Understanding the Criteria for Obituaries in Newspapers

Newspapers typically follow a set of criteria to determine who is qualified for an obituary. This process helps ensure that the individuals featured are indeed significant to the community and their lives have made a notable impact.

Key Criteria for Obituaries

When evaluating whether to publish an obituary, newspapers consider several important factors:

Relationship to the Deceased

Obituaries are often submitted by family members or close friends. This relationship helps establish the credibility of the information. Family members or close friends are more likely to have accurate and detailed information about the deceased's life and accomplishments.

Significant Life Events

Individuals with notable life events or achievements, such as community involvement, professional accomplishments, or public recognition, are often given priority. These events provide evidence of the individual's impact and significance.

Age

While age is not a strict criterion, older individuals, especially those who have lived a long life, are more likely to be featured. The length and depth of their life story often add more value to the community and provide valuable insights into their life journey.

Community Impact

People who have made a significant impact on their community through service, leadership, or contributions are more likely to receive an obituary. Community impact is a key factor in determining the eligibility of an individual for an obituary.

Request for Publication

Some newspapers require a formal request from a family member or an authorized individual to publish an obituary. This ensures that the information is accurate and the family's wishes are respected.

Local Relevance

Newspapers often focus on individuals who have ties to the local community or region, making them relevant to their readership. Local connections can significantly improve the chances of an obituary being published.

Length and Detail

The newspaper may have guidelines on the length and detail of obituaries. These guidelines can affect whether the publication decides to include one in their pages. Detailed and well-written obituaries are often given more prominence.

Cost

Some newspapers charge for obituary placement. The cost can be a significant factor for families considering submitting an obituary. However, for well-known individuals in the community, the paper may choose to write a story for free, as it adds value to their coverage.

Submitting an Obituary

Many newspapers provide an online form for those interested in submitting an obituary. Here are a couple of examples:

Example Forms

Obituaries - The Seattle Times Obituaries - The New York Times

To increase the likelihood of your obituary being published, it's advisable to fill out the online form thoroughly. Providing detailed and well-written information can help the newspaper staff understand the importance of the life being honored, making it more likely for the obituary to be featured.

Conclusion

The criteria for publishing an obituary are multidimensional. While personal relationships and financial considerations play roles, the impact of an individual's life on their community stands out as a significant factor. By understanding these criteria, families and the community can better navigate the process of honoring the memory of loved ones through newspaper obituaries.