9, at Kettering Baptist Church, 6909 Robert S Crain Hwy. Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. Interment National Harmony Memorial Park.
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Andrew Ezekiel Holley - December 13, 1937 - January 29, 2022

Departed: 01/29/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Andrew Ezekiel Holley, Sr. Sunrise: December 13, 1937 ~ Sunset: January 29, 2022
Andrew Ezekiel Holley, Sr., entered into Eternal Rest on Saturday, January 29, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Holley; six children, Andrew Holley Jr., Kendall Holley, Keith Holley, Kevin Holley, Tia-Joyce Holley-Wheeler, and Steven Holley; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 16 at Contee A.M.E. Zion Church, 903 Division Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20019. Interment Quantico National Cemetery. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Mattie Ruth Nichols - February 16, 1929 - January 25, 2022

Departed: 01/25/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Mattie Ruth Nichols Sunrise: February 16, 1929 ~ Sunset: January 25, 2022.
Mattie Ruth Nichols transitioned into Eternal Rest on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. She is survived by a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 12 at Antioch Baptist Church, 1105 -50th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019. Interment at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 16 at Quantico National Cemetery. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Helen Harper - March 19, 1945 - January 20, 2022

Departed: 01/20/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Helen Harper Sunrise: March 19, 1945 ~ Sunset: January 20, 2022
Helen Harper entered into Eternal Rest on Thursday, January 20, 2022. She is Survived by a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until time of Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, February 8 at Not About Me Ministries, 3106 Branch Avenue, Temple Hills, MD 20748. Interment Private. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Joseph Leonard Young, Jr. - April 11, 1926 - January 11, 2022

Departed: 01/11/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Joseph Leonard Young, Jr. Sunrise: April 11, 1926 Sunset: January 11, 2022 Visitation: 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 18, 2022 at Church of the Incarnation  880 Eastern Ave., NE Washington, DC 20019 Interment: National Harmony Memorial Park (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Timothy Jerome Glover - May 21, 1963 - January 06, 2022

Departed: 01/06/2022 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: TIMOTHY JEROME GLOVER Sunrise: May 21, 1963 Sunset: January 6, 2022
Timothy J. Glover, entered into Eternal Rest on Thursday, January 6, 2022. He is survived by his five children; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, January 20, at St. Luke Catholic Church, 4925 East Capitol Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019. Interment will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, January 24, at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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JoAnna Morse - July 16, 1972 - December 27, 2021

Departed: 12/27/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: JoAnna Morse (age 49)
JoAnna Morse transitioned into Eternal Rest on Monday, December 27, 2021. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her father, Phillip; brother, Shawn (Niko); sister, Sharon; seven nephews; five nieces; goddaughter, Zipporah; godson, C.J.; two aunts, Florence and Catherine Morse; two uncles, Franklin and Morris Morse; best friends, Daphne Walker, Kim Brooks and LaTonya Robinson; a host of cousins, friends, coworkers and last but definitely not least, her church family.
Visitation weld be held from 9:30 a.m., until Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at Salvation Outreach and Deliverance Ministries, 4598 Beech Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748.
Interment Backwater Cemetery, Tillman, SC on Saturday, January 15, 2022.
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Herbert Gibson - May 28, 1929 - December 21, 2021

Departed: 12/21/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Herbert Gibson (92) May 28, 1929 - December 21, 2021 entered into his Eternal Rest with his Savior on Tuesday evening, December 21, 2021.
He was the ninth of ten children born to James Turner and Laura Tatum Gibson of Washington, DC on May 28, 1929. He was educated at Phelps Trade School in Washington and he spent all of his career as a self employed contractor in the DC area. He was the president and owner of Gibson Builders until his health declined. He had a deep love for travel, fishing, swimming, and spending time with family. He also enjoyed giving advice on building and assisting with building projects.
Herbert was a quiet man with much wisdom, and always rejoiced when others succeeded. Loved by many, and respected by all for his heart to help those who were in need of him. In his later years, while a resident of Henson Creek Assisted Living Facility in Temple Hills, MD, he was one of the popular residents at the facility that everyone enjoyed seeing and talking with each day. Loved by their staff and even visitors, who often asked about "Mr. Gibson." He was loving fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, even though he wore Washington Redskins gear.
Herbert was formerly married to Joyce Bullock Gibson, and to this union five sons were born: Philip Anthony (Janice); Herbert Bernard (Renee'); David Aaron; Mark Thomas (Margo); and Paul Elliot.  He was predeceased by one son, Paul Elliot, four brothers Clinton, Raymond, James, Jr., Preston. Sisters: Edith, Addie, Nora; Artus Mae. He leave to cherish his memory his sister Bernice G. Kelly (Harry), a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren and friends.
Special Thanks to the outstanding staff of Henson Creek Assisted Living Facility of Temple Hills, MD. We are so thankful for the work and love they showed him during his time there. To Seasons Hospice Care for their loving care, and to everyone that prayed for and showed him love.
Visitation will be held from 12noon until Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m., on Wednesday, December 29 at Bethesda New Life Gospel Church, 750 Kenilworth Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20019. Eulogist: Rev. Jesse Richardson, Pastor Bethesda New Life Gospel Church COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines are being followed. Interment Private.
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Henry Thomas Smith - December 14, 1934 - December 19, 2021

Departed: 12/19/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Henry Thomas Smith age (age 87)   Entered into Eternal Rest on Sunday, December 19, 2021. He is survived by a host of loving relatives and friends. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2022 from 10:00 a.m., until Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., at Not About Me Ministries, 3106 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, Md 20748. Interment National Harmony Memorial Park. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Shirley Mae Norris - October 04, 1940 - December 10, 2021

Departed: 12/10/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: SHIRLEY MAE NORRIS (age 81) October 4, 1940 ~ December 10, 2021
Shirley Mae Norris peacefully transitioned into Eternal Rest on Friday, December 10, 2021. She is survived by a host of loving relatives and friends. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, from 11:30 a.m., to 12:30 p.m., at Henry S. Washington & Sons Funeral Home, 4927 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave., NE, Washington, DC, 20019. Interment Cheltenham- Maryland Veterans Cemetery. (DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.)
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Linda S. Jackson - August 05, 1951 - November 26, 2021

Departed: 11/26/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: LINDA S. JACKSON (age 70)
Linda S. Jackson entered into Eternal Rest on Friday, November 26, 2021. She leaves to cherish her loving memory a host of relatives and friends. Family Visiting Hour will be held from 11:00 a.m., until time of Funeral Service at 12 noon, on Saturday, December 4 at Not About Me Ministries, 3106 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD 20748. interment National Harmony Memorial Park. Live Streaming Link: https://livestream.com/namm/ljackson
DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.
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Marilyn C. Johnson - December 26, 1949 - November 24, 2021

Departed: 11/24/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Marilyn C. Johnson  December 26, 1949 ~ November 24, 2021 Wednesday, December 8, 2021 Visitation ~ 10am PRIVATE Service ~ 11am  Zion Church  8829 Greenbelt Road Greenbelt, MD 20770 Interment: Lincoln Memorial Cemetery
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Ronnie Eugene Sutton - June 22, 1954 - November 22, 2021

Departed: 11/22/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: RONNIE EUGENE SUTTON (age 67)
Ronnie Eugene Sutton entered into Eternal Rest on Monday, November 22, 2021. He leaves to cherish his loving memory, his wife, Addie M. Sutton; a host of other relatives and friends, VISITATION ONLY will be held from 11:00 a.m., to 1:00 p.m., on Tuesday, November 30 at Salvation, Outreach & Deliverance Ministries, 4598 Beech Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748. Interment Washington National Cemetery.
DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.
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Shirley Elizabeth Gross - April 24, 1937 - November 22, 2021

Departed: 11/22/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: SHIRLEY ELIZABETH GROSS (age 84)
Shirley E. Gross,  entered into Eternal Rest on Monday, November 22, 2021. She leaves to cherish her loving memory a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m., until time of Funeral Service at 12 noon on Monday, December 6 at St. Paul Baptist Church, 6419 Marlboro Pike, District Heights, MD 20747.  Interment National Harmony Memorial Park.
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Shirley Elizabeth Gross - April 24, 1937 - November 22, 2021

Departed: 11/22/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Shirley Elizabeth Gross April 24, 1937 ~ November 22, 2021 Visitation 11:00 a.m. Service 12 noon St. Paul Church  6419 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 Interment: National Harmony Memorial Park
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Samuel Gaillard, Sr. - October 16, 1933 - November 18, 2021

Departed: 11/18/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: SAMUEL GAILLARD, Sr., (age 88)
Samuel Gaillard, Sr., entered into Eternal Rest on Thursday, November 18, 2021. He leaves to cherish his loving memory, his wife, Frances H. Gaillard; a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until time of Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, December 4 at Greater Mt. Nebo A.M.E. Church, 1001 Old Mitchellville Road, Bowie, MD 20716. Interment Resurrection Cemetery.
DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.
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Anthony C. Williams - March 02, 1957 - November 07, 2021

Departed: 11/07/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Anthony C. Williams (age 64) March 2, 1957 ~ November 7, 2021
Entered into Eternal Rest on Sunday, November 7, 2021. He is survived by a host of loving family members and friends. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m., until Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, November 19 at Church of the Incarnation, 880 Eastern Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20019. Interment Private. Services by Henry S. Washington & Sons.
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Jacqueline Marie Pierce - January 19, 1952 - October 30, 2021

Departed: 10/30/2021 (Washington)
Obituary Preview: Jacqueline Marie Pierce (age 69) January 19, 1952 ~ October 30, 2021
Jacqueline M. Pierce transitioned into Eternal Rest on Saturday, October 30, 2021. She is survived by her loving husband, George W. Pierce, III; two daughters, Trickel and LaChelle; five grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., until Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, November 12 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 12010 Woodmore Road, Mitchellville, MD 20721. Interment National Harmony Memorial Park. DUE TO COVID-19, FACIAL MASKS OR COVERINGS AND 6-FEET SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED.
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Funeral Services Offered

Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. provides a comprehensive range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funerals and memorial services to cremations and celebrations of life, their experienced team will guide you every step of the way. They understand that every individual is unique, and they strive to create personalized tributes that honor the life and legacy of your loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are modern, comfortable, and spacious, providing ample parking and easy accessibility for all visitors. The chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while smaller rooms are available for more intimate services. Additionally, they offer a variety of amenities, including a selection of caskets, urns, and burial vaults, as well as on-site preparation facilities and a fleet of vehicles for transportation.

Pre-Planning Services

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Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. recognizes the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements. By taking care of these details ahead of time, you can ensure that your wishes are respected and alleviate some of the burden from your loved ones during a difficult time. Their knowledgeable staff will work with you to create a customized plan that suits your needs and budget.

Community Involvement

Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. is deeply rooted in the local community and is committed to giving back through various initiatives and partnerships. They regularly participate in charity events, sponsor local organizations, and provide educational resources to help families navigate the grieving process.

Staff Profiles

The team at Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about serving families with compassion and integrity. From licensed funeral directors to support staff, each member is trained to provide exceptional care and guidance throughout the funeral planning process.

Contact Information

If you're seeking more information about Henry S. Washington & Sons Co., Inc. or would like to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced funeral directors, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone at (insert phone number), email at (insert email), or visit their website at (insert website URL). Their office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours available by appointment.

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 serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with family, friends, and community.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries are important because they provide a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also informing others of their passing. They can also serve as a keepsake for family and friends, and can be used to share memories and stories about the person who has passed away.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary, but it's often preferred that it comes from someone who knew the person well.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), hobbies, interests, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral services, memorial donations, or other ways to pay tribute to the deceased.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform where it will be published. Generally, it's best to keep it concise and focused on the most important details about the person's life. Aim for 1-2 paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

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

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 the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Check their website or contact them directly for specific guidelines and deadlines. Be prepared to provide the written obituary text and any accompanying photos or other materials.

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 be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and accomplishments, and ensures that your story is told in your own words.

What if I don't have much information about my loved one's life?

If you're struggling to gather information about your loved one's life, try reaching out to other family members or friends who may have more knowledge or insights. You can also consider consulting old photographs, letters, or other memorabilia that might provide clues about their interests and experiences.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary is a celebration of the person's life, so feel free to inject some personality and humor into the writing. Personal anecdotes and stories can help bring the person to life and make the obituary more engaging and memorable.

How soon after a death should an obituary be published?

The timing of when to publish an obituary varies depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences. Generally, it's best to publish it within a few days of the person's passing, while the news is still fresh and relevant.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes, many people choose to publish an obituary online only, either through social media platforms or dedicated online memorial websites. This can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option that still allows you to share news of your loved one's passing with a wide audience.

What if I need to make changes to an already-published obituary?

If you need to make corrections or updates to an already-published obituary, contact the publication or platform where it was originally published. They may have specific procedures for making changes or issuing corrections.

Can I reuse an existing obituary template or example?

You can certainly use existing templates or examples as inspiration when writing an obituary. However, be sure to customize it to fit your loved one's unique life and personality. Avoid simply copying and pasting generic language that doesn't accurately reflect their story.

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

If there are certain aspects of your loved one's life that are sensitive or private, it's best to exercise discretion when deciding what to include in the obituary. Consider consulting with other family members or close friends before publishing any potentially sensitive information.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about writing an obituary, consider enlisting the help of a trusted friend or family member. You can also reach out to a professional writer or journalist who specializes in crafting compelling life stories.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or other meaningful phrases can add depth and context to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with your loved one's personality or values.

How do I ensure that my loved one's memory is honored through their obituary?

To ensure that your loved one's memory is honored through their obituary, focus on capturing their spirit, passions, and accomplishments in a way that feels authentic and true to who they were. Avoid clichés or generic language that doesn't do justice to their unique story.

What if I need help finding resources for writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to find resources or guidance for writing an obituary, consider reaching out to local funeral homes, hospices, or bereavement support groups for assistance. Online forums and support groups can also provide valuable advice and insights from others who have gone through similar experiences.

Can I include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers?

Yes! Many families choose to suggest charitable donations in lieu of flowers as a way to honor their loved one's memory. Be sure to include specific details about the charity or cause being supported.

How do I know if my loved one would want certain information included in their obituary?

If you're unsure about what information your loved one would want included in their obituary, try considering their personality, values, and preferences during life. Would they want certain achievements highlighted? Would they prefer humor over solemnity? Use your knowledge of them as a guide when making these decisions.

What if I'm dealing with complex family dynamics when writing an obituary?

In situations where family dynamics are complicated or strained, it may be helpful to enlist the assistance of a neutral third party (such as a funeral home director) who can facilitate communication and ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the content of the obituary.

Can I write multiple versions of an obituary for different audiences?

Yes! Depending on your needs and goals, you may want to write multiple versions of an obituary tailored for different audiences (e.g., friends vs. coworkers). Just be sure to maintain consistency across all versions when it comes to key facts like dates and names.

How do I preserve my loved one's legacy beyond just their obituary?

Beyond just writing an obituary, consider creating a lasting legacy for your loved one through activities like storytelling sessions with family members; creating photo albums or scrapbooks; establishing scholarships or charitable funds; or even planting trees or gardens in their honor.

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

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

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

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

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About Jeffery Isleworth

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