plaindealer obituaries

2 min read 22-11-2024

The Plain Dealer, a cornerstone of Northeast Ohio journalism, provides a vital service to the community through its obituaries section. This guide will help you navigate the Plain Dealer's obituary resources, understand their value, and find the information you need. Whether you're searching for a specific notice or simply reflecting on the lives of those who have passed, we'll provide the tools and information you need.

Accessing Plain Dealer Obituaries: A Simple Guide

Finding obituaries in the Plain Dealer is straightforward, but there are several ways to approach your search:

1. The Plain Dealer Website:

The most convenient method is to visit the Plain Dealer's website directly. Their website usually has a dedicated section for obituaries, easily accessible via their navigation menu. Look for links labeled "Obituaries," "Death Notices," or similar. Often, a search bar is provided for quick searches by name.

2. Legacy.com:

The Plain Dealer frequently partners with Legacy.com, a comprehensive online obituary database. You can access this through the Plain Dealer's website or by visiting Legacy.com directly. This platform offers enhanced search capabilities, including the ability to search by date range, location, and other criteria.

3. Newspaper Archives:

For older obituaries, consider exploring the Plain Dealer's newspaper archives. These archives might be accessible through the newspaper's website or through subscription services like Newspapers.com or GenealogyBank.com. Note that access to these archives may require a subscription fee.

Beyond the Basics: Maximizing Your Search

Sometimes, finding the specific obituary you need requires more than just a name. Consider these tips for refining your search:

Searching by Date Range: If you know approximately when the individual passed, specify a date range in your search. This significantly narrows down the results.

Including Middle Names or Initials: If you're unsure of the spelling of a name, try including middle initials or alternate spellings.

Using Related Keywords: Include any additional information you know, such as the individual's city of residence or place of employment. This could significantly aid your search on Legacy.com and other similar sites.

Exploring Nearby Towns and Cities: If you're having trouble finding an obituary, consider expanding your search to include nearby towns and cities where the individual might have lived.

What to Expect in a Plain Dealer Obituary

Plain Dealer obituaries typically include:

Deceased's Full Name: Usually prominently displayed.
Date of Birth and Death: Essential identifying information.
Cause of Death (Sometimes): While not always included, this might be present. Respect family wishes regarding this information.
Survived By: Listing of immediate family members and loved ones.
Services Information: Details about funeral services, visitation, memorial gatherings, etc.
Biographical Information: A brief summary of the deceased's life, accomplishments, and personality.
Photo: Often includes a photograph of the deceased.

The Importance of Obituaries

Obituaries are more than just announcements. They serve as:

A Permanent Record: A lasting tribute for future generations.
A Source of Genealogical Information: Important for family history research.
A Community Connection: Allowing the community to express condolences and share memories.
A Source of Comfort: Offering solace to grieving loved ones.

Remembering Loved Ones Through the Plain Dealer's Legacy

The Plain Dealer's obituaries offer a valuable resource for finding information and remembering those who have passed. By understanding how to effectively search their archives and online resources, you can honor the lives of cherished family members and friends. Remembering their legacies is a significant part of the grieving process. Remember to be respectful and mindful of the families during this difficult time.