Obituaries are more than just announcements of a death; they’re lasting tributes to a life lived and a valuable record of community history. They offer important information for genealogy and a glimpse into the past.
This guide will help you find and understand obituaries in Wilkes-Barre, including how to access archived obituaries Wilkes-Barre.
Accessing Wilkes-Barre Obituary Archives
If you’re looking for an obituary from Wilkes-Barre, there are a few places you can look.
Online Resources
Sites like Legacy.com often host obituaries that have run in various newspapers. Also, local newspaper websites such as the Times Leader and Citizens’ Voice may have searchable archives.
To search these websites, use keywords like “obituary,” along with “Wilkes-Barre” and the name of the person you’re looking for. If you know the approximate date the person died, you can filter by date to narrow your search.
Libraries and Historical Societies
Local libraries and historical societies often collect obituaries. The Osterhout Free Library in Wilkes-Barre and the Luzerne County Historical Society may both have records you can access.
You can visit these resources in person, or you can contact them online or by phone to ask about their obituary indexes and databases.
What do obituaries tell us?
Obituaries usually include:
- Biographical information, such as birthdates, education, and career details.
- Family information, including spouses, children, and parents.
- Achievements and contributions to the community.
Beyond the personal details, obituaries also reflect the values and norms of their time, offering insights into local events and community life. They also serve as tributes to the deceased.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to find out if someone died with no obituary free?
Finding death information without an obituary can be tricky, but not impossible. Start by checking social media – family members often post announcements there. You can also search online death records databases, which are often free to use, though some may require a subscription for full access. Contacting local funeral homes in the Wilkes-Barre area is another avenue; they might have records even if an obituary wasn’t published. Finally, consider searching government records, though this can be more time-consuming.
Do all deaths have to be published?
No, publishing an obituary is not a legal requirement. It’s a personal choice made by the family. Many families choose to publish obituaries as a way to announce the passing and share information about memorial services. Others may opt for a private service or simply choose not to publish anything publicly for personal reasons. Ultimately, it’s up to the family’s discretion.
How do I find an obituary by last name?
To find an obituary by last name, start by using online obituary search engines. Most of these sites allow you to filter results by last name and often location, such as Wilkes-Barre. Local newspaper websites, like the Times Leader or The Citizens’ Voice, also have obituary sections where you can search by name. If you know the approximate date of death, that will help narrow down your search. Don’t forget to check the websites of local funeral homes as well, as they often maintain their own archives of obituaries.
Summary
Whether you’re researching your family history or want to know more about the community, Wilkes-Barre obituaries are a valuable resource. You can find them online, in libraries, and in historical society archives. Remember to consider both the content and the historical context. Obituaries preserve memories and provide information for future generations.