Finding recent obituaries for loved ones or acquaintances in the Erie, Pennsylvania area can be challenging. Navigating the online landscape of local news sources and funeral homes can feel overwhelming. This guide provides a streamlined approach to accessing the most up-to-date obituary information from the Erie Times-News.
How to Find Recent Obituaries in the Erie Times-News
The Erie Times-News, a primary source for local news, regularly publishes obituaries online. Their website is the best place to start your search. While they don't always maintain a dedicated, easily searchable obituary archive, their search function is generally effective for finding recent notices. Here's a breakdown of how to effectively utilize their website:
-
Visit the Erie Times-News Website: Go to the official Erie Times-News website.
-
Use the Search Function: Look for a search bar, usually located prominently on the homepage. Enter keywords such as the deceased's name, age, or location. Be as specific as possible to narrow down your search.
-
Browse Recent News: If a direct search doesn't yield immediate results, browse the recent news articles. Obituaries are often included within the news section, particularly in the local news segment.
-
Check Funeral Home Websites: Many funeral homes in the Erie area post obituaries on their websites. If you know the funeral home handling the arrangements, check their site directly. A simple online search for "[Funeral Home Name] Erie PA" will usually lead you to their website.
What Information is Typically Included in an Erie Times-News Obituary?
Erie Times-News obituaries typically contain the following information:
- Deceased's Full Name: This is usually prominently displayed.
- Date of Birth and Death: These key dates are always included.
- Place of Residence: The town or city where the deceased lived is generally listed.
- Survived By: This section details family members, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings.
- Services Information: Details regarding visitation, funeral services, and burial information are included when available.
- Personal Information: A brief biographical sketch often includes the deceased's profession, hobbies, and significant life achievements.
How Often are Obituaries Updated on the Erie Times-News Website?
The frequency of obituary updates varies. They are generally published soon after funeral arrangements are finalized. It's best to check the website regularly if you're looking for a specific obituary.
Are there other resources for finding Erie obituaries?
Yes, in addition to the Erie Times-News, you can explore other resources:
- Local Funeral Homes: As mentioned, contacting funeral homes directly is a reliable way to access obituary information, even if it's not yet published in the newspaper.
- Legacy.com: This is a large online obituary database that may contain obituaries from the Erie area.
- Findagrave.com: This website focuses on cemetery records and may also provide some obituary information.
What if I can't find the obituary I'm looking for?
If you're having difficulty finding a particular obituary, try contacting the Erie Times-News directly or contacting funeral homes in the Erie area. Providing as much information as possible, such as the deceased's name and approximate date of death, will significantly increase the chances of finding the obituary.
This comprehensive guide should significantly improve your chances of locating recent obituaries in the Erie Times-News. Remember to be patient and persistent in your search. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice.
