An obituary is a public announcement of someone’s death. It’s usually a short life story, and it lets people know about funeral arrangements or memorial services.
In a place like Amarillo, TX, obituaries connect us to our local history and the people who shaped our community. The Amarillo Globe-News is often the first place people look for these announcements.
This guide will help you find, understand, and even write an obituary in Amarillo, TX, whether you’re looking to remember someone or need to create an obituary yourself.
Finding Obituaries in Amarillo, TX: A Comprehensive Guide
When you’re looking for information about someone who has recently passed away in Amarillo, Texas, obituaries can be a valuable resource. Here’s how to find them.
Online Resources for Amarillo Obituaries
- Amarillo Globe-News website. The Amarillo Globe-News often has an obituary section on its website. You can usually search by name, date, or keyword to find the obituary you’re looking for. They may also have archives available for older obituaries.
- National obituary databases. Sites like Legacy.com and Obituaries.com often aggregate obituaries from various sources, including Amarillo. These can provide broader search results and allow you to leave online condolences.
- Funeral home websites in Amarillo. Many funeral homes post obituaries for the services they’re handling. For example, you might check the websites for “Smith Family Funeral Home” (hypothetical link), “Brown & Daughters Funeral Chapel” (hypothetical link), or “Amarillo Memorial Gardens Funeral Home” (hypothetical link).
Traditional Newspaper Obituaries
- Amarillo Globe-News (print edition). The Amarillo Globe-News also publishes obituaries in its print edition. Keep in mind publication schedules and deadlines, which can affect when an obituary appears. Contact the Globe-News directly for information on accessing back issues, if available.
Compared to online options, newspaper obituaries may have space constraints, and there may be a cost associated with publishing them. They may also be published later than online postings.
What goes into an obituary?
Obituaries can vary quite a bit depending on the family’s wishes and the policies of the publication where the obituary will run. But most obituaries contain similar information.
Key elements of a standard obituary
- The deceased’s full name, age, and date of death. Spelling counts, so be sure you have the correct spelling of the full name.
- The place of death, including city and state. If you wish, you can add details about the circumstances of the death, but that’s optional.
- A brief biography that highlights significant life events and accomplishments. Be sure to include the date and place of birth, along with education, career details, and hobbies.
- Information about the family, including the names of a surviving spouse, children, grandchildren, and so on. If you want, you can also list family members who died before the deceased.
- Details about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location. Be sure to include the name and address of the funeral home or church. You can also indicate whether the service is open to the public.
- Information about memorial contributions, if the family wishes to suggest them. List the name of the charity or organization, along with instructions on how to make a donation.
Optional elements and personal touches
Many families choose to add a photograph of the deceased. Try to pick a recent photo that shows them as they were. You can also add quotes or anecdotes that show the deceased’s personality, as long as the tone is respectful and appropriate. Don’t forget to include information about hobbies, interests, and passions to paint a more complete picture of the person’s life.
Writing an Obituary: Tips and Guidelines
Writing an obituary can be a difficult task, especially when you’re grieving. Here are some tips to help you craft a meaningful tribute.
Gathering Information and Planning the Obituary
Before you start writing, collect essential details from family members and close friends. Double-check dates, names, and other facts to ensure accuracy. Decide on the tone and length of the obituary, considering the deceased’s personality and preferences. Do you want to focus on accomplishments, personal qualities, or both? It’s important to strike a balance between factual information and emotional expression.
Crafting the Obituary
Start with a clear and concise statement of death, using respectful and dignified language. Write a brief but engaging biography, highlighting key life events and achievements. Include personal anecdotes and memories, if desired, to add warmth and personality to the obituary. Provide accurate and complete funeral service details, double-checking the date, time, and location. Finally, proofread carefully for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Ask a friend or family member to review the obituary as well.
Submitting the Obituary to the Amarillo Globe-News and Online Platforms
Understand the submission guidelines and deadlines for the Amarillo Globe-News and any online platforms you’re considering. Contact the newspaper or website for specific instructions. Be aware of any associated costs and inquire about pricing and payment options. Consider posting the obituary on multiple platforms for wider reach, balancing cost with desired visibility.
How much does an obituary cost in Amarillo, TX?
Several things affect the price of an obituary:
- Length: Most publications charge by the word or line.
- Photos: Adding a photograph of the deceased usually increases the cost.
- Publication day: Some days are more expensive than others.
- Online vs. print: Online-only obituaries are sometimes less expensive.
The Amarillo Globe-News typically charges per word or per line, with extra fees for photos and special formatting.
To keep costs down, try these tips:
- Write a short, focused obituary.
- Consider publishing online only.
- Look into free online memorial pages.
Grief Resources and Support in Amarillo, TX
Losing someone is never easy. Here are a few resources that can help you navigate your grief:
- Local Grief Counseling: Consider reaching out to therapists like Sarah Miller, LPC, or organizations such as the Amarillo Grief Support Center (hypothetical).
- Support Groups: Connect with others who understand your loss through groups like the “Healing Hearts” group (hypothetical) at St. Anthony’s Church.
- National Organizations: Resources like the Grief Recovery Method and the National Alliance for Grieving Children offer valuable support and information.
Remember, it’s important to reach out to family, friends, or professionals during this difficult time. You don’t have to go through it alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I find an obituary of someone who died?
There are a few reasons why you might not find an obituary. Not all families choose to publish one, often due to personal preference or cost considerations. There might also be a delay between the death and the publication of the obituary. Finally, the obituary might be published in a less common location, such as a smaller local paper or a funeral home website that isn’t easily indexed by search engines.
How can I read an obituary for free?
Many online obituary platforms, including those run by funeral homes and newspapers, offer free access to obituaries. You can often find them by searching the person’s name and location online. However, some archival sites may require a subscription for older obituaries. Public libraries sometimes have access to these subscription services, so that is another free option.
Is an obituary public?
Yes, obituaries are generally considered public records. They are intended to share information about a person’s life and death with the community. However, the amount of detail included is at the discretion of the family. While the core information is public, families can choose what personal details to share.
How do I find an obituary by name?
The easiest way to find an obituary by name is to use online search engines. Type the person’s full name, along with any relevant information like their city or state (e.g., “John Doe Amarillo TX obituary”). You can also try searching specific funeral home websites in the area where the person lived, as many funeral homes maintain online archives of obituaries they’ve handled.
To Conclude
Obituaries are a lasting way to remember and celebrate the lives of people who have died. Whether you’re trying to find an obituary in Amarillo, TX, understand the information provided, or write an obituary yourself, remember the power of remembrance and the importance of community support during times of loss.