Find an obituary for a specific person

General
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find an obituary for a specific person

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Find an obituary for a specific person

When searching for an obituary for a specific person, there are several effective methods to consider, each leveraging various resources and strategies:

1. Online Obituary Databases

There are several online databases specifically dedicated to hosting obituaries. Websites like Legacy.com, Tributes.com, and MyHeritage offer comprehensive databases where you can search by name, location, and sometimes approximate dates of death.

2. Local Newspapers and Archives

Local newspapers often publish obituaries. If you know the location where the person lived or passed away, check the website of the local newspaper. Many newspapers also keep digital archives, which can be accessed online or by visiting the newspaper’s office or local library.

3. Genealogy Websites

Websites such as Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org offer extensive collections of historical records, including obituaries. These sites often require a subscription, but they can be invaluable for conducting detailed searches.

4. Funeral Home Websites

Many funeral homes publish obituaries on their websites. If you know which funeral home handled the services for the person, you can visit their website or contact them directly.

5. Public Libraries and Local Historical Societies

Public libraries often have archives of local newspapers and may offer access to databases not available to the general public. Local historical societies also preserve records and can be a rich resource for finding obituaries, especially for older dates.

6. Cemetery Records

Cemeteries keep records of those buried at their locations, and these records often include obituaries. If you know where the person was buried, contacting the cemetery can provide useful information.

7. Social Media and Online Memorials

Platforms like Facebook and websites like ForeverMissed.com host online memorials where family and friends can share obituaries and memories.

Example Search Process

  1. Gather Initial Information:

    • Full name of the deceased person
    • Approximate date of death
    • Last known location (city, state, or country)

  2. Begin Your Search:

    • Start with a broad search on general databases like Legacy.com or Tributes.com with the information you have.
    • Narrow down your search by visiting local newspaper sites or directly searching their obituary sections.

  3. Visit Specific Sites:

    • If you know the name of the funeral home, check their website.
    • Use genealogy sites for more historical records.

  4. Check Libraries and Historical Societies:

    • Visit local libraries’ digital collections or historical societies’ archives if the online search yields too many broad results or nothing at all.

By leveraging these multiple avenues, you can increase your chances of finding a specific obituary effectively and comprehensively.

Feel free to provide specific details or questions if you need more targeted assistance in your search!