Obituaries announce someone’s passing, often including a brief biography and service information. Local obituaries are an important part of community news, connecting people by sharing news of those who have died in Joliet.
Where to find Joliet obituaries
Today, most people start their search for obituaries online. Here are some things to know about finding them.
Online Resources
Many local news websites and obituary-specific sites offer searchable databases of obituaries that have appeared in the Joliet, Illinois area. The search functions on these sites make it easy to locate specific obituaries.
One of the best things about online access is the convenience. Distant relatives and friends can access the information from anywhere. It’s also easy to share links through social media or email.
Traditional Sources
Of course, you can always check local newspapers for obituary listings. Some people still prefer this method.
Keep in mind that print newspapers may not be as easy to access or search as online resources, especially if you’re looking for someone who passed away some time ago.
What information is included in an obituary?
Obituaries usually include details such as:
- The deceased’s full name, age, and date of death
- Biographical information, like where they were born, how far they went in school, and their job history
- The names of their family members, including their spouse, children, and grandchildren
- Information about the funeral or memorial service
This information gives a full picture of their life and lets friends and family know how to pay their respects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find an obituary by last name?
Many online obituary databases and newspaper websites allow you to search specifically by last name. Try using the search function on sites like Legacy.com, or the website of the local Joliet newspaper. You can also try variations of the last name in case of spelling errors or hyphenated names. Adding a first name or initial will narrow down your results.
How to find out if someone died if there’s no obituary?
If you can’t find an obituary, there are other ways to check if someone has passed away. You can try searching public records databases, which often contain death records. Social Security Death Index (SSDI) is a free resource. You can also contact local funeral homes directly in the Joliet area to inquire if they handled the arrangements. Sometimes, word-of-mouth within the community can also provide information.
How can I read an obituary for free?
Many online obituary websites offer basic access for free. However, some sites may require a subscription for premium features or to view older obituaries. Check the websites of local Joliet newspapers, as they often provide free access to recent obituaries. Libraries are also a great resource, as they often have access to online databases and newspaper archives.
Why is there no obituary for someone?
There are several reasons why an obituary might not be published. The family may have chosen not to publish one for privacy reasons. It’s also possible that the death occurred recently and the obituary is still being prepared. Or, the family may have opted for a private service without a public announcement. In some cases, the death may have occurred in another location, and the obituary was published elsewhere.
Closing Thoughts
Obituaries are an important part of the Joliet community, providing a way to remember and honor our friends, neighbors, and family members.
Whether you’re looking online or in print, be sure to take advantage of the available resources to find and share obituaries.
By remembering those who have passed, we keep their memories alive and celebrate the lives they lived in Joliet.