In an age of social media and digital memorials, you might wonder why newspaper obituaries remain important. The answer is simpler than you'd think: newspapers reach different audiences than online posts do, and they create a permanent public record that lasts beyond algorithm changes or platform shutdowns.
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According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 31% of Americans still read print newspapers regularly, and that number climbs significantly among older demographics. When someone publishes an obituary in a newspaper, it reaches not just the immediate family's social circles, but also distant relatives who may not be connected online, former colleagues who still check the local paper, and community members who might not see a Facebook post or email.
Newspaper obituaries also serve practical functions beyond announcement. They become searchable archives. Libraries, genealogy researchers, and family historians reference newspapers when tracing family histories. A death notice in a newspaper creates a dated, verified public record. Some obituaries include information about survivors, military service, or community involvement that becomes part of the historical record.
Different newspapers serve different purposes too. A large metropolitan paper reaches a broader audience but may charge more and have stricter word limits. A hometown weekly newspaper costs less and feels more personal to the local community. Some families publish obituaries in multiple papers—perhaps the major city paper where the person worked and the small-town paper where they grew up.
Takeaway: Before starting the submission process, think about which newspapers would have reached the person during their life. Where did they work? Where did they grow up? Where did they spend their last years? These are the papers where their obituary will have the most meaning.
Not all newspaper death announcements are the same. Understanding the different formats helps you figure out what you're paying for and what information will be included.
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Most newspapers offer three main categories of death announcements, each with different pricing and editorial involvement:
The format you choose depends on your budget, how much detail you want to share, and what the newspaper offers. Small-town papers might only offer death notices. Large city papers typically offer multiple tiers.
Timing matters too. Most newspapers have different deadlines depending on publication day. A paper that publishes Monday through Friday might accept death notices up until 2 p.m. the day before publication. Sunday papers often need information by Thursday afternoon. Understanding these deadlines helps you plan when to submit.
Takeaway: Call or visit the newspaper's website to learn their specific categories and costs before you write anything. A 10-minute conversation with their obituary department can save you from writing 500 words when they only accept 100-word notices, or from paying for a service level you don't need.
Before you contact a single newspaper, gather all the information you might need. This prep work prevents delays, ensures accuracy, and means you won't have to track down details in the middle of the submission process when emotions are already high.
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Here's what you should collect and organize:
As you gather this information, write it down in a simple document or note. Don't overthink it—just list facts. You'll organize and refine them when you actually write the submission.
One practical note: if you're working with a funeral home, ask if they have this information already compiled. Many funeral homes collect obituary information during the arrangement process and can provide it to you, sometimes already organized in a format they use for newspaper submissions.
Takeaway: Create a simple one-page reference sheet with all basic facts before you start writing or calling newspapers. This becomes your checklist, prevents information from being accidentally omitted, and helps you answer questions quickly if a newspaper staff member calls you back with questions.
The newspaper landscape is fragmented. What worked five years ago might not be current today. Some papers have merged, others have moved online-only, and submission processes vary widely. Here's how to locate the right papers and figure out how each one wants information submitted.
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Start by listing potential newspapers. Consider:
Once you have a list, finding their obituary submission process typically involves these steps:
Check the website first. Most newspapers now have an online section dedicated to obituaries and death notices. Look for links labeled "Place an Obituary," "Submit a Death Notice," "Obituary Information," or "Death Announcements." This page usually lists the costs, word limits, submission methods, and deadlines. Many large papers now offer online submission portals where
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.