Finding Comfort and Remembering the Departed: Burlington Free Press Obituaries

Introduction

In the tapestry of life, death leaves an inevitable thread, and the passing of our loved ones marks a profound chapter. Obituaries, published in local newspapers, provide a platform to honor their memory, commemorate their lives, and offer solace to those they left behind. Among the most respected sources for obituaries is the Burlington Free Press, a leading news organization in Vermont.

The Significance of Obituaries

Obituaries serve several vital purposes:

• Preserving Memories: They offer a written tribute to the deceased, documenting their uniqueness, accomplishments, and cherished relationships.
• Informing the Community: Obituaries announce the passing of individuals and provide details about funeral arrangements, allowing friends and family to pay their respects.
• Offering Condolences: They provide a space for loved ones to express their sympathy and share their recollections of the departed.
• Celebrating Life: While acknowledging the loss, obituaries often focus on the joy and love that the deceased brought to the world, providing a sense of closure and celebration.

Burlington Free Press Obituaries

The Burlington Free Press publishes obituaries daily, both in print and online. These obituaries cover a wide range of individuals from all walks of life, reflecting the diverse tapestry of the local community.

Finding Obituaries

To access obituaries published in the Burlington Free Press, there are several options:

• Online Database: The newspaper maintains an online database where obituaries can be searched by name, date, or location.
• Printed Edition: Obituaries are published in the daily printed edition of the Burlington Free Press.
• Funeral Home Websites: Many funeral homes publish obituaries of their clients on their websites, often with links to the Burlington Free Press versions.

Submitting an Obituary

To submit an obituary for publication in the Burlington Free Press, families or funeral homes can follow these steps:

1. Contact the Obituary Desk: Call the newspaper's obituary desk at (802) 660-1849 or email obits@bfp.com.
2. Provide Required Information: The obituary should include the following:
   • Full name of the deceased
   • Date of birth and death
   • City and state of residence
   • Survivors
   • Funeral arrangements
   • Memorial donations (optional)
3. Review and Approval: The obituary will be reviewed by the Burlington Free Press staff for accuracy and adherence to publication guidelines. Once approved, it will be published both in print and online.

Tips for Composing an Obituary

Crafting an obituary that effectively captures the essence of the deceased and provides meaningful information can be daunting. Here are some tips to consider:

• Start with the Basics: Begin with the deceased's full name, date of birth and death, and city and state of residence.
• Highlight Relationships: List immediate family members, including spouse, children, grandchildren, and siblings. Consider mentioning close friends or significant others.
• Share Accomplishments: Briefly summarize the deceased's professional, educational, or community achievements.
• Include Hobbies and Interests: Mention activities, hobbies, or organizations that brought joy to the deceased's life.
• Use Personal Anecdotes: Share a brief anecdote or memory that reflects the deceased's personality or impact on others.
• End with a Touching Note: Conclude with a brief reflection or message expressing love and remembrance.

Sample Obituary

John William Smith

John William Smith, 85, of Burlington, Vermont, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on March 9, 1937, in Montpelier, Vermont, to James and Mary Smith. He graduated from Montpelier High School and later served in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, John worked as a mechanic for over 40 years before retiring in 2002.

John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, spending countless hours enjoying the outdoors with his family and friends. John was also a skilled woodworker and enjoyed creating beautiful pieces that his family will cherish for generations to come.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Smith; children, Susan Smith (John) and David Smith (Lisa); grandchildren, Emily Smith, Sarah Smith, and James Smith; and sister, Anne Jones.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at St. Mark's Catholic Church, 1251 North Avenue, Burlington. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Vermont Foodbank, 33 Park Street, Burlington, VT 05401.

Effective Strategies for Coping with Grief

The loss of a loved one can trigger a profound sense of grief and sorrow. Here are some effective strategies for coping with the pain:

• Allow Yourself to Grieve: Don't suppress or deny your emotions. Allow yourself time to process the loss and experience the full range of emotions that accompany it.
• Talk About Your Feelings: Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted friends, family members, or a therapist. Talking can help you make sense of your emotions and find support.
• Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
• Find Meaning in Loss: While it may be difficult to see in the midst of grief, try to find meaning or purpose in the loss. Consider volunteering, creating something in memory of your loved one, or seeking solace in spiritual practices.
• Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling to cope with grief, don't hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance and support as you navigate the healing process.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I submit an obituary online?

A: Yes, you can submit an obituary online by emailing obits@bfp.com.

Q: How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

A: The cost of publishing an obituary in the Burlington Free Press varies based on the length and any additional options, such as photos or a guest book. Contact the obituary desk for specific pricing information.

Q: Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

A: Yes, you can request changes to an obituary after it has been published by contacting the obituary desk. However, it's important to note that any major changes may incur additional fees.

Q: How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

A: Obituaries submitted by 2:00 PM will typically be published in the next day's newspaper. Obituaries submitted after 2:00 PM may be published in the following day's edition.

Q: What if I can't find an obituary online?

A: If you're unable to find an obituary online, contact the obituary desk at (802) 660-1849 for assistance.

Q: Can I include a photo in an obituary?

A: Yes, you can include a photograph of the deceased with your obituary for an additional fee.

Call to Action

In the face of loss, the Burlington Free Press obituaries provide a valuable resource for honoring the departed and connecting with those who are grieving. By sharing memories, offering condolences, and preserving the legacies of loved ones, we create a tapestry of remembrance that ensures they will never be truly forgotten.