Worcester Telegram Obituaries: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Obituaries, published in newspapers like the Worcester Telegram, serve as both a tribute to the deceased and a valuable resource for family, friends, and the community. They provide a glimpse into the life of the person who has passed away, honoring their memory and celebrating their contributions. This comprehensive guide will explore the importance of obituaries, provide step-by-step instructions on how to write one, and offer a comprehensive resource for obituaries published in the Worcester Telegram.
The Importance of Obituaries
According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), over 90% of families choose to publish an obituary for their loved one. Obituaries serve several important purposes:
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Commemoration: Obituaries honor the memory of the deceased, providing an opportunity to share their life story and celebrate their accomplishments.
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Connection: Obituaries connect family and friends who are grieving, allowing them to share memories and offer support.
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Historical Record: Obituaries serve as a historical record of the community, preserving the stories of those who have passed away.
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Legal and Financial Matters: Obituaries can provide important information for legal and financial matters, such as estate settlement and insurance claims.
How to Write an Obituary
Step-by-Step Approach:
Step 1: Gather Information
Collect all relevant information about the deceased, including their full name, dates of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and military service.
Step 2: Create a Draft
Start by writing an introduction that includes the deceased's full name, dates of birth and death, and place of residence.
- Body Paragraphs: Dedicate separate paragraphs to the deceased's life story, focusing on significant events, accomplishments, and relationships.
- Conclusion: Summarize the deceased's life and legacy, expressing any final thoughts or words of tribute.
Step 3: Proofread and Finalize
Carefully proofread your obituary for any errors in grammar, spelling, or factual information.
- Share with Family and Friends: Share the draft with family and friends for feedback and input.
- Submit to the Newspaper: Submit the final version of the obituary to the Worcester Telegram for publication.
Worcester Telegram Obituaries
The Worcester Telegram publishes obituaries daily in its print and online editions. These obituaries:
- Feature a photograph of the deceased
- Provide in-depth information about the person's life and legacy
- Include contact information for funeral homes and memorial services
- Offer the ability to leave online condolences and share memories
Accessing Worcester Telegram Obituaries
Online: Visit the Worcester Telegram website at telegram.com and navigate to the Obituaries section.
In Print: Purchase a physical copy of The Worcester Telegram from a newsstand or subscription service.
Tips for Writing a Meaningful Obituary
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Use Specific Details: Include specific details about the deceased's life, such as names of family members, schools attended, and hobbies enjoyed.
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Be Descriptive: Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of the deceased's personality, interests, and accomplishments.
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Avoid Clichés: Steer clear of overused clichés and opt for fresh and meaningful language.
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Consider a Professional Obituary Writer: If you need assistance with writing an obituary, consider hiring a professional obituary writer.
Worcester Telegram Obituaries Resource Table
| Feature |
Description |
| Online Database |
Searchable database of obituaries published in The Worcester Telegram
|
| Search by Name |
Find obituaries by searching for the deceased's name |
| Recent Obituaries |
List of most recently published obituaries |
Comparison of Worcester Telegram and Other Obituary Sources
| Source |
Advantage |
Disadvantage |
| Worcester Telegram |
Local coverage, in-depth information, online availability |
Paywall for non-subscribers |
| Legacy.com |
Nationwide coverage, searchable database, customizable alerts |
Can be expensive for premium features |
| Findagrave.com |
User-submitted obituaries, grave locator, virtual memorials |
May not have all obituaries available |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I submit an obituary to the Worcester Telegram?
Contact the Worcester Telegram obituary department by phone or email.
2. Is there a charge for publishing an obituary in the Worcester Telegram?
Yes, there is a fee for publishing an obituary in both the print and online editions.
3. How long can an obituary be?
Obituaries in The Worcester Telegram typically range from 150 to 300 words in length.
4. Can I include a photo in the obituary?
Yes, The Worcester Telegram accepts photos for inclusion in obituaries.
5. How can I leave an online condolence?
Visit the Worcester Telegram website and follow the link provided within the obituary.
6. Can I access obituaries from past issues?
Yes, past issues of The Worcester Telegram can be accessed online through the newspaper's digital archive.
7. Are obituaries published in the print edition only available online?
No, all obituaries published in the print edition are also available online.
8. How can I find out about funeral arrangements?
Contact information for funeral homes and memorial services is typically included in the obituary.
Call to Action
If you have lost a loved one, we encourage you to publish an obituary in The Worcester Telegram to honor their memory and connect with others who have shared their journey. By following the tips and resources provided in this guide, you can create a meaningful obituary that reflects the life and legacy of your loved one.
