Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Obituaries: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating the world of obituaries can be a sensitive and important task, especially when you're looking to honor the memory of a loved one or pay your respects to someone who has passed away. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is a primary source for obituaries in the Pittsburgh region. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding, understanding, and utilizing obituaries from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Understanding Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Obituaries

Obituaries serve as public announcements of a person's death and often include a brief biography, information about funeral services, and details on how to offer condolences. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette provides a comprehensive platform for these announcements, both in its print edition and online. Knowing how to effectively navigate this resource can be invaluable.

What Information Can You Find in an Obituary?

Typically, an obituary in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette will include:

• Full Name: The deceased's complete name.
• Date of Death: The exact date when the person passed away.
• Age: The age of the deceased at the time of death.
• Residence: Where the person lived before passing.
• Biography: A summary of the person's life, including significant achievements, hobbies, and personal qualities.
• Family Information: Names of surviving family members, such as spouses, children, and grandchildren.
• Funeral Service Details: Information about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location.
• Donation Information: If the family requests donations in lieu of flowers, the obituary will provide details on where to send contributions.
• Photo: Often, a photograph of the deceased is included.

Why Are Obituaries Important?

Obituaries play several critical roles:

• Public Announcement: They inform the public about a death.
• Historical Record: They serve as a record of a person's life and contribution to the community.
• Condolences: They provide an avenue for friends and family to express their sympathy.
• Celebration of Life: They celebrate the life and achievements of the deceased.

How to Find Obituaries in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Finding obituaries in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is relatively straightforward, thanks to its online presence and organized structure. Here’s how you can navigate the process:

Online Search

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette website offers a dedicated section for obituaries. Here’s how to use it:

1. Visit the Website: Go to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette website.
2. Navigate to the Obituaries Section: Look for a link labeled "Obituaries" or use the search function on the site to find it. Often, it’s located under a section like “Local News” or “Community.”
3. Use the Search Function: Once on the obituaries page, you’ll typically find a search bar. You can enter the name of the deceased to find specific obituaries. You can also filter by date or keyword to narrow down your search.
4. Review the Results: The search will display a list of obituaries matching your criteria. Click on the obituary you’re interested in to view the full details.

Print Edition

If you prefer a physical copy, you can find obituaries in the print edition of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Obituaries are usually located in a specific section of the newspaper, often towards the back. Check the table of contents or index to find the exact page number.

Tips for Effective Searching

• Be Specific: Use the full name of the deceased if possible. If you're unsure of the spelling, try variations.
• Use Date Ranges: If you know the approximate date of death, narrow your search by specifying a date range.
• Try Keywords: If you’re unsure of the exact name, try using keywords like the person’s profession, neighborhood, or affiliations.
• Check Regularly: Obituaries are often updated daily, so check back frequently if you don’t find what you’re looking for immediately.

Writing and Submitting an Obituary to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

If you need to submit an obituary to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, here’s what you need to know to ensure it’s done correctly and respectfully.

Gathering Information

Before you start writing, gather all the necessary information about the deceased. This includes:

• Full Legal Name: Ensure you have the correct spelling and full name.
• Date and Place of Birth: This provides essential biographical context.
• Date and Place of Death: Accurate details of when and where the person passed away.
• A Detailed Biography: Include significant life events, achievements, hobbies, and personal qualities. Speak to family members and friends to gather meaningful anecdotes and stories.
• Family Information: List surviving family members, including spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings. Be accurate and include full names.
• Funeral or Memorial Service Details: Provide the date, time, and location of the service. If the service is private, you can indicate that.
• Details for Donations: If the family prefers donations to a charity in lieu of flowers, include the name of the organization and how to donate.
• A High-Quality Photograph: Choose a photo that represents the person well. Ensure it is clear and of good resolution.

Writing the Obituary

When writing the obituary, keep the tone respectful and celebratory. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Start with an Announcement: Begin with a clear statement of the person's passing. For example: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of [Full Name] on [Date of Death].”
2. Provide Biographical Information: Summarize the person's life, highlighting key achievements and experiences. Include information about their education, career, and community involvement.
3. Share Personal Qualities: Describe what made the person special. Include anecdotes that illustrate their character and personality.
4. List Family Members: Accurately list all surviving family members. You can also mention deceased family members who were significant in their life.
5. Include Service Details: Provide all necessary information about the funeral or memorial service. If the service is private, state that it will be a private ceremony.
6. Mention Donations (If Applicable): If the family requests donations, provide clear instructions on how to contribute.
7. Proofread Carefully: Before submitting, carefully proofread the obituary for any errors in spelling, grammar, or factual information. Ask a family member or friend to review it as well.

Submitting the Obituary

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has specific guidelines for submitting obituaries. Here’s how to ensure a smooth process:

1. Check the Guidelines: Visit the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette website and find the obituary submission guidelines. These guidelines outline the required format, word count, and any specific instructions.
2. Prepare Your Submission: Ensure your obituary is written according to the guidelines. Have all the necessary information and photo ready for submission.
3. Submit Online or Via Email: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette typically accepts obituaries online through a submission form or via email. Follow the instructions on the website.
4. Pay the Fee: There is usually a fee for publishing an obituary. Be prepared to pay this fee when you submit your obituary.
5. Confirm Submission: After submitting, ensure you receive a confirmation email or notification. Follow up if you don’t receive confirmation within a reasonable time.

Understanding Costs and Options

Submitting an obituary involves costs, and understanding these can help you make informed decisions. Here’s what you need to know:

Cost Factors

• Length: The longer the obituary, the higher the cost. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette typically charges by the word or line.
• Photo: Including a photo usually incurs an additional fee.
• Days of Publication: Publishing the obituary for multiple days will increase the cost.
• Additional Features: Some publications offer additional features, such as enhanced formatting or online placement, which may come at an extra cost.

Payment Methods

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette typically accepts various payment methods, including:

• Credit Card: Most common and convenient method.
• Check: Accepted via mail, though it may delay publication.
• Online Payment: Some publications offer direct online payment options.

Options to Consider

• Online-Only Obituary: This can be a more affordable option, as it avoids print costs.
• Basic Listing: A shorter, basic listing is less expensive than a detailed obituary.
• DIY Obituary: Write the obituary yourself to save on writing fees, but ensure it meets the publication's standards.

Resources and Assistance

Navigating the process of dealing with obituaries can be overwhelming. Here are some resources and assistance options available:

Funeral Homes

Funeral homes often assist with writing and submitting obituaries as part of their services. They can provide guidance on content, format, and submission procedures. Working with a funeral home can alleviate some of the stress during this difficult time.

Grief Support Groups

Grief support groups offer a safe space to share your feelings and experiences with others who are also grieving. These groups can provide emotional support and practical advice on coping with loss.

Online Memorial Sites

Websites like Legacy.com and Find a Grave allow you to create online memorials where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences. These sites can serve as a lasting tribute to the deceased.

Professional Obituary Writers

If you’re struggling to write an obituary, consider hiring a professional obituary writer. These writers can help you craft a meaningful and respectful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life.

Cemetery Associations

Cemetery associations can provide information on burial arrangements, memorial options, and historical records. They can also offer guidance on creating lasting tributes to loved ones.

By understanding the process of finding, writing, and submitting obituaries in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, you can effectively honor the memory of those who have passed away and provide comfort to their loved ones.

For additional information, consider visiting a trusted resource like Everplans for comprehensive guidance on end-of-life planning.