New Hope Funeral Home Obituaries

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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 is usually published in a newspaper, online obituary website, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and acquaintances 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 need to know about the funeral arrangements and other details. They also provide a sense of closure for loved ones and allow them to share their grief with others.

Who writes an obituary?

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

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include funeral service details, memorial contributions, and other relevant information.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or website it will be published in. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

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

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

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

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to find out their specific submission guidelines. You may need to provide the written obituary, payment information, and any required documentation.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms and websites that allow you to publish an obituary. These websites often offer additional features such as guest books, condolence messages, and photo galleries.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or flat fees.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is not possible to make changes to an obituary once it has been published in print. However, online obituaries may be editable depending on the platform's policies.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

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

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, including meaningful quotes or song lyrics can add a personal touch to an obituary and help capture the essence of the deceased person's personality or spirit.

What if I don't have all the necessary information for an obituary?

If you're missing certain details or facts about the deceased person's life, you can still write a meaningful obituary. Focus on sharing stories and anecdotes that celebrate their life and legacy.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a great way to honor the deceased person's personality and spirit. Just be sure to use good taste and discretion when deciding what to include.

How do I notify people about the funeral service?

In addition to publishing an obituary, you can also notify friends and family about the funeral service through social media, email invitations, or personal phone calls.

What if I want to keep the funeral service private?

If you prefer to keep the funeral service private, you can indicate this in the obituary by stating "private funeral" or "family services only."

Can I include 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 and support a worthy cause.

How do I handle condolences and sympathy messages?

You can include a condolence message or guest book feature with the online obituary, allowing friends and family to leave messages of support. You may also receive cards, flowers, or other gestures of sympathy.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member. You can also seek guidance from a funeral home or professional obituary writer.

Can I republish an old obituary?

If you want to republish an old obituary for any reason (e.g., anniversary of death), you may need to obtain permission from the original publication or follow their republication guidelines.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for someone who was young or died suddenly?

Yes, writing an obituary for someone who died young or suddenly requires sensitivity and tact. Be honest about the circumstances of their death while focusing on celebrating their life and legacy.

Can I include links or attachments in an online obituary?

This depends on the online platform or website where you're publishing the obituary. Some sites may allow links or attachments, while others may not. Check their guidelines before submitting your obituary.

How do I ensure that my obituary is accurate and error-free?

Carefully proofread your obituary multiple times before submitting it for publication. Ask others to review it as well to catch any mistakes or inaccuracies.