Obituaries are a valuable resource for genealogical research and for honoring the memory of loved ones who have passed away. In the past, finding obituaries required visiting libraries or newspaper offices. However, with the advent of the internet, searching for obituaries has become much easier and more convenient. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to search for obituaries online.
1. Start with Online Newspaper Archives
Many newspapers have digitized their archives and made them available online. Start your search by visiting the websites of local newspapers in the area where the deceased person lived or where their funeral was held. Look for a section dedicated to obituaries or a search bar where you can enter the name of the deceased.
2. Utilize Obituary Search Engines
There are several obituary search engines that aggregate obituaries from various sources and make them searchable in one place. These search engines often allow you to filter results by location, date, or specific keywords. Some popular obituary search engines include Legacy.com, Tributes.com, and Obituaries.com.
3. Check Funeral Home Websites
Funeral homes often publish obituaries on their websites as a way to inform the community about upcoming services. If you know the name of the funeral home that handled the arrangements, visit their website and look for an obituaries section. You may also be able to search for obituaries by name or date.
4. Explore Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms have become a popular way for people to share news and information, including obituaries. Search for the name of the deceased on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You may find posts or memorial pages dedicated to the person, which could include obituary information.
5. Join Online Genealogy Forums
Online genealogy forums and message boards are excellent resources for connecting with other researchers and obtaining obituary information. Join forums that focus on the area where the deceased person lived or on the specific surname you are researching. Post a query asking for assistance in finding obituaries, and fellow researchers may be able to provide valuable leads.
6. Consider Paid Obituary Databases
Some websites offer access to extensive databases of obituaries for a fee. These databases often include obituaries from multiple sources and can be particularly useful if you are conducting in-depth genealogical research. Examples of paid obituary databases include Ancestry.com and NewspaperArchive.com.
Remember to be as specific as possible when searching for obituaries online. Use the full name of the deceased, along with any known variations or nicknames. Include the location and approximate date of death if available. Additionally, keep in mind that not all obituaries may be available online, especially for older records. In such cases, you may need to consult physical archives or reach out to local libraries for assistance.
Searching for obituaries online can be a time-saving and efficient way to find valuable information about your ancestors or to pay tribute to a loved one. By utilizing the various resources and techniques outlined in this blog post, you can enhance your chances of locating the obituaries you are looking for.
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