To find obituaries in the U.S. by name, follow these steps and use the resources outlined below:
1. Search Online Obituary Databases
Several websites specialize in listing and archiving obituaries, allowing you to search by name:
- Legacy.com: This is one of the most popular sites for obituaries in the U.S. Simply enter the name of the person you’re searching for. You can filter by location, time period, and newspaper.
- Tributes.com: Similar to Legacy, this website offers an obituary search by name, with filters for location and publication.
- GenealogyBank: GenealogyBank has a massive database of historical obituaries from newspapers across the U.S. You’ll need a paid subscription, but it allows for detailed name searches.
- Ancestry.com: Although it’s a genealogy-focused site, Ancestry has extensive collections of U.S. obituaries and newspaper records. This requires a paid subscription.
2. Check Newspaper Archives
Many newspapers have digital archives where you can search obituaries by name:
- Newspapers.com: A subscription service with a vast collection of newspapers and obituaries. You can enter a name and search by time period or location.
- Newspaper Websites: Many local and national newspapers provide online obituary archives. Check the specific newspaper in the area where the person lived.
3. Search Google
Google can be a helpful tool in finding obituaries by name:
- Simply enter the name followed by keywords like “obituary” or “death notice” and the location (if known).
- Example: “John Doe obituary New York”.
4. Use Genealogy Websites
Several genealogy websites offer obituary search functions by name:
- FamilySearch.org: A free resource for genealogical research that includes U.S. obituaries. Enter the name, and it will search its extensive records.
- FindAGrave.com: A website that provides burial records, often with accompanying obituaries. You can search by name and location.
5. Visit a Local Library or Archive
Local libraries and state archives often maintain collections of newspapers:
- Local Library Website: Many public libraries have digital newspaper archives that include obituaries. You can use their search function by name.
- University Libraries: University libraries may also have newspaper archives that include older obituaries.
- State Archives: Some state archives have collections of obituaries from newspapers across the state. These can often be searched by name.
6. Use Social Media or Online Forums
Sometimes social media can help:
- Facebook: Local community pages or genealogy groups may have members who can assist in locating an obituary.
- Reddit (r/Genealogy): You can post a request in the genealogy subreddit with the person’s name and any details you have. Other users may have access to specific resources.
7. Check Funeral Home Websites
Many funeral homes now post online obituaries:
- Funeral Home Website: If you know which funeral home handled the arrangements, visit their website and search their online archives by name.
- Funeral Home Directories: Websites like FuneralNet provide links to local funeral home obituaries.
8. Use Paid Services
If you’re unable to find the obituary using free resources, you might consider using paid services:
- GenealogyBank: Offers an extensive archive of newspaper obituaries for a fee.
- Ancestry.com: Provides access to obituaries and other records with a subscription.