Losing a loved one is never easy, and navigating the process of planning a funeral, writing an obituary, and saying goodbye can be overwhelming. In Decatur, IL, the Herald & Review has been a trusted source for obituaries and local news for over 140 years. This guide will walk you through the process of finding and submitting obituaries to the Herald & Review, as well as provide some helpful tips and resources for those dealing with loss.
Finding Obituaries in the Herald & Review
The Herald & Review publishes obituaries daily, both in print and online. You can find the most recent obituaries on their website, . From the homepage, click on the "Obituaries" tab at the top of the page, and then select "Today's Obituaries" or "Archives" to search for specific obituaries.
You can also search for obituaries by name, date range, or location. The Herald & Review also offers a free email newsletter that will send you the latest obituaries directly to your inbox.
How to Submit an Obituary to the Herald & Review
If you need to submit an obituary to the Herald & Review, there are several ways to do so. Here are the steps:
- Contact a Funeral Home: The Herald & Review recommends working with a local funeral home to submit an obituary. Funeral homes will typically handle the submission process for you.
- Submit Online: You can also submit an obituary online through the Herald & Review's website. Click on the "Obituaries" tab, then select "Submit an Obituary" and follow the prompts.
- Contact the Herald & Review Directly: If you prefer to submit an obituary directly to the Herald & Review, you can call their obituary desk at (217) 421-6900 or email .
What to Include in an Obituary
When writing an obituary, it's essential to include the following information:
- Full Name: The deceased person's full name, including any nicknames or aliases.
- Age: The deceased person's age at the time of passing.
- Residence: The deceased person's city and state of residence.
- Date of Passing: The date of the deceased person's passing.
- Survivors: A list of surviving family members, including spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings.
- Preceded in Death: A list of family members who predeceased the deceased person.
- Funeral Arrangements: Information about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, location, and officiant.
- Memorials: Information about any memorial funds or charities that the family would like to support.
Example of an Obituary
Here is an example of what an obituary might look like:
"John Doe, 75, of Decatur, IL, passed away on February 10, 2023, at his home. He was born on August 12, 1947, in Springfield, IL, to the late James and Mary Doe. John is survived by his wife, Jane; children, Michael (Susan) and Emily (David); and grandchildren, Jack and Lily. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, James. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on February 14, 2023, at the First Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Smith officiating. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society."
Tips for Writing an Obituary
Writing an obituary can be a difficult task, especially during a time of grief. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be Clear and Concise: Make sure to include all the necessary information, but keep the obituary concise and to the point.
- Use a Respectful Tone: Use a respectful and dignified tone when writing the obituary.
- Include a Photo: Consider including a photo of the deceased person to make the obituary more personal.
- Proofread: Carefully proofread the obituary to ensure that all the information is accurate and there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Resources for Those Dealing with Loss
Losing a loved one can be a difficult and emotional experience. Here are some resources that may be helpful:
- Grief Counseling: Many hospitals, hospices, and funeral homes offer grief counseling services.
- Support Groups: Joining a support group can be a great way to connect with others who have experienced a similar loss.
- Online Resources: There are many online resources available, including the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and the American Cancer Society.
Conclusion
Losing a loved one is never easy, but with the right resources and support, it can be a little more bearable. The Herald & Review is committed to providing accurate and timely obituary information to the Decatur, IL community. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your loved one's obituary is published correctly and with dignity.
How do I submit an obituary to the Herald & Review?
+You can submit an obituary to the Herald & Review by contacting a local funeral home, submitting online through their website, or by contacting their obituary desk directly.
What information should I include in an obituary?
+An obituary should include the deceased person's full name, age, residence, date of passing, survivors, preceded in death, funeral arrangements, and memorials.
How can I find obituaries in the Herald & Review?
+You can find obituaries in the Herald & Review by visiting their website, , and searching for obituaries by name, date range, or location.