Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors Obituaries

Introducing Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors, located at 1201 Preston St., Richmond, TX, 77469, has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families in the Richmond community for years. With a rich history of providing exceptional funeral services, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for its unwavering commitment to compassion, dignity, and personalized care.

A History of Excellence

Founded on a foundation of trust, respect, and dedication, Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors has built a legacy of excellence in the funeral industry. The funeral home's experienced team of professionals is dedicated to providing families with the highest level of service, ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to and every family's unique needs are met with sensitivity and understanding.

Funeral Obiturary Search

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

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Oscar Fiallos - January 05, 1953 - May 14, 2024

Departed: 05/14/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Oscar Fiallos.

View Full Obituary

Omarion Coleman - December 16, 2011 - May 09, 2024

Departed: 05/09/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Omarion Coleman.

View Full Obituary

Raelene Smith - September 26, 1952 - May 01, 2024

Departed: 05/01/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Raelene Smith.

View Full Obituary

Helen Marie Pittman - October 24, 1940 - April 30, 2024

Departed: 04/30/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

On October 24, 1940 a new life unfolded in Crabb, Texas. God blessed Willie and Inez Cobbin with a beautiful baby girl whom they named Helen Marie after her Godmother. She accepted Christ at an early age at Zion Hill Baptist Church.

Helen grew up in Crabb where she attended public school and graduated from A. W. Jackson High School. She played the clarinet in the marching band and was on the basketball team.

March of 1961, Helen and the late Ray Pittman were united in holy matrimony. God blessed their union with 3 children: Rhonda, Kevin and Steven. They had a older brother, Tony Ray. She was known for her pecan pies, and always made a fashion statement when she was out and about.

Helen retired from the Richmond State School after 30 years of service. Afterwards, she worked for many years for former Mayors of Richmond, Texas, Hilmer and Evalyn Moore.

Marie, as she was known by those in her community and her church family, was a proud member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. She served as a doorkeeper for the Lord, a member of the culinary ministry, the Love Club, and enjoyed helping with fundraising projects. She was in love with all of the girls on the praise dance team. They were all her special girls.

Helen Marie will be greatly missed, but we are thankful God blessed her to be our mom for 83 years.

Helen was preceded in death by her parent, Willie and Inez Cobbin, her sister Mozelle Duncan, and her brother Sherman Cobbin. She leaves to cherish her memories, one brother, Walter Cobbin Sr. of Houston, Texas, four children: Tony Ray Cobbin, (Richmond, TX), Rhonda Lewis, (Missouri City, TX) Kevin & Odessa Pittman (Rosenberg, TX), and Steven Pittman (Chicago, IL). Helen has 9 grandchildren: LarTarsha Ball, Taranika Pittman, Christopher (Andrea) Miles, JyQuinn Pittman, Whitney, Christopher, Charlie, and David Wayne Cobbin, and Kobe Lewis. She also has eleven great grandchildren: Adrian, Aiden, Auriel, Audrina Marie, Auriah, Ayden, Kaysen, JyQuinn Jr., TyQuinn, Keosha, Kai, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Our beloved Helen Marie: mother, grandmother, GiGi, sister, aunt, and friend will be truly missed. She will be watching over us all as the butterflies and cardinal reminded us on the day she departed. Rest in peace Mom!

View Full Obituary

Richard Burro - July 08, 1983 - April 24, 2024

Departed: 04/24/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Richard Lee Burro, 40, of Katy, Texas passed away on April 24, 2024, in Houston, Texas. He was born on

July 8, 1983 in Bartlesville, OK.

Rick, as he was known to his loved ones, had a deep passion for history and movies from a young age. He found joy in visiting presidential libraries and cherished moments spent with his family, especially with his young niece and nephew. He loved the game of basketball, both playing and observing. He was

always willing to discuss politics and offer his many opinions. He is survived by his parents, Robert and Kathleen Burro, sister Jamie Burro, brother Jeffrey Burro

(Audrey), a niece, Britton Burro and a nephew Owen Burro as well as many cousins, aunts, and uncles.

He was preceded in death by both his maternal and paternal grandparents. Rick graduated from Bartlesville High School and later pursued higher education at the University of

Oklahoma. A funeral mass will be held at St. Faustina’s Catholic Church on Thursday, May 2nd at 3:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Family Hope, 5757 Flewellen Oaks Ln. #303, Fulshear, TX, (832) 332-

5163.

May his soul rest in peace.

View Full Obituary

Luis Gallego - September 27, 1947 - April 13, 2024

Departed: 04/13/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Luis Gallego.

View Full Obituary

Elora Stranton - December 20, 2023 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Elora Stranton.

View Full Obituary

Margarita Lopez Gonzalez - February 22, 1932 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Margarita Lopez Gonzalez.

View Full Obituary

Yvonne Adams - June 08, 1946 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Yvonne Adams was born June 8, 1946 in Brooklynn, New York. She was the oldest of five children to Edward and Artie Oliver who lived in Chicago, IL. She attended and graduated from Crane High School. And later attended Moraine Valley Community College and graduated with a degree in Engineering.

Yvonne married Calvin Hil Jr. in April of 1964 in Chicago, IL. And from that union they had one son Maurice K. Hill Sr. Yvonne worked for Electro Motives (division of GM) in LaGrange, IL in the Engineering Department for several years, before joining Amtrak- where she was employed for 15 years. She later moved to Houston, TX where she worked at the University of Houston, and finally retiring from AT&T in 2011.

Yvonne loved to coordinate family gatherings either at home or Galveston Beach. She loved to travel, some of her favorite vacation spots were Aruba, Paris, France and Hawaii. During those family gatherings and vacations, she collected an abundance of family photos. Which led her to earn the title of the "Photo Queen". Yvonne was the family member you can count on to have photos that dated back to the 1940's.

She later married Olen Adams Sr. who proceed her in death. Yvonne was a loving and caring eldest daughter who often reminding her siblings she was the oldest. She was a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sibling and aunt- overall an amazing person to everyone throughout her life. Yvonne dedicated her life to Jehovah God and was baptized on 09/21/2013. She stood firm in her faith and remained loyal to Jehovah despite her health trials. She faithfully served as an auxiliary pioneer before her health declined. Yvonne would witness many hours during her chemotherapy treatments. One of her favorite scriptures was Revelation 21:4 where it reads: "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."

Yvonne is proceeded in death by her parents Edward and Artie Oliver, and one Sister Barbara A. Hendrix. She leaves to cherish her memory with her siblings Kenneth Oliver, Deloris Steels and Doris Long. Her son Maurice K. Hill Sr., 3 grandsons Domonique Hil, Maurice K. Hill Jr (Teresa Hill) and Shannon Hill; 8 great grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. And a dear, loving spiritual family.

View Full Obituary

Jay Buffington - January 31, 1947 - March 11, 2024

Departed: 03/11/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that the family of Jay Clinton Buffington announce his passing on March 11, 2024 at the age of 77. Jay is survived by his daughter, her husband and 2 grandchildren. Jay will be fondly remembered for his larger than life personality with a smile that lit up the room and a laugh that danced off the walls. Jay attended TCU University with a focus on business studies. Always an entrepreneur at heart owning several businesses throughout his life ranging from bingo parlors to night clubs to restaurants; always entertaining the next big idea. And when he could get away he would spend time with his close friends listening and belting out music or would travel to see his grandchildren to compete in an epic nerf gun battle. He loved feeling the wind in his hair whether that was out sailing the ocean blue, jumping waves with his daughter on jet skis or riding his Harley through the streets of Houston. He had a passion for sports starting at a young age playing ice hockey and football. His love of sports carried on through the years shifting to skiing and playing beach and water volleyball. He always loved a good race down the mountain and friendly competition when it came to sports. On this day, the Lord has called Jay Buffington home and while he is no longer physically with us, his spirit will continue to live in our hearts and memories. We love you always and forever Daddy, J-Pops, Daddy-O, Jay Bird!

View Full Obituary

Lawrence L Pilkinton - October 14, 1947 - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Lawrence L. Pilkinton, also known as Larry, Dad, PawPaw, Pops, “Mr. Lawrence,” passed away peacefully at home on March 4, 2024, at the age of 76. A native Houstonian, he was born on October 14, 1947, to Antonia Wleczyk and Jesse Cecil Pilkinton. He was one of their nine children which included eight sons and one daughter. Lawrence grew up in Houston, proudly serving his country in the Vietnam War as a combat medic in the 25th Infantry Division, Tropic Lightning, where he received the bronze star medal before returning home to marry Kristine Helene Canino in 1971. Kristine and Lawrence celebrated 52+ years of marriage. Lawrence possessed an incredible work ethic from a very early age and began working at Canino’s Produce amongst many other jobs. At multiple times in his teenage years, he had more than three jobs at the same time. Eventually, he came to help run the Canino business for decades with his brothers-in-law, mother-in-law, and father-in-law. If asked what he did for a living, he said, “I sell produce by the side of the road.” He truly enjoyed being a “businessman”. Lawrence was a resident of Katy, TX for 46 years, where he and Kristine raised their four children and welcomed 11 grandchildren before moving to Richmond, TX. Lawrence was immensely proud of his family. Over the years he had the joy of attending many of his family’s sporting events, theater productions, weddings, graduations, grandparents’ days, and more. He loved God and was a long-time parishioner of St. Bartholomew and then St. Faustina, as well as a proud member of the Sacred Heart Society. He had a love of old westerns (best watched at maximum volume), particularly John Wayne films, as well as golf, basketball, and football. He loved calling his children or friends on the phone while watching sports on tv and providing entertaining commentary. He was a true Astros baseball and University of Houston basketball fan. In his retirement, he learned to relax a little and enjoyed long walks outdoors and to sit by the pool, especially if there were grandchildren and their dogs having fun around him. He will be remembered for his love and devotion to his entire family, his colorful sense of humor and off-the-wall wisdom he liked to impart on those around him, his love of good food, and his signature Hawaiian shirts. As he often said about others, “he was a good man.” He loved his work, wife, kids, grandkids, family, his countless friends, God, and his country. He will be incredibly missed by his family and friends, and his legacy will continue through his children and their families. He was a proud brother, uncle, cousin, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Lawrence is preceded in death by his parents, Antonia and Jesse Pilkinton, his brothers James, Chester, Alvin, Paul, Wayne, Jesse, his brother-in-law Don Matejek, his father-in-law, Joe Canino, and his mother-in-law, Josephine Orlando Hughes and her husband Charles.

He is survived by his brother, Michael, his sister, Dorothy Matejek, his wife Kristine Pilkinton, his brother-in-law Michael Canino, his brother-in-law William Canino and his wife Cynthia. He is survived by Kimberly Pilkinton and son-in-law, Marvin D. Atkins, Jr, and their four children Aidan, Emily, Lauren (namesake), and Caroline; Lawrence Joseph Pilkinton and daughter-in-law Lyndsay Kopp Pilkinton and their three children, Gage Lawrence, Henry, and Tate; Kevin Brian Pilkinton and daughter-in-law Danielle Guerre Pilkinton and their three children, Gavin, Brian, and Katherine; Kristie Pilkinton, her daughter, Mekaela Henry, and her father Yusuf Henry. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces, great-nephews, and more.

View Full Obituary

Billie Ward III - December 21, 1947 - March 02, 2024

Departed: 03/02/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: The Life of Billie Ward lll Billie was born 76 years ago in Oakland, CA to Clotile Mary Sinegar and Billie Ward Jr. He was

raised by his loving grandparents Amile and Maggie Sinegar in Abbeville, LA. Billie attended James A. Herod High School and grew up attending Pleasant Green Baptist

Church. Billie was a chef who got his initial training as a meat cutter at Treasure Island (San Francisco) in 1985. He later went on to become a professional chef shortly after completing his training. He spent most of his career cooking on various oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, until his retirement in

2017. He also traveled the world working as a merchant marine. Chef Billie had great passion for cooking and took pride in every dish he prepared. He absolutely loved cooking for his family and friends and was often asked to prepare a favorite dish or host a special event. He joyfully obliged and often added a special touch to his creations, which gained

the admiration of those he cooked for to his delight. Billie was also a music aficionado and loved many types of music genres, especially jazz (Bebop, Smooth, Cool, and Free). He spent his final hours listening to Louis Armstrong and other jazz music softly playing by his bedside as he transitioned peacefully from this life on

March 2, 2024. Billie spent the last 5 years of his life with his daughter Shemeka Ward

and her partner Billy Alfred. They faithfully loved and cared for his needs until his final days. Billie was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, siblings, Sherleen Jackson and Cary

Proctor, Dianne Hebert Ward wife and mother of his youngest daughters, Shemeka and Tiffany. Billie’s precious memories will forever be cherished by his beloved children: Samantha Ward of Garland, TX, Renee Ward Fleming (Eric) of Myrtle Springs, TX, Edward L. Ward of Abbeville, LA, Billie J. Ward (Tracy) of Richmond, CA, Shemeka D. Ward (Billy) of Cypress, TX and Tiffany Ward of Knoxville, TN; siblings Charles Sinegar of Port Arthur, TX, Sheila Proctor of Elk Grove, CA, Gary Proctor (Sandra) of Rio Vista, CA, Alice Allen (Anthony) of Antioch, CA, and Charles Proctor (Hilary) of Martinez, CA; 16 great grandchildren; 10 grandchildren, as well

as family and friends.

View Full Obituary

Courtney Mims - February 03, 1994 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Courtney Mims.

View Full Obituary

Joshua Taylor - October 20, 1987 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Joshua Taylor.

View Full Obituary

Meeja Kryk - June 27, 1965 - February 03, 2024

Departed: 02/03/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Meeja Kryk was a loving mother, wife, sister, and friend. She has two children, Allyson and Aaron, with her wonderful spouse Jay Kryk. She was a beautiful soul and she was the best mother a child could ever ask for. They travelled the world for many years before settling back in Sugar Land, TX where their journey as a family had begun. She made everywhere they lived feel like home and built a community wherever she went. She was able to do anything she set her mind to and she always did so with grace and unwavering confidence. She was first diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma in October 2013 and she was a fighter until the very end. She was the strongest and smartest woman I knew and will ever know. She had a love of cooking, gardening, playing tennis and pickleball, yoga, and music. She loved hosting gatherings filled with delicious food and spending time with friends and family. Meeja impacted a lot of people throughout her life and she ultimately left the world a better place.

View Full Obituary

Evelyn Acheampong - February 28, 1956 - January 24, 2024

Departed: 01/24/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Evelyn Marie Roberts was born to Walter and Helen Roberts on February 28, 1956, in Opelousas, Louisiana. Evelyn married Emmanuel Acheampong in 1979, and to this union 3 children were born: Emma Acheampong, Matthew Acheampong and Margaret Acheampong Bailey

Evelyn was a retired nurse from Park Plaza Hospital.

On January 24, 2024, Evelyn gained her heavenly wings.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Helen Marie Roberts and Walter Roberts, Sr. Brothers: Noah James Roberts, Michael Roberts, Walter Roberts, Jr. and Sister Linda Gail Charles. She leaves to cherish her memories: Her Siblings: Hetta Jean West (Spouse Steven West), Laura West (Spouse Eddie West), Paul Roberts (Spouse Sho Roberts) Her Children: Emma, Matthew (Fiancée Tameka Dixon), Margaret (Spouse Michael Bailey) Grandchildren: Kapreshia Acheampong, Dorelle Britton Jr, Jahlil Scott, Dylan Johnson, Jacob Johnson, Kiera Johnson

A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

View Full Obituary

Johnathan Fuentes-Silva - March 06, 1996 - January 22, 2024

Departed: 01/22/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Johnathan Fuentes-Silva.

View Full Obituary

Shirley Prince - December 23, 1954 - January 14, 2024

Departed: 01/14/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Shirley Prince.

View Full Obituary

Larry Vasquez Sr - June 08, 1948 - January 09, 2024

Departed: 01/09/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Larry Vasquez Sr.

View Full Obituary

Darryl Stanley Glenn Morris - February 23, 1985 - January 09, 2024

Departed: 01/09/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Darryl Stanley Glenn Morris.

View Full Obituary

Tomasa Cruz Chavez - August 26, 1963 - January 07, 2024

Departed: 01/07/2024 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Tomasa Cruz Chavez, 60 of Richmond, Tx passed away on January 7, 2024. She is preceded in death by her father Nasario Cruz, mother Virginia Cruz & sister Irene Cruz. She left behind her husband & sons Jimmy Sr, Jimmy Jr, Steven Ray & Zachary Cruz Chavez as well as 7 grandchildren and her brothers and sisters. She will be deeply missed by all of her loved ones. May she Rest in Peace.

View Full Obituary

LV Wayne Dixon Jr - January 18, 1950 - December 11, 2023

Departed: 12/11/2023 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for LV Wayne Dixon Jr.

View Full Obituary

Helen Hall - June 25, 1954 - December 05, 2023

Departed: 12/05/2023 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Helen Hall.

View Full Obituary

Tomas Leal - January 23, 1974 - December 01, 2023

Departed: 12/01/2023 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Tomas Leal.

View Full Obituary

Kelvin Christian - December 21, 1984 - November 28, 2023

Departed: 11/28/2023 (Richmond)

Obituary Preview: Known for his unwavering devotion as a son, brother, father, friend, and remarkable businessman, Kelvin was the backbone of his entire family. His love, easy demeanor, and dignified presence made a difference in everything he did and everywhere he went.

Born December 21, 1984, to Carmen Christian-Aye and Adetayo Ketiku, Kelvin Dion Christian was the eldest of three children. He was Baptized at Hill Chapel CME Church in Plano, Texas. He rededicated his life to Christ as a young man at The Church Without Walls in Houston, Texas. Kelvin remained a member until his passing on November 28, 2023.

Kelvin began his early education in the Alief and Cypress Fairbanks Public Schools, where he was active in Football, Basketball and Track & Field. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue a degree in Business Administration/Marketing at Prairie View A&M University. He owned and operated several successful businesses in the Houston area.

Kelvin will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his father, AdetayoKetiku, Grandfather Roy Lee Christian, Sr. and Uncle Roy Lee Christian, Jr. He is survived by his mother, Carmen Christian-Aye, father Taiwo Aye, Children, Kelcie Anijah (Anjal Carter), Khalie Ann, Kendal Jade and Kelvin Dion, Jr. (Chrystal Mosley). Also left to mourn are Sisters Cristine Aye and Christabel Aye-Taiwo (Osamudian), Brother Christiansen Aye, Grandparents Larry and Carol Kirkland and Bernice Akinmade, Uncles Reggie Christian (Coleen), Larry Kirkland II, Tayo Ketiku, Boye Ketiku, Sylvester Aye (Nosa), Nosa Aye (Kimberly), and Fuluyi Aye. Aunts Dawn Kirkland, Yetunde Ashiru, DiekololaVanderpuye and Meghan Porter (Anthony). He is also survived by long-term partner, Ersula White, nieces, nephews, special family Anneisha Christian-Hall, Brianna Kirkland, Alexia Kirkland, Bola Ketiku, many other loving Cousins, Great Aunts, Great Uncles, family members, and lifelong friends.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Personalized Funeral Services

Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors understands that every life is precious and unique, and that each family deserves a personalized farewell that honors their loved one's memory. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, the funeral home offers a range of options to suit every family's preferences and budget. Their experienced funeral directors work closely with families to create a customized tribute that reflects the personality, interests, and achievements of their loved one.

A Commitment to Community

Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors is deeply rooted in the Richmond community and is committed to giving back to the people they serve. Through various outreach programs, charitable initiatives, and educational resources, the funeral home demonstrates its dedication to supporting local families during times of need. From bereavement support groups to community events, Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors is a trusted partner in the Richmond community.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The funeral home's facilities at 1201 Preston St., Richmond, TX, 77469, are designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families to gather, reflect, and celebrate the lives of their loved ones. The spacious chapels, visitation rooms, and reception areas are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities to ensure that every family feels comfortable and supported throughout the funeral process.

Pre-Planning Services

Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors recognizes the importance of pre-planning in alleviating the emotional and financial burden on families during difficult times. Their experienced funeral directors offer guidance and support in planning ahead, helping individuals make informed decisions about their final arrangements and ensuring that their wishes are respected. By pre-planning with Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors, families can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their loved one's farewell will be handled with dignity and care.

Bereavement Support

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors is committed to supporting families through the grieving process. The funeral home offers a range of bereavement resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online grief tools. Their compassionate staff is always available to offer guidance, comfort, and reassurance as families navigate the journey of healing.

Awards and Accolades

Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors' commitment to excellence has earned them numerous awards and accolades within the funeral industry. From prestigious national recognitions to local community awards, this esteemed funeral home continues to demonstrate its dedication to providing exceptional service and care to the families it serves.

Contacting Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors

If you're seeking compassionate care, personalized attention, and exceptional service during a difficult time, look no further than Rodney F Byrd Funeral Directors. Located at 1201 Preston St., Richmond, TX, 77469, this trusted funeral home is always available to provide guidance, support, and comfort. Contact them today to learn more about their services or to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced funeral directors.

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 surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

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 can be a therapeutic way for loved ones to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the family of the deceased or a close friend will write the obituary. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also offer assistance with writing and publishing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary should include the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, and any notable achievements or accomplishments. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and to the point. Aim for around 150-200 words, depending on the publication's guidelines.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

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

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

Contact the publication directly to find out their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some publications may have online forms or email addresses where you can submit the obituary, while others may require you to visit their office in person.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for longer notices.

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

This depends on the publication's policies. Some may allow corrections or revisions, while others may not. It's best to proofread carefully before submitting the obituary to avoid errors.

What if I want to publish an obituary in multiple newspapers or online platforms?

You'll need to submit the obituary separately to each publication, following their individual guidelines and deadlines. You may also consider using an online obituary platform that allows you to publish the notice across multiple sites simultaneously.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary as a way to reflect on their life and legacy. This can be a unique opportunity to tell your own story and ensure that your wishes are respected after your passing.

What is a death notice versus an obituary?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed notice that provides additional biographical information and context.

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 include stories, quotes, or humorous moments that capture their personality and spirit.

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

The timeframe varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online publications may publish the obituary immediately or within hours, while print newspapers may take several days or even weeks.

Can I request changes to an existing obituary template?

If you're working with a funeral home or mortuary, they may have standard templates for obituaries. However, you can certainly ask if they can make modifications to accommodate your needs or preferences.

What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be overwhelming. If you're unsure about what to include or how to structure the notice, consider consulting with a funeral director, family member, or close friend for guidance.

Can I include links or URLs in an online obituary?

This depends on the publication's policies. Some online platforms may allow links to memorial websites, social media profiles, or charity donation pages, while others may not.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?

Double-check all facts and details before submitting the obituary. Verify dates, names, and spellings with family members or official documents to avoid errors.

What if I want to publish an anonymous or private obituary?

This is possible in some cases. Contact the publication directly to discuss options for anonymous or private notices. Keep in mind that some publications may have restrictions or requirements for these types of notices.

Can I republish an old obituary from years ago?

This depends on the publication's archives and policies. You may be able to find archived copies of old newspapers or online notices through libraries or genealogy websites.

Are there any specific rules or regulations for writing an obituary?

While there are no hard-and-fast rules, it's generally considered respectful to follow traditional guidelines for tone, content, and format. Additionally, be mindful of any local laws or regulations regarding death announcements and notifications.

Can I use social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing news of a loved one's passing and connecting with friends and family. You can share a link to the online obituary or create your own post with details about the person's life and legacy.

What if I'm struggling emotionally while writing an obituary?

This is completely normal! Writing an obituary can be a difficult and emotional task. Take your time, seek support from loved ones if needed, and remember that it's okay to show emotions in your writing.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's personality or legacy.

How do I handle corrections or mistakes in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication directly as soon as possible to report any errors. They will work with you to correct the mistake and republish the revised notice.