Deseret News Obituaries: A Guide to Honoring Departed Loved Ones

The passing of a loved one is a profound event that evokes a blend of grief, gratitude, and a desire to commemorate their life. Obituaries, published in newspapers like The Deseret News, provide a meaningful platform to memorialize individuals and celebrate their contributions to the world.

Importance of Obituaries

Obituaries serve several crucial purposes:

• Honoring the Deceased: They pay tribute to the life and legacy of those who have passed, acknowledging their impact on family, friends, and the community.
• Informing Family and Friends: Obituaries notify loved ones of the passing, provide details about funeral arrangements, and offer a message of sympathy.
• Preserving Family History: They create a written record of a person's life, lineage, and accomplishments, contributing to family history and genealogy research.
• Supporting the Grieving Process: Writing and reading obituaries can be a therapeutic outlet for those mourning the loss of a loved one.

Writing an Obituary

Creating an obituary that effectively honors the deceased requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some guidelines:

Include Essential Information:
- Name, date of birth, and date of death
- Place of birth and death
- Parents' names
- Spouse(s) and children
- Occupation and education
- Military service (if applicable)

Highlight Accomplishments and Contributions:
- Describe the deceased's career, community involvement, hobbies, and any other significant achievements.
- Use specific examples and accomplishments to illustrate their impact on others.

Personalize the Obituary:
- Include anecdotes, memories, or quotes that reflect the deceased's personality and relationships.
- Share stories that demonstrate their character, values, and sense of humor.

Submitting an Obituary to The Deseret News

To submit an obituary to The Deseret News, you can:

• Submit Online: Visit the Deseret News website's obituary submission page at [link].
• Call Customer Service: Contact The Deseret News's customer service department at (801) 237-2135.
• Email: Send an email with the obituary text and supporting documents to [email protected]

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing an obituary, it's important to avoid common mistakes that can detract from its impact:

• Using Excessive Jargon: Obituaries should be written in clear and concise language that is accessible to all readers. Avoid using technical or unfamiliar terms.
• Including Irrelevant Information: Focus on the most important aspects of the deceased's life. Avoid including unrelated information that does not contribute to their legacy.
• Overlooking Important Details: Make sure to include all essential information, such as the deceased's full name, date of death, and funeral arrangements.
• Ignoring Cultural or Religious Sensitivity: Be respectful of the cultural or religious beliefs of the deceased and their family when writing the obituary.

Why Obituaries Matter

Obituaries are not simply a formality; they play a vital role in:

• Celebrating Life: They honor the life and accomplishments of individuals, ensuring that their memory lives on.
• Preserving History: They create a written record of the lives of ordinary and extraordinary people, contributing to the historical archive of our communities.
• Providing Comfort and Closure: Obituaries offer a tangible way to express condolences and acknowledge the loss of a loved one.

Tips and Tricks

• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to gather information and write the obituary, especially if you are handling other funeral arrangements.
• Consult with Family and Friends: Ask for input from family members and close friends to ensure that the obituary accurately reflects the deceased's life.
• Proofread Carefully: Before submitting the obituary, proofread it carefully for any errors or omissions.

Call to Action

Honoring the deceased through an obituary is a thoughtful and meaningful act. Whether you are writing an obituary for a loved one, a family member, or a friend, take the time to create a tribute that truly reflects their life and legacy.