The Final Word On Obits In Morning Call – You Won’t Believe What’s Inside

The Morning Call, a Lehigh Valley institution, has long been a source of local news, and its obituary section has served as a vital community resource. Recent changes and evolving trends in obituary practices, however, have sparked both curiosity and concern among readers. This article delves into the current state of obituaries in The Morning Call, exploring the options available, the costs involved, the changing landscape of memorialization, and the perspectives of those who contribute to and rely on these important announcements.

The Evolving Landscape of Obituary Publication

For generations, the obituary section of a local newspaper was the definitive record of a life lived, a public acknowledgement of loss, and a way to inform the community of funeral arrangements. The Morning Call, like many newspapers, has adapted to the digital age, moving from a primarily print-based model to one that integrates online publication and expanded opportunities for memorialization. This shift has brought both benefits and challenges.

One significant change is the increasing reliance on families to write and submit obituaries directly, rather than having newspaper staff compose them. While this allows for greater personalization and control over the narrative, it also places a greater burden on grieving families.

"Families often find themselves overwhelmed during the immediate aftermath of a loss," explains Sarah Miller, a local funeral director. "Having to write an obituary, especially when they are unfamiliar with the process, can add to that stress. We often assist families in crafting these tributes, ensuring they are accurate, respectful, and informative."

Options for Publishing an Obituary in The Morning Call

The Morning Call offers various options for publishing an obituary, catering to different needs and budgets. These typically include:

Print Obituaries: These are the traditional obituaries published in the physical newspaper. They are often categorized by date of death and listed alphabetically. The cost is generally based on the length of the obituary, measured in lines or inches.
Online Obituaries: These are published on the Morning Call's website and often remain accessible for an extended period. Online obituaries may include features not available in print, such as photo galleries, video tributes, and guestbooks where friends and family can share condolences.
Enhanced Obituaries: These combine print and online publication with additional features, such as prominent placement on the website, social media sharing options, and the ability to accept donations in memory of the deceased.

The specific details of these options, including pricing and deadlines, are typically available on The Morning Call's website or through their advertising department.

The Costs Associated with Publishing an Obituary

One of the most significant concerns for families is the cost of publishing an obituary. Obituary rates can vary widely depending on the length of the obituary, the day of the week it is published, and any additional features included.

"The cost of an obituary can be a barrier for some families," acknowledges Miller. "It's important to be aware of all the options and to prioritize what's most important to you. Sometimes, a simple, heartfelt obituary is just as meaningful as a longer, more elaborate one."

To manage costs, families can consider:

Writing a concise obituary: Focus on the essential details of the deceased's life, such as their date of birth, date of death, family members, and significant accomplishments.

Choosing a less prominent publication date: Obituaries published on weekdays may be less expensive than those published on weekends.

Opting for online-only publication: This can be a more affordable option than print publication, while still providing a lasting tribute.

The Importance of Accuracy and Detail

Regardless of the format chosen, accuracy and detail are paramount in an obituary. The obituary serves as a historical record, and any errors or omissions can cause distress to the family and those who knew the deceased.

Key information to include in an obituary:

Full name of the deceased: Including any nicknames or maiden names.

Date of birth and date of death: Ensuring accuracy is crucial.

Place of birth and place of death: If known.

Names of immediate family members: Including spouse, children, parents, and siblings.

Significant accomplishments and contributions: Highlighting the deceased's life's work and passions.

Funeral or memorial service information: Including date, time, and location.

Charitable donation information: If the family wishes to direct donations to a specific organization.

It is always advisable to double-check the obituary for any errors before submitting it for publication.

Beyond the Traditional Obituary: Alternative Memorialization Options

While traditional obituaries remain a valuable resource, many families are also exploring alternative ways to memorialize their loved ones. These options can provide a more personalized and interactive way to celebrate a life.

Some popular alternatives include:

Online Memorial Websites: These websites allow families to create a dedicated space for sharing memories, photos, and videos. They often include features such as guestbooks, virtual candles, and the ability to accept donations.

Social Media Tributes: Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be used to share memories and condolences. These platforms offer a wide reach and allow for immediate interaction with friends and family.

Memorial Services and Celebrations of Life: These events provide an opportunity for friends and family to gather and celebrate the deceased's life in a less formal setting than a traditional funeral.

Charitable Donations: Donating to a cause that was important to the deceased can be a meaningful way to honor their memory.

The Role of Funeral Homes in the Obituary Process

Funeral homes play a crucial role in assisting families with the obituary process. They can provide guidance on writing the obituary, submitting it to The Morning Call, and coordinating other memorialization options.

"We understand that writing an obituary can be a difficult task," says Miller. "We work closely with families to gather the necessary information and craft a tribute that accurately reflects their loved one's life. We also handle the logistics of submitting the obituary to the newspaper and coordinating with other memorialization services."

Funeral homes can also provide information on the costs associated with publishing an obituary and help families find ways to manage those costs.

The Future of Obituaries in a Digital Age

The way we memorialize and announce deaths is continuing to evolve, driven by technological advancements and changing societal norms. The Morning Call, like other news organizations, is adapting to these changes by offering a wider range of options for families.

"The traditional obituary will likely continue to exist, but it will be complemented by other forms of memorialization," predicts Miller. "Online memorial websites, social media tributes, and personalized celebrations of life will become increasingly popular. The key is to find a way to honor the deceased that is meaningful and affordable for the family."

The future of obituaries will likely involve a greater emphasis on personalization, interactivity, and accessibility. As technology continues to evolve, new and innovative ways to memorialize loved ones will emerge, offering families a wider range of options for celebrating a life well-lived. The Morning Call's role will be to continue providing a platform for these tributes, ensuring that the stories of those who have passed away are preserved for future generations. The shift towards digital obituaries and online memorialization provides a more accessible and potentially more enduring way to remember loved ones.

Ultimately, the final word on obituaries in The Morning Call is that they remain a vital community resource, providing a way to announce deaths, share memories, and celebrate lives. While the landscape of obituary publication is changing, the importance of these tributes remains constant.