Searching for obituaries can be a difficult task, especially when dealing with the emotions surrounding loss. This guide will help you navigate finding obituaries published in the Parkersburg News and Sentinel, both online and offline. We'll cover various search methods and offer tips to make your search more efficient and successful.
How to Find Obituaries in the Parkersburg News and Sentinel Online?
The Parkersburg News and Sentinel's website is the primary online source for their obituaries. While the specific layout might change, generally, you should find an obituary section easily accessible through their main navigation menu. Look for links labeled "Obituaries," "Death Notices," or similar.
Once you're on the obituaries page, you'll likely find several search options:
- Name Search: This is the most common method. Simply enter the deceased's full name (or as much as you know) into the search bar.
- Date Range Search: If you know the approximate date of death, you can refine your search by specifying a date range. This significantly reduces the number of results.
- Location Search: Sometimes, obituaries are categorized by location. If you know where the deceased lived, this option can be helpful.
Tip: If you're having trouble finding an obituary using the full name, try searching with variations—nicknames, maiden names, or even misspelled names.
What if I can't find the obituary online?
There are a few reasons why you might not find an obituary online:
- The obituary wasn't published in the Parkersburg News and Sentinel: The deceased might have been featured in a different local publication or only had a family announcement.
- The obituary is very recent: There might be a slight delay between a death and the obituary appearing online. Check back periodically.
- The online archive is incomplete: Older obituaries might not be digitized and available online.
How to Find Obituaries Offline?
If your search online is unsuccessful, consider these offline options:
- Visit the Parkersburg News and Sentinel office: You can visit their offices to check their physical archives. This is most effective for older obituaries.
- Contact the funeral home: Funeral homes often maintain records of services and can provide information or copies of obituaries.
- Check local libraries: Local libraries sometimes archive local newspapers, offering another avenue for searching older obituaries.
What other resources are available for finding obituaries?
Beyond the Parkersburg News and Sentinel, several other online resources can assist your search:
- Legacy.com: This is a large, commercially-operated website that aggregates obituaries from numerous sources. You can search by name and location.
- Findagrave.com: This website focuses on cemetery records and often includes links to obituaries.
Are there fees associated with accessing obituaries?
Most online obituary search functions are free, but some websites may offer paid services for enhanced features or access to more extensive archives. The Parkersburg News and Sentinel's basic obituary search is usually free.
How long do obituaries stay online?
The length of time an obituary remains accessible online varies depending on the publication's archiving policy. While many remain accessible for extended periods, some older obituaries might eventually be removed or archived.
Can I submit an obituary to the Parkersburg News and Sentinel?
Yes, most newspapers provide guidelines for submitting obituaries. Check the Parkersburg News and Sentinel's website for their specific submission instructions and requirements, often located within their obituary section or general contact information.
Remember to be patient and persistent in your search. Finding obituaries can take time, and multiple approaches might be necessary. We hope this guide has provided you with the tools to make your search successful.
