Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. Obituaries

Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc.: A Legacy of Compassionate Service

Located at 873 Lincoln Way East, McConnellsburg, PA 17233, Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. has been a pillar of the community, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for delivering personalized and dignified ceremonies that honor the memory of loved ones.

A Family-Owned Tradition of Excellence

As a family-owned and operated funeral home, Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. understands the importance of treating each family with the same care and respect they would want for their own. The Sipes family has been dedicated to serving their community for generations, and their commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their business. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll be greeted with warmth, empathy, and a genuine desire to help you navigate the difficult process of planning a funeral.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Marilyn R. Strait - June 30, 1931 - April 20, 2022

Departed: 04/20/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: Marilyn R. Strait, 90, of McConnellsburg, PA, passed away Wednesday, April 20th, at Bedford Colonial Courtyard, Bedford, PA.

Marilyn was born in Needmore, PA on June 30, 1931, a daughter of the late Thelma R. (Mellott) and Walter R. Morton.  She was the widow of Jay Thurman Strait, whom she married on June 18, 1955.  He preceded her in death on March 20, 1984.

Marilyn was a nurse at the Chambersburg Hospital and the Fulton County Medical Center before retiring in the early 1980's from London Fog in Hancock, MD as their Occupational  Health Nurse. She attended the Sideling Hill Christian Church in Needmore, PA.  Marilyn loved the outdoors, especially camping and fishing with her family.  She also enjoyed cooking and gardening.               She is survived by her daughters Yvonne T. Griest, of McConnellsburg, PA and Joan M. Ford, of Breezewood, PA.  Marilyn is also survived by four grandchildren; Laurel M. Griest, James F. Griest, Brian Strait, Christopher Ford,  four great grandchildren Ian M. Hampton, Nathan M. Hampton, Jaylyn Strait and Cheyenne Strait.  She was preceded in death by her second husband Sam Mellott and two brothers.

Funeral services will be held at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA, at 11:00 AM  on Saturday, April 23rd,  with Pastor Rodney Truax officiating.  There will be a visitation held one hour prior to the funeral on Saturday.

Interment will be at Siloam United Methodist Cemetery Harrisonville, PA.

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James Oliver Long - April 23, 1965 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: James Oliver "Jim" Long, 56, of McConnellsburg, PA, passed away Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at his residence.

Jim was born in McConnellsburg, PA, on April 23, 1965, a son of the late Janet "Joann" (Pyne) and Gilbert  Long.

Jim loved his family, especially his grandchildren.  He could fix just about anything and he enjoyed helping others.

He is survived by his daughter Krisha D. Long, of McConnellsburg, PA; sisters Cindy Cohenour of Orbisonia, PA, Cheryl  Long of Rock Hill, PA, Juanita Randoll of Huntingdon, PA and brother Michael  Long of Shade Gap, PA.  He is also survived by three grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by a niece Nikki Long and a granddaughter Savaya Klinger.

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Shirley Mae Barclay - October 28, 1943 - April 11, 2022

Departed: 04/11/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Dick A. Knepper - Unknown - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Jordan L. Castle - Unknown - March 31, 2022

Departed: 03/31/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Roy C. Miller - Unknown - March 31, 2022

Departed: 03/31/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Mary H. Sipes - Unknown - March 30, 2022

Departed: 03/30/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Carter Price Bard - August 28, 1946 - March 22, 2022

Departed: 03/22/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: Carter Price Bard, 75, of Lovettsville, Virginia was led into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 22, 2022. He was surrounded by his wife and his four children.

He was born on August 28, 1946 and raised on a dairy farm in Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania.  A son of the late Ina Martha (Garland) and Frank  Earnest Bard.

In high school, he served as State Vice President of the Future Farmers of America. Carter married his high school sweetheart, Marie (Peck). He enlisted in the Navy in 1965 and worked with intelligence for 24 years, retiring as Lieutenant Commander. Following his retirement from the Navy, he worked with Raytheon for another 24 years as a defense contractor.  Throughout his life, he and his wife served in various ministries: teaching Sunday School, leading youth groups, mentoring teens and young couples, and volunteering with Gideons International for many years.  He particularly enjoyed leading an English Bible class while working with missionaries when he was stationed in Japan. His hobbies were cars, hunting, and RVing. He and his wife loved traveling to southern gospel music concerts. Most of all, their greatest joy was their kids and grandkids.

He is survived by his wife and their four children and eleven grandchildren:  his son Eric Bard of Fairfax, VA, and granddaughter Sadie Bard; daughter Angela Ellis and spouse Chad Ellis of Lucketts, VA and grandsons Nathan, Benjamin, and Daniel Ellis; son Mark Bard and spouse Elaine of Miami Beach, FL, and grandson Matthew Bard; daughter Amy Koleszar and spouse Steven of Lovettsville, VA and grandchildren Olivia Larry, William, Heidi, Emmeline, Gideon, and Margaret Koleszar.

Carter is also survived by his brothers Delmas (husband of Shirley) Bard, of Warfordsburg, PA, Forrest (husband of Diana) Bard, of Westford, MA, Lauren (husband of Debra) Bard, of Warfordsburg, PA, Denvin  (husband of Brenda) Bard, of Warfordsburg, PA, Lynn (husband of Julia) Bard, of Warfordsburg, PA and sister Vesta (wife of Ken) Streeb, of Eaton, CO.  He was preceded in death by a sister Reba Geist.

There will be a visitation held on Friday, April 1, 2022 from 5 PM to 8 PM at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home, Inc., McConnellsburg, PA.  There will also be one hour of visitation held prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be held at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 2, 2022, with Pastor Van Marsceau and Pastor Delmas Bard officiating.

Interment will be at Jerusalem Christian Cemetery Warfordsburg, PA.  Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Honor Guard.

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H. LaVerne Stinson - April 10, 1930 - March 21, 2022

Departed: 03/21/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: H. LaVerne Stinson, 91, of  Three Springs, PA, passed away Monday, March 21, 2022 at Menno Haven Chambers Point Health Care, Chambersburg, PA.

LaVerne, daughter of the late Ava M. (Hershey) and Gerald E. Fix, was born in Hustontown, PA on April 10, 1930.  She was preceded in death by her spouse Richard M. Stinson, Sr.

In her early years, LaVerne attended the Hustontown High School. She retired from the Scotland School for Veterans Children.  She was of the Methodist faith.  LaVerne served on the elections board for Cromwell Township for many years. LaVerne will be remembered for her strong will, quick wit, chocolate chip cookies and sticky buns.  In her own words she liked to "mow, sew and hoe."

She is survived by her daughters Linda  J. (wife of Thomas) McMath, of Shade Gap, PA,  Dixie C. (wife of George) Heacock, of Fort Littleton, PA and son Richard M. (husband of Cheryl) Stinson, Jr., of Knobsville, PA.  She is also survived by eight grandchildren Ashley (husband of Heidi) McMath, Clay (husband of Heidi) McMath, Jill (wife of Brent) Pfeiffenberger, Jessee (husband of Candice) McMath, Austin (husband of Kaitlyn) Heacock, Alex (husband of Ashley) Heacock, Erica Stinson, Scott Stinson and fourteen great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by brothers Kenneth Fix, Walter Fix, William Fix, Don Fix and sisters Frances "Boots" Fix, and Evelyn (Fix) Weber.

Funeral services will be held at the Fairview United Methodist Church, Harrisonville, PA, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 26, 2022  with Pastor Robin Baer officiating.  The family requests those in attendance to follow the CDC Guidelines concerning Covid-19 and to please wear a mask.

Interment will be at Fairview United Methodist Cemetery Harrisonville, PA.

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Blaine F. Fix - January 01, 1936 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: Blaine F. Fix, 86, of Harrisonville, PA, passed away , Wednesday, March 16th, 2022, at the Fulton County Medical Center, McConnellsburg, PA.

Blaine was born in McConnellsburg, PA on January 1, 1936, a son of the late Muta Agnes (Parks) and Frank Lewis Fix.  He was the husband of Helen L. (McFarland) Fix, whom he married on June 16, 1956.

Blaine retired from PennDot as a Foreman after 30 years of service.  He attended the Asbury United Methodist Church in Harrisonville, PA and was a past member of the Forbes Road Lions Club.  Blaine was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend.

Blaine had many interests and hobbies.  He was an avid outdoorsman. He loved hunting gobblers in the spring, deer in the fall, wading a stream or sitting on a bucket along side a lake catching trout.   He especially enjoyed muzzleloader season, hunting with his family and friends, driving deer on Sideling Hill Mountain. He also had a passion for butchering hogs.  Blaine would share his knowledge to friends and family on their annual butchering days, showing up early and staying late to make sure everything was done properly.  He also enjoyed collecting and restoring Farmall Cub tractors.  He would show them off during the annual Fall Folk Festival, entering them into the parade or sitting them outside his house.  Blaine also took great pride in his garden, nurturing it to make sure there would be plenty of vegetables and potatoes for the up coming winter.

In addition to his wife Helen, he is survived by his daughter Deana K. Everhart (companion of Andy Ritchey), of McConnellsburg, PA, son Blaine Allen "Buzz" Fix, of Harrisonville, PA, son Mark L. (husband of Lynne) Fix, of Breezewood, PA, sister Lois Linke, of McConnellsburg, PA, sister Maxine Bard, of McConnellsburg, PA and brother Phillip (husband of Linda) Fix, of Hustontown, PA.  He is also survived by four grandchildren; Jasen Fix, Jarrett Fix, Tyler Fix and Josh Henry, six great grandchildren Isaiah, Sydney, Addison, Grace, Gracie and Brady.  He was preceded in death by sisters Marie DeRhodes, Arlene Umbrell, Phyllis Kerlin, Carlys Slater, Helen Layton, brothers Harold Fix, Earl Fix and Clair Fix.

There will be a Celebration of Life announced at a later date.

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Charles A. Mellott - August 04, 1928 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: Charles A. Mellott, 93, of Needmore, PA, passed away Wednesday, March 16th, at the Fulton County Medical Center, McConnellsburg, PA.

Charles was born in Needmore, PA on August 4, 1928, a son of the late Jessie (Garland) and Blair  Mellott.  He was the widower of Betty Jane L. (Sheeder) Mellott, whom he married on August 26, 1950.  She preceded him in death on June 16, 2010.

Charles served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge from the service, he drove truck before starting C.A. Mellott Lumber, which he owned and operated for thirty years.  He was a member of Pleasant Ridge Church of the Brethren in Needmore, PA  and a Lifetime Member of the Needmore Volunteer Fire Company.  Charles was an avid reader, especially western books from Louis L'Amour and Zane Grey being his favorites.

He is survived by his sons Rodney C. (husband of Christina) Mellott, of Bellefonte, PA, Gregory A. Mellott, of Needmore, PA, Mark A. (husband of Connie) Mellott, of Warfordsburg, PA, brothers Cecil B. (husband of Thelma) Mellott, of Needmore, PA, Russell L. (husband of Doris) Mellott, of Needmore, PA and sister Bonnie R. Dollinger, of Needmore, PA.  He is also survived by seven grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.  He was preceded in death by a sister Vivian Deneen and a brother Willard L. Mellott.

There will be a visitation held on Monday, March 21st, 2022 from 4 PM to 8 PM. at the Pleasant Ridge Church of the Brethren, Needmore, PA.  There will also be one hour of visitation held prior to the service on Tuesday.

Funeral Services will be held at the Pleasant Ridge Church of the Brethren, Needmore, PA, at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 22nd,  with Pastor Roger Truax and Pastor Mac Miller officiating.

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Elizabeth M. "Susie" Mellott - Unknown - March 10, 2022

Departed: 03/10/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Mildred E. Gelvin - Unknown - March 01, 2022

Departed: 03/01/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Lawrence Harley "Ike" Bivens - January 30, 1927 - February 17, 2022

Departed: 02/17/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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William "Ray" Pittman - June 11, 1940 - February 12, 2022

Departed: 02/12/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: William "Ray" Pittman, 81, of  Big Cove Tannery,  PA, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 12th, 2022 at Cadia Healthcare in Hagerstown, MD.

Ray was born on June 11th, 1940 in Big Cove Tannery, PA  to Virgil Wilson Pittman and Etta Marguerite Miller. He was the companion of Susan Moody.                 He graduated from Green Hill High School in 1958. Ray was the president of the Fulton County Pool League for 2 years. He managed Webster Mills, McConnellsburg, Whips Cove, and Greenhill baseball teams. He enjoyed playing basketball, coaching baseball, and had a love for hunting. He attended the Corner Church in Big Cove Tannery, the Hustontown Church of God and the Sideling Hill Christian Church in Needmore.

In Ray’s younger years, he worked for Foster Swope, John Sechrist Farm, Gabler’s Farm, John Hixon Sawmill, Charlie Mellott Sawmill, Shoemaker’s garage, Rayloc, Grove Manufactures and Bedford Valley Petroleum. In more recent years he worked as a manager at the VFW Post 655 for 21 years and was the owner of Pittman’s Tire & Garage for 35 years.

In additon to his companion and her granddaughter Jaycie Moody, he is survived by former wife Mary Ellen Pittman, son Brian (Buck) Pittman of Harrisonville, PA, (husband of Darlene), daughter Mindy Starliper of Needmore, PA, son Lonnie Cline of Chambersburg, (husband of April), daughter Misty Ashley of Needmore, PA, (wife of Tracy) and son Kevin Pittman of Needmore, PA. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Ashley Heinbaugh, Jared Starliper, Chelsea Sigel, Jenny Vanorsdale, Mercedes Huber, Lars Cline, Amanda McKenrick, and Erik Starliper and fourteen great grandchildren, Braelyn Starliper, Ryleigh Starliper, Dekkin Heinbaugh, Westin Heinbaugh, McKinley Sigel, Kye Sigel, Brennan Vanorsdale, Zayne Vanorsdale, Madeline Huber, Michele Huber, Mackenzie Huber, Amelia Cline, Landon Cline, and Preslee McKenrick, brother Virgil James Pittman (husband of Stella) of McConnellsburg, PA and sister Linda Harr (wife of Mike) of Big Cove Tannery, PA.  He was preceded in death by sisters Ethel Davis, Mary Ruth Mellott, Olive Mona Jean Younker, Judi Kenney, Helen Hann, and Alice Golden, brothers Robert Pittman, Paul Pittman, Larry Pittman and Carl Pittman, son Curtis Ray Pittman and son in law Richard Starliper.

There will be visitation held on Tuesday, February 15th at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc,., McConnellsburg, PA from 5PM to 8PM.  There will also be one hour of visitation held prior to the service on Wednesday.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 11:00 AM at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA with Pastor Dick Bernhard officiating.  Interment will be at the Damascus Christian Cemetery, Big Cove Tannery, PA.

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Mary R. Kline - March 08, 1934 - February 08, 2022

Departed: 02/08/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: Mary R. Kline, 87, of McConnellsburg, PA, passed away Tuesday, February 8th, at the Fulton County Medical Center, McConnellsburg, PA.

Mary was born in McConnellsburg, PA on March 8, 1934, a daughter of the late Mame  P. (Gillis) and McClellan E. Pittman.  She was the widow of Horace "Sonny" L. Kline, whom she married on October 24, 1953.  He preceded her in death on November 8, 2004.

Mary was a seamstress at Sagner in McConnellsburg, PA till it closed in 1975.  She was a member of the McConnellsburg United Methodist Church in McConnellsburg, PA.  She enjoyed traveling with her husband in her younger years and she enjoyed reading.

She is survived by her daughter Lorraine M. (wife of Randy) Seiders, of McConnellsburg, PA. She was preceded in death by four brothers Matthew Pittman, Paul Pittman, John Pittman and Robert "Buck" Pittman.

Funeral services will be held at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc, McConnellsburg, PA, at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 11th,  with Pastor Josh Davinsizer officiating.  There will be one hour of visitation held prior to the service at the funeral home.  The family requests those attending the visitation or funeral services to please wear a mask and follow the CDC guidelines concerning COVID-19.

Interment will be at Asbury United Methodist Cemetery Harrisonville, PA.

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Jimmie R. Seville - Unknown - February 07, 2022

Departed: 02/07/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Ora M. Smalley - Unknown - February 05, 2022

Departed: 02/05/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Cynthia J. Whitehead - Unknown - January 28, 2022

Departed: 01/28/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Goldie C. Stains - Unknown - January 27, 2022

Departed: 01/27/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Alma L. Kinzie - Unknown - January 26, 2022

Departed: 01/26/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Gail E. McClain - February 11, 1937 - January 22, 2022

Departed: 01/22/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

Obituary Preview: Gail E. McClain, 84, of McConnellsburg, PA, passed away Saturday, January 22nd, at the Fulton County Medical Center, McConnellsburg, PA.

Gail was born in Waterfall, PA on February 11, 1937, a son of the late Olla (Barnett) and Marshall  McClain.  He was raised by his Uncle Jesse and Aunt Verna McClain.  Gail was the husband of Betty J. (Brown) McClain, whom he married on June 8, 1962.

He was a member of the McConnellsburg United Methodist Church.  Gail worked at Ott Brothers Farm and Appliance for fifty-four years.  He enjoyed the outdoors,doing yard work and he especially loved watching his grandchildren play sports. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Bradley K. (husband of Sherri) McClain, of McConnellsburg, PA, brother Blair (husband of Barbara) McClain, of Carlisle, PA and sister Phyllis McClain  Thumma, of FL.  He is also survived by three grandchildren Danielle (wife of Jamey) DeShong of Shippensburg, PA,  Alex (husband of Jodi) McClain of Paris Island, SC,  Lucas McClain of McConnellsburg, PA, and great grandchildren Kasen and Emberly DeShong.  He was preceded in death by his step-mother Ella McClain, brothers Earl McClain, Brinton McClain, sister Esther McClain Hoy, and step brothers George and Ray Shughart

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Bob L. Wright, Sr. - Unknown - January 19, 2022

Departed: 01/19/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Lois M. (Winegardner) Croom - Unknown - January 13, 2022

Departed: 01/13/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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Barbara J. Weller - Unknown - January 13, 2022

Departed: 01/13/2022 (Mcconnellsburg)

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A Wide Range of Funeral Services

At Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., they recognize that every individual is unique, and that's why they offer a wide range of funeral services to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a traditional funeral service, cremation, or a celebration of life, their experienced team will work closely with you to create a personalized ceremony that reflects the personality and spirit of your loved one.

Personalized Funeral Planning

The team at Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. understands that planning a funeral can be overwhelming, which is why they offer personalized funeral planning services to guide you through every step of the process. From selecting the perfect casket or urn to choosing music, flowers, and other elements that reflect your loved one's personality, they'll be there to support and advise you every step of the way.

Cremation Services with Dignity

If you're considering cremation as an option, Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. offers dignified and respectful cremation services that prioritize the care and handling of your loved one's remains. Their state-of-the-art crematory is operated by trained professionals who ensure that every aspect of the cremation process is carried out with precision and compassion.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

While it may seem difficult to think about, pre-planning your funeral can be a thoughtful gesture to your loved ones, sparing them from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief. At Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., they offer pre-planning services that allow you to make informed decisions about your final arrangements, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary stress.

A Commitment to Community Involvement

Beyond their role as a funeral home, Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. is deeply committed to giving back to their community. They participate in local events, sponsor charitable organizations, and provide educational resources to help families cope with loss and bereavement.

A Legacy of Trust and Compassion

For generations, Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc. has been a beacon of trust and compassion in McConnellsburg and surrounding communities. As you navigate the difficult process of planning a funeral or saying goodbye to a loved one, rest assured that this esteemed funeral home will be there to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who knew them. They help notify people of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and often include information about the person's life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend of the deceased writes the obituary. However, it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer. The writer should have a good understanding of the person's life and be able to capture their personality, accomplishments, and spirit in the write-up.

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 mention any notable awards, military service, or charitable work. Additionally, it should include details about the funeral or memorial service, such as date, time, location, and burial information.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be suitable for online platforms or private memorials.

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

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

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes! Many online obituary platforms and some newspapers allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process. Some newspapers may accept submissions online, while others may require you to email or fax the information. Be sure to ask about their deadlines and any applicable fees.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for a long time?

Absolutely! While traditional obituaries are typically published shortly after a person's passing, there's no rule against writing one for someone who has been deceased for years or even decades. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and share their story with others.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for a veteran?

Yes. When writing an obituary for a veteran, it's essential to include their military service information, such as branch of service, rank, and any notable awards or decorations. You may also want to mention any relevant military organizations or charities they were involved with.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including humorous anecdotes or quotes that reflect the person's personality can make the tribute more engaging and relatable.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If the deceased had a sensitive or complex medical condition, it's generally best to avoid mentioning specific details in the obituary. Instead, focus on celebrating their life and accomplishments without revealing sensitive information.

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

Yes! Many families prefer that donations be made to a specific charity or organization in lieu of sending flowers. This can be mentioned in the obituary along with information on how to make the donation.

How do I proofread an obituary for errors?

Carefully review the obituary for spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and factual inaccuracies before submitting it. Ask multiple people to review it as well to catch any potential mistakes.

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

This depends on the publication or platform. Some may allow corrections or updates, while others may not. Be sure to check their policies before submitting the obituary.

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

The timeframe varies depending on the publication or platform. Online obituaries may be published immediately or within hours of submission. Newspaper obituaries may take several days or even weeks to appear in print.

Can I republish an obituary from another source?

If you're considering republishing an obituary from another source, ensure you have permission from the original author or publication. Always give credit where credit is due and respect copyright laws.

What is an online memorial?

An online memorial is a digital space where friends and family can share memories, condolences, and stories about the deceased. Many online obituary platforms offer this feature as part of their services.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries that maintain historical records. Some genealogy websites also provide access to archived obituaries.

Can I create an advance directive for my own obituary?

Yes! Consider writing your own obituary as part of your estate planning documents. This ensures that your wishes are respected and your story is told accurately after your passing.

Is there a standard format for writing an obituary?

No single format exists for writing an obituary. However, most follow a general structure that includes essential information about the person's life and death. You can use templates or examples as guides to help you get started.

Can I hire someone to write an obituary for me?

If you're struggling to write an obituary yourself or need additional guidance, consider hiring a professional writer specializing in obituaries. They can help craft a meaningful tribute that honors your loved one.

How do I cope with grief after losing a loved one?

Losing someone close can be incredibly difficult. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support during this challenging time. Remember that grieving is a natural process that takes time.