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About West Wood Street Funeral Home
Located at 515 West Wood Street, Decatur, IL, 62522, West Wood Street Funeral Home is a trusted and compassionate provider of funeral services to the local community. With a deep understanding of the importance of honoring loved ones, the funeral home offers a range of personalized services to help families say goodbye with dignity and respect.
A History of Compassionate Care
West Wood Street Funeral Home has a long history of serving the Decatur community with kindness, empathy, and professionalism. The funeral home's experienced staff is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to families during their time of need. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorial gatherings, the funeral home's team is committed to helping families create meaningful and lasting tributes to their loved ones.
West Wood Street
Funeral Obiturary Search
Recent Funeral Home Obituaries
Justine F. Bratcher - January 22, 1927 - December 11, 2023
Dr. Charles O. Stanley - December 29, 1925 - November 27, 2023
Patrick A. Smallwood Sr. - January 20, 1933 - November 19, 2023
Samuel James Fakes - May 19, 1938 - November 13, 2023
George A. Baum - April 05, 1929 - November 05, 2023
Gerald C. "Jerry" Sheehan - November 05, 1929 - August 22, 2023
Michael Troy Littrell - May 23, 1980 - June 15, 2023
Carrie Diane Hays - March 11, 1959 - June 11, 2023
John Stengel - January 22, 1930 - June 08, 2023
Robert Eugene Cox - January 07, 1944 - May 21, 2023
Cynthia Lynne Harding - March 12, 1958 - March 14, 2023
Mary Lou "Buckley" Daniels - May 10, 1936 - March 03, 2023
Gary W. Beaman - September 15, 1940 - February 01, 2023
Richard Curtis Gilman - October 13, 1945 - January 07, 2023
Laurine "Sue" Ribley - January 23, 1942 - December 27, 2022
Gary Casner, Sr. - October 28, 1946 - December 26, 2022
Katherine A. Morenz - March 21, 1958 - December 23, 2022
Mary Lou Carrigan - November 02, 1928 - November 20, 2022
Melody Ann Dickman - January 02, 1952 - November 16, 2022
Mary Ann Childs - August 09, 1951 - November 10, 2022
Linda Lou Schepper - December 14, 1933 - October 25, 2022
Mary A. Cunningham - December 31, 1935 - October 19, 2022
Mary Katherine Howard - February 10, 1929 - October 14, 2022
Bonnie Jo Yates - December 21, 1948 - October 11, 2022
Carol Ann Price - September 10, 1951 - October 09, 2022
Personalized Funeral Services
At West Wood Street Funeral Home, every family is treated with the utmost care and respect. The funeral home's staff takes the time to listen to each family's unique needs and preferences, working closely with them to create personalized funeral services that reflect the life and legacy of their loved one. From choosing a casket or urn to selecting music and flowers, the funeral home's team is dedicated to ensuring that every detail is carefully considered and executed.
Cremation Services
In addition to traditional funeral services, West Wood Street Funeral Home also offers a range of cremation options for families who prefer this type of disposition. The funeral home's staff is knowledgeable about the cremation process and can guide families through their choices, from direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service. The funeral home also offers a variety of urns and keepsakes to help families honor their loved ones in a meaningful way.
Pre-Planning Options
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West Wood Street Funeral Home understands that planning ahead can be a wise decision for many families. By pre-planning funeral arrangements, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, while also alleviating some of the burden on their loved ones. The funeral home's staff is happy to discuss pre-planning options with individuals and families, providing guidance and support throughout the process.
Facilities and Amenities
The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families and friends to gather. The spacious chapel can accommodate large groups, while smaller rooms are available for more intimate gatherings. The funeral home also offers amenities such as audio-visual equipment, catering services, and ample parking to ensure that every family's needs are met.
Community Involvement
West Wood Street Funeral Home is deeply committed to the Decatur community, actively participating in local events and supporting organizations that benefit area residents. The funeral home's staff believes in giving back to the community that has supported them over the years, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.
Supporting Families Through Grief
Losing a loved one can be one of life's most difficult experiences, but West Wood Street Funeral Home is committed to supporting families through their grief journey. The funeral home offers resources and guidance to help families navigate the healing process, from bereavement support groups to online grief resources. The funeral home's staff understands that grieving is a unique and individual experience, and they are dedicated to providing compassionate care and support 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 may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and surviving relatives.
What is the purpose of an obituary?
The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing and to provide details about their life and legacy. It also serves as a way to share memories and celebrate the deceased person's life.
Who writes an obituary?
Obituaries are typically written by family members, close friends, or funeral home staff. In some cases, a professional writer or journalist may be hired to write 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, military service, hobbies, achievements, and surviving relatives. It may also include information about the funeral or memorial service.
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. However, some online obituary platforms allow for longer or more detailed tributes.
Can I include photos in an obituary?
Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more engaging.
How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?
You can usually submit an obituary through the newspaper's website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Online platforms often have a submission form or process that guides you through the posting of the obituary.
How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals. Online platforms may offer free or paid options with varying levels of features and services.
Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?
In most cases, it's possible to make corrections or edits to an obituary after it's been published. However, this may depend on the publication or platform's policies and procedures.
How long does it take for an obituary to be published?
The time it takes for an obituary to be published can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online platforms usually publish obituaries immediately or within a few hours of submission.
Can I write my own obituary?
Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance. This can ensure that their life story is told in their own words and can also serve as a therapeutic exercise.
What is a self-written obituary called?
A self-written obituary is sometimes referred to as a "self-obit" or "autobit."
Is it appropriate to include humorous anecdotes in an obituary?
Yes, including humorous stories or anecdotes can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased person and make the obituary more engaging and relatable.
Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?
Yes, quotes, poems, or other literary pieces can add depth and meaning to an obituary. They can also help convey the person's values, interests, or sense of humor.
What is a memorial donation in lieu of flowers?
A memorial donation in lieu of flowers is a request made by the family or loved ones of the deceased person for mourners to make a charitable donation in their memory instead of sending flowers.
How do I find an old obituary?
You can try searching online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites. Local libraries or historical societies may also have archives of old newspapers that can be searched manually.
Can I republish an old obituary online?
You may need to obtain permission from the original publisher or copyright holder before republishing an old obituary online. However, many online platforms allow you to share links to archived obituaries.
What is a death notice?
A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing that typically includes only basic information such as their name, age, and date of death. It may not include as much detail as a full obituary.
What is the difference between a death notice and an obituary?
A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, while an obituary is a more detailed tribute that celebrates their life and legacy.
Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for many years?
Yes, you can still write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for many years. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and share their story with others.
How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary?
Contact the publication or platform where the obituary was published and report the error. They will usually correct the mistake and republish the revised obituary.
Can I use social media to share an obituary?
Yes, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be used to share links to online obituaries or post brief tributes and condolences.
Is it appropriate to include personal messages or condolences in an obituary?
No, personal messages or condolences are usually expressed separately from the official obituary. The focus of an obituary should be on celebrating the life and legacy of the deceased person.
Can I create a video tribute or slideshow for an online obituary?
Yes, many online platforms allow you to upload videos, photos, or create slideshows to accompany the written tribute.
How long do online obituaries remain available?
This varies depending on the platform or website. Some online obituaries remain available indefinitely, while others may be archived after a certain period of time.