Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care Obituaries

Understanding the Importance of Funeral Care: Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care

Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care, located at 814 Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD, 21401, is a trusted funeral home that provides compassionate and personalized funeral services to families in need. Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, and it's essential to have a reliable and caring partner to guide you through the process. In this article, we'll delve into the importance of funeral care, the services offered by Lasting Tributes, and what sets them apart from other funeral homes.

A Brief History of Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care

Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care has been serving the Annapolis community for many years, providing a range of funeral services that cater to diverse needs and preferences. Their commitment to excellence and compassion has earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted funeral homes in the area. With a team of experienced professionals, they strive to create meaningful tributes that celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed on.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Don Laurance Harmon M.D - April 16, 1926 - October 12, 2018

Departed: 10/12/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Don Laurance Harmon, 92, passed away on Oct. 12. He lived a long, honorable, generous life, and his friends and family will miss him very much.

Dr. Harmon was born in Columbia, Missouri to Prof. E. M. and Gladys Harmon. He graduated from University of Louisville with an A.B in Biology, an M.S. in Botany, and from the School of Medicine in 1954.

He had a private surgery practice in Louisville and later in southern California and was a member of the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Harmon served in the Navy during WWII before entering medical school. In 1968 he was called to active duty in the Air Force. He served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War as Hospital Commander in Udorn, Thailand. He was also Hospital Commander in Bitburg, Germany and at George A.F.B., California. He was Chief of Surgery at Langley A.F.B., Virginia and at Shaw A.F.B., South Carolina.

Dr. Harmon earned many honors including the Legion of Merit (twice,) Air Medal, and Meritorious Service, all with Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

He retired from the Air Force as a Colonel with more than 44 years of service.

He was predeceased by his wife of 47 years, Martha W. Harmon, M.D., his wife of 21 years, Donne D. Harmon, M.D., and his daughter Laura Harmon.

Dr. Harmon is survived by his children Linda Hannigan (Mike,) David Harmon (Terri,) and Richard Harmon (Julia;) grandchildren Elizabeth Kramer (Chris,) Rebecca, Aaron (Carrie,) and David Hannigan, and Laura Harmon; and great grandsons Aiden and William Kramer.

Dr. Harmon was also devoted to his nephew, Carl Dick, and his step-family, especially Julie DeMunbrun and Suzanne and Steve Gilmore.

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Ralph Charles Reeder - July 12, 1929 - October 12, 2018

Departed: 10/12/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary.

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Margie Catherine Wilson Monell-Wetzel - January 14, 1924 - October 09, 2018

Departed: 10/09/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary.

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Bruce Charles Michalec - May 16, 1939 - October 06, 2018

Departed: 10/06/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an obituary to be written by Bruce's family.

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Johanna Elisabeth Hoedemaeker- Cohen - January 15, 1950 - October 06, 2018

Departed: 10/06/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary.

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Stephen C. Hosea - February 16, 1952 - October 06, 2018

Departed: 10/06/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Stephen C. Hosea, Firm President and founder of McNamee Hosea, Jernigan, Kim, Greenan and Lynch P.A., passed away from complications of Lymphoma on Saturday at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore at the age of 66.

Steve was born February 16, 1952 in Columbus, Indiana to Newlyn Hosea and Marie (Strietelmeier) Hosea. He lived in his childhood home of “Terrace Lake” with his siblings Newlyn Hosea and Judith Fienen until going off to college at the University of Virginia. He settled down in Maryland where he met his wife of 43 years, Lee Hosea (nee McNamee). Deciding to follow in his father-in-law’s footsteps, Steve enrolled at the University of Baltimore School of Law, graduating with his Juris Doctorate in 1979 and continuing on to Georgetown University Law Center for his LL.M. in Taxation. Stephen built up his client relationships by focusing on business law and trust and estates and founded McNamee & Hosea, P.A. in 1982 with his father-in-law, David McNamee.

Steve served clients in the Washington DC markets and most recently in the Baltimore-Annapolis corridor. While he represented some of the area’s most influential business leaders and privately held companies, he also took pride in representing small business owners and individuals. He found great purpose in continually learning and evolving in order to better serve his clients. Besides maintaining his practice, he also served as the firm’s chairing Board of Directors and Managing Principal Group. He always made sure to dedicate time to mentoring young attorneys and knew that success and legacy rested on his impact of the next generation.

In addition to law, Steve served many charitable and service organizations. He served on several local boards including the Maryland Theatre for the Performing Arts, Prince George’s Child Resource Center and Prince George’s Hospital Center Foundation. Steve enjoyed many interests outside of the office, including golf, tennis and following his University of Virginia Cavalier basketball team. His most cherished time was spent with family and watching the growth of his two grandsons.

He is survived by his wife, Lee Hosea; his son, Bill Hosea; daughter-in-law, Claudia Hosea; two grandsons, Thomas and Matthew; siblings Newlyn Hosea of Springfield, IL and Judith Fienen of St. Peter, MN; along with niece Sonja Trainer of Bethesda,MD; nephew Paul Hosea of Springfield, IL; nephew Philip Hosea of Cheverly,MD; nephew Michael Fienen of Madison, WI and nephew Joel Fienen of North Mankato, MN.

His passion and great example of values – hard work, honesty, integrity and trust- greatly impact all who had the privilege to know and work with Steve. A private celebration of life will be held in his honor at the Hosea home.

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Eric Mendoza - October 05, 2018 - October 05, 2018

Departed: 10/05/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Services will be private.

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Carl Fred Allen - June 20, 1936 - September 28, 2018

Departed: 09/28/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: On September 28, 2018, Fred died peacefully at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, MD. He was surrounded and supported by his family as he passed. Fred was born on June 20, 1936, to C.S. and Roberta Allen and was raised in Monroe, LA. He went to LSU, graduating in 1958, and afterwards served in the Army. Most of his professional life was spent in Houston, TX, where he worked in banking, serving as Vice President of Chemical Bank and later as President of Wallis State Bank.

Fred was devoted to his family-- his wife of 51 years, Mary Holden Allen, and his daughter, Michelle Allen-Emerson. After retirement, he and Mary relocated to Annapolis to be close to Michelle and her family--son-in-law Robert Allen-Emerson and granddaughter Lottie Allen-Emerson. Fred found satisfaction in faith and service at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Houston and, after relocating to Annapolis, at All Hallows Parish. Fred was always the life of the party; he loved being around people and telling tall tales. He had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs, and—as he requested—the ashes of his beloved cocker spaniel Missy will be interred with him.

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Frances Virginia Sweeney - May 23, 1940 - September 26, 2018

Departed: 09/26/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary.

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April Augusta Hartman - March 07, 1991 - September 26, 2018

Departed: 09/26/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: April was born on March 7, 1991 in Silver Spring, MD. She is the daughter of Stephen Hamilton Hartman and Gloria Homick Laird. April is the third of three children, with two older brothers, Stephen Hamilton Hartman II and William Garrett Hartman. She excelled in the classroom as well as on the athletic field, and was an over-achiever for sure. April graduated 4th in her class at Blake High School. She played lacrosse all four years, and was All-County Defense her senior year. April kept spirits high through dance on the Pom Squad, and competed on the team to win two State Championships.

After high school, April went to Tulane University in New Orleans, where her older brother Stephen was living after having just graduated from Tulane. While there, she continued to achieve high grades and was in the Honors Program. She was soon joined by her middle brother Garrett in New Orleans, thus completing the triumvirate once again. The three of them would spend what can now be called some of the best years of their life together in New Orleans, playing kickball and enjoying all that the city had to offer. April’s love of music was developed in New Orleans, where music is a way of life.

Tulane University conferred upon April the degree of Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude with Honors in Psychology, May 18, 2013. April remained in New Orleans working full-time for Tulane Medical Center, part-time babysitting, and on May 14, 2016, Tulane University conferred upon April the degree of Master of Public Health. April returned to her native Washington, D.C. at age 25 to work at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. She was the Doctor Residency Program Administrator in the Department of Medicine. She brought a light to all she worked with in the program. One of her favorite ideas which she put into action, was Candy Rounds for the over worked and always hungry doctors. April used the word “angel” when responding to the doctors in residency. We know they all thought she was truly the Angel! “Red hair, hand-me-down robe, you must be a Weasley.” April loved to laugh and would have her entire family in stitches when she recited that Harry Potter quote. She was a joy to be around, always putting others before herself. Her sense of humor and love of life was infectious. April was and will forever be a sister, a daughter, and a friend. April will be in our Hearts Forever!

In addition to her parents, April is survived by her brother Stephen and Bonus Sister Ann Banks Farley of New York, her brother Garrett and Bonus Sister Stephanie Moore Hartman of New Orleans, her Bonus Dad, Mark Laird of Kent Island together with her Bonus brothers Mark Jr. and Chris, as well as her Bonus Mom, Bobbe Spaete of Chantilly, together with her Bonus brother Tyler and bonus sister Kristyn.

A Memorial Sharing to Celebrate April’s Beautiful Life will be held Saturday October 6th, 10:30 am at Gonzaga College High School Chapel (not St. Al’s Church) at nineteen I (Eye) Street, Washington D.C.. The family invites everyone to share stories about their times with April. Gloria asks that you to write down (on any paper) & bring the story so it can be collated into an April Storybook.

The family will receive Friends at Lasting Tributes Funeral Home, 814 Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401, on Sunday, October 7th, during the hours of 6-8pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held Monday October 8th, 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 Bestgate Road, Annapolis MD 21401.

April will Rest in Peace at the Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 13801 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20906. Private family burial to be held Tuesday, 10:30 am.

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Margaret Simmons Vining - May 22, 1933 - September 25, 2018

Departed: 09/25/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary.

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Dorothy Werst Stone - October 17, 1930 - September 25, 2018

Departed: 09/25/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Dorothy Jean Stone of Annapolis, MD went to be with the Lord on September 25, 2018. She was 87 years old. Dorothy was born in Seattle, WA on October 7, 1930, the only child of Alvin and Winifred Werst.

After her marriage and the birth of her two children, John Richard Stone and Elizabeth Ann (Stone) Taylor she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the San Diego State University and later a Master’s degree in Education and French from University of California, San Diego. She taught third through sixth grade for 25 years, with a one-year sabbatical studying French in Tours, France.

Her passion for education, French, and sharing the gospel continued after her retirement by assisting in developing a Sunday School curriculum in French for the Plymouth Brethren Church in Montreal, Canada. She also stayed involved in the academic and spiritual education of her grandchildren and ran Precepts Bible studies and Good News Clubs in both San Diego, CA and Arnold, MD.

Dorothy is survived by her two children and their spouses, Doris Stone and David Taylor, as well as six grandchildren (and their spouses), Peter Stone (Karen Stone), Elisabeth Parish (John Parish), Andrea Stone, Jonathan Stone (Cindy Moon), Allison Taylor and Mark Taylor, and five great-grandchildren, Emily Stone, Rachel Stone, Ella Stone, Simon Parish and Joy Stone.

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Samuel Allen Butler - August 16, 1959 - September 25, 2018

Departed: 09/25/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an obituary to be written by Sammy's family.

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Frederick Bahrenburg - October 26, 1925 - September 22, 2018

Departed: 09/22/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary.

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Timothy Miles Cober - June 02, 1947 - September 22, 2018

Departed: 09/22/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Capt. Timothy Miles Cober Sr passed away on Sept 22, 2018 at his home in Annapolis, MD. He was born on June 2, 1947 to Joseph H. and Violet W. Cober in Wilkensburg, PA. He was the Captain of the football team and earned a bachelor’s degree in Marine Transportation from The United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point graduating in 1969. He sailed as an officer in the United States Merchant Marine until 1972 when he joined the Association of Maryland Pilots where he piloted ships on the Chesapeake Bay for the next 38 years retiring in 2010.

Tim enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, water sports, reading, artwork, woodworking, cars and music. He loved traveling on his boat throughout the Chesapeake Bay and the East Coast going as far south as Key West. He served on boards of various community associations and was a member of Solomon's Island Yacht Club and the Hatteras Classic Club. He holds Coast Guard Licenses In-Land Master Unlimited - Maryland State First Class Pilot and Second Mate Off-Shore.

He is preceded in death by both of his parents and is survived by his wife Janet of 46 years, his sons and their wives, Tim Jr (Courtney) of Annapolis and Rick (Julie) of Severna Park, his granddaughter Caroline, and dog Izzy. A spreading of his ashes will occur privately, and a Celebration of Life is being planned for a future date.

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Arturo Torrence Lowe - December 08, 1960 - September 22, 2018

Departed: 09/22/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an obituary to be written by Arturo's family.

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Philip Eugene Pratt - February 03, 1954 - September 19, 2018

Departed: 09/19/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Philip Eugene Pratt, 64, of Annapolis, MD departed his earthly home to go to his eternal home on Wednesday, September 19, 2018. He was born February 3, 1954 to the late Frank and Georgia Pratt.

Affectionately known as "Gene" and "Pop Pop" by family and friends. Gene received his education from Anne Arundel County Public Schools. He was employed by AACPS and drove for Mayflower Moving and Storage as well as Johnson Family Refuse and Trash Removal Company.

Gene was a loving and supporting father and a doting grandfather. He enjoyed having his granchildren around and just sitting on the front porch. He enjoyed his TV shows like Westerns and Army shows, as well as the ID channel and football. His favorite team was the New England Patriots. Most of all, family was very important to him.

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Alan Whitney Fitch - August 01, 1940 - September 17, 2018

Departed: 09/17/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Alan Whitney Fitch Sr. died on September 17, 2018 due to complications of ALS. His family thanks God for the example of integrity and love that he displayed throughout his life. His family has all been blessed with fond memories of the generous, helpful, and wise man that has loved both them and God. He enjoyed building and fixing things which included going on building projects with teams from his church. His faith and his family were his greatest joys in life.

He was born on August 1, 1940 to Ezra and Madge Fitch. Alan enlisted in the Air Force in 1959 and served for 20 years. While stationed in Denver, Colorado he met and married Evelyn, the love of his life. While serving in the Air Force he earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering. After retiring from the Air Force as a Captain he served in various capacities at the Electromagnetic Compatibility Analysis Center and its successor, the Joint Spectrum Center.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Evelyn, his brother James Prentiss (Patricia), his sister Sandra, his sons Alan Jr. and Chris, daughter-in-laws Mara and Carolyn, and three grandchildren Benjamin, Alysa, and Sean.

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Kincey Burdett Potter - October 31, 1942 - September 15, 2018

Departed: 09/15/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: For friends and family seeking information about Kincey, we will be rewriting her website at http://www.kincey.com, (which already has a couple of interesting posts that Kincey wrote in the mid-2000’s) but in the meantime there have been several obituaries and tributes printed and posted online, especially in the Annapolis Capital Gazette for Tuesday, September 18th, on the front page www.capitalgazette.com/news/obituaries/ac-cn-kincey-potter-20180917-story.html, and in a Guest Editorial on Wednesday, the 19th, by Bob Gallagher, co-chair with Kincey of the Anne Arundel Chapter of the Maryland League of Conservation Voters. The South River Federation has a lovely tribute on their website at SouthRiverFederation.Net, and the Watershed Stewards Academy has a touching tribute by Executive Director Suzanne Etgen at http://aawsa.org/blog. Also, search Facebook for posts about Kincey.

In accordance with her wishes and our long-standing plan, there will be no service, but we will be announcing a memorial commemoration, hopefully on a boat, this fall. For those who would like to make a contribution in Kincey’s honor in lieu of flowers, she has been most engaged in: The South River Federation (check with Kevin Green ka.green@comcast.net or Liz Buxton liz@southriverfederation.net); The Anne Arundel County Watershed Stewards Academy (Suzanne Etgen setgen@watershedstewards.com); or

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Florence Rosetta Stanchel - August 10, 1929 - September 15, 2018

Departed: 09/15/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Florence Stanchel was called to rest and departed this life on September 15, 2018. She was the youngest of five children born to the late James Louis and Lottie Pough in Philadelphia, PA. Florence was preceded in death by her siblings: Karine West, Louis Pough, Haywood Pough, and James Pough Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Pough moved their family to Washington, DC while the children were very young. Florence attended and graduated from Dunbar High School. She entered the working world and worked at Georgetown University. Later she met a U.S. Army Soldier, Sgt. Samuel C. Curtis, married and traveled to various countries and military bases. Florence was a loving, devoted and attentive mother to her only child, Derwood. Upon the passing of Samuel, Florence moved to Chicago, Illinois to start the next phase of her life. She worked numerous jobs in retail and logistics. She then married Wallace Stanchel, another former Soldier and lived there for the next 15 years. She returned home to Washington, DC to assist in caring for her mother and be with the rest of her family. Her last residence was at the Genesis Nursing Care Facility in Severna Park MD, where she made many friends, inspired those around her and was a spark of life to all.

Florence was very active in the Church. She attended the family church, Turner Memorial AME in Washington DC, followed by Third Baptist Church of Chicago and ended at the St. James Church in Havre de Grace, Maryland. She was very active and enjoyed singing in many choirs, being a soloist whenever asked and helping others.

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William Lawrence Hanson - December 24, 1929 - September 15, 2018

Departed: 09/15/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: "Death is not the time to recognize one's level of education, achievements in life or memberships, but a time to thank God for the wonderful life he has provided me. Thank you to my wife Jeanette for her love and support over our 68 years of marriage. Thank you to my three sons Bill, Frank and Van; daughter-in-laws Katie, Sandy and Patty; and grandchildren Will, Jenna, Chelsea and Dylan for the love and happiness we have all shared. Thanks to my brothers Jim and Larry and their families, relatives and friends for remaining close and for the fun times we have shared. Do not mourn- enjoy the wonderful life God has given you. Love, Bill Hanson"

William Lawrence Hanson (Bill), 88, of Pasadena, MD passed away on September 15, 2018.

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Erlinda Sipagan Sarabia - September 21, 1936 - September 14, 2018

Departed: 09/14/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Erlinda (Linda) Sipagan Sarabia was born in Manila in the Philippines on September 21, 1936 to the late Rodrigo Sipagan and Victoria Deleon Sipagan. She graduated from the Philippines Women’s University with a Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in Nutrition. She then moved to Toronto, Canada where she met and married Felix Sarabia on Oct 3, 1966 and immigrated to the United States.

Linda is survived by her husband, Felix, daughter, Maribeth Friend, and son-in-law, Larry Friend. She has three grandchildren, Corey (Chloe), Carina, and Felicia, and three great-grandchildren; Landon, Trystan, and Jayden. The oldest of ten siblings, Linda is also survived by four brothers; Jordan, Robert, Amador, and Rodrigo, and two sisters,: Nora and Herminia, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A visitation and rosary will be held Friday, September 28, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care in Annapolis, MD. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, September 29, 10 AM at St. John Neumann Church in Annapolis, MD. Burial in Bestgate Memorial Park.

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Allen Edgar Randall Jr. - March 06, 1971 - September 12, 2018

Departed: 09/12/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an obituary to be written by Allen's family.

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Gary Douglas Hess - August 28, 1950 - September 11, 2018

Departed: 09/11/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview:

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James Harden Wales - October 10, 1926 - September 08, 2018

Departed: 09/08/2018 (Annapolis)

Obituary Preview: Please check back for an updated obituary written by the family.

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The Importance of Funeral Care

Funeral care is an essential aspect of saying goodbye to a loved one. It provides an opportunity for family and friends to come together, share memories, and find closure. A well-planned funeral service can help alleviate the emotional burden of loss, allowing individuals to focus on healing and moving forward. At Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care, their team understands the significance of funeral care and is dedicated to creating personalized services that honor the deceased and comfort those left behind.

Services Offered by Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care

Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care offers a comprehensive range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family. Some of their services include:

- Traditional funeral services with viewing and visitation

- Cremation services with memorialization options

- Memorial services without the presence of the body

- Pre-planning and pre-funding options

- Burial services in local cemeteries or crematories

- Veteran's services and benefits assistance

- Grief support and counseling resources

The Benefits of Pre-Planning with Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care

Pre-planning your funeral service can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. By making arrangements in advance, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, and your family is spared from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief. Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care offers pre-planning services that allow you to:

- Make informed decisions about your funeral service

- Lock in costs at today's prices

- Ensure that your wishes are carried out according to your preferences

- Alleviate the emotional burden on your family

The Role of Technology in Modern Funeral Services

In today's digital age, technology plays an increasingly important role in funeral services. Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care recognizes the significance of technology in enhancing the funeral experience. They offer:

- Online obituaries and tribute pages

- Live streaming of funeral services for remote attendees

- Digital memorialization options, such as video tributes and online memorials

- Electronic registration books and condolence messages

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness at Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care

Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care is committed to reducing their environmental footprint while still providing high-quality funeral services. They offer eco-friendly options such as:

- Biodegradable caskets and urns

- Green burial options in local cemeteries

- Carbon-neutral cremation processes

- Recycling programs for metal implants and medical devices

Why Choose Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care?

When it comes to choosing a funeral home, it's essential to select a provider that shares your values and priorities. At Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care, their team is dedicated to:

- Providing compassionate and personalized service

- Offering flexible pricing options to fit your budget

- Creating meaningful tributes that celebrate life stories

- Supporting local communities through charitable initiatives

- Maintaining transparency and integrity in all aspects of their business

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 may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial service arrangements.

Why are obituaries important?

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

Who typically writes an obituary?

The responsibility of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary.

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, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral or memorial services.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. It's essential to check with the publication or platform for their specific guidelines.

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 tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper through their website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for the publication.

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's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

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

Can I include humor in an obituary?

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

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice an error or inaccuracy in an obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately. They will usually correct the mistake and reprint or update the obituary accordingly.

Can I republish an obituary in multiple places?

Yes, you can republish an obituary in multiple places, such as online platforms, social media, and local newspapers. Just be sure to check with each publication for their specific guidelines and fees.

What's the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some online platforms offer free listings, while others may charge a fee based on the length of the obituary or additional features like photos or videos.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a good cause.

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

The time it takes for an obituary to be published varies depending on the publication or platform. Online platforms may publish immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or weeks.

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

In some cases, it may be possible to make minor edits to an obituary after it's been published. However, significant changes may not be possible once it's gone to print.

What's the purpose of an online obituary guestbook?

An online obituary guestbook allows friends and family to leave condolences, share memories, and pay their respects to the deceased. It provides a virtual space for people to come together and celebrate the person's life.

Can I create a memorial website for my loved one?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to create a memorial website for your loved one. These websites often include features such as photo galleries, guestbooks, and donation pages.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search for old obituaries through online archives, libraries, or genealogy websites. Many newspapers also maintain archives of past issues that can be searched online or in-person.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing an obituary with friends and family who may not have access to traditional print newspapers.

What's the etiquette for responding to condolences on social media?