by Obituaries are a meaningful way to honor and remember loved ones, trace family history, or conduct research. However, locating an obituary from years ago can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re unsure where to start or what records are available.
Whether you’re tracing genealogy, researching family ties, or commemorating someone from your past, this guide provides clear steps on how to find obituaries from years ago using trusted resources, archival databases, and expert strategies.
Where to Start When Looking for Old Obituaries?
Check Online Obituary Archives
Many funeral homes and newspapers have digitized archives where you can search for past obituaries. Some useful resources include:
- Legacy.com – A comprehensive obituary database that covers thousands of newspapers.
- Newspapers.com – Offers searchable historical newspaper archives, including obituaries.
- Genealogy Websites – Platforms like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org often include obituary records.
- State Archives or Public Libraries – Many have searchable historical records available for free or by subscription.
Many funeral homes, including McComb Funeral Home, maintain extensive obituary archives and offer personalized services to help families locate and publish notices.
Contact Local Funeral Homes
If you know where the person’s services were held, reaching out to the funeral home directly is a practical option. Many funeral homes keep records going back several decades and may be able to provide copies of the obituary.
Visit Local Libraries or Historical Societies
Libraries and local historical societies often maintain microfilm archives of newspapers. Librarians can assist you in locating the obituary by searching through bound volumes or digital archives.
Steps to Find an Obituary from Years Ago
1. Gather Key Information
Start by collecting details such as:
- Full name of the person.
- Approximate date of death.
- Location (city, county, state).
- Names of family members or other identifiers.
This information will help narrow down your search and avoid sifting through unrelated records.
2. Use Online Obituary Databases
Enter the name, location, and dates into trusted databases like Legacy.com or Newspapers.com. If the obituary isn’t available online, note which publications served that area during the time frame.
3. Explore Newspaper Archives
Many newspapers provide searchable archives, either through their own websites or through services like ProQuest, NewspaperArchive.com, or local library portals. Some archives are free, while others require registration.
4. Contact Funeral Homes
If you know where the services were held, call or email the funeral home. Provide them with as much detail as possible and inquire if they have archived obituary records or memorial booklets.
5. Check State and County Records
Some counties keep death records, including obituaries, in official archives. Visit their websites or contact them directly to find out how you can access the documents.
Additional Methods to Locate Older Obituaries
Social Media and Family Networks
Sometimes family members share memories or archived notices in private groups or online platforms. Posting inquiries in genealogy forums or community groups can yield helpful leads.
Church Records and Cemeteries
Religious institutions and cemeteries often maintain records of services and burial information. Contacting the church where the person worshipped or the cemetery where they were interred may provide additional details.
Genealogy Tools and Forums
Websites like Find A Grave, BillionGraves, or RootsWeb are excellent resources for connecting with others researching the same lineage. You can search or post inquiries to find family records.
Tips for a Successful Search
- ✔ Be patient—some records require time to locate.
- ✔ Cross-check multiple sources to confirm accuracy.
- ✔ Consider hiring a professional genealogist if the search is complex.
- ✔ Use variations of names, including middle initials or maiden names, to increase search results.
- ✔ Look beyond the obituary itself—death certificates, memorial booklets, and cemetery records often contain useful information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find obituaries that are not digitized?
Check with local libraries, historical societies, and funeral homes. Many maintain physical archives or microfilm that you can access by appointment.
Is it possible to request copies of old obituaries?
Yes, funeral homes, libraries, and archives can often provide copies by mail, email, or in person.
Can I search obituaries without knowing the exact date of death?
Yes. Searching within a range of years or using other identifiers like location or relatives’ names can help refine your search.
Are obituary archives free?
Some databases offer free access, while others require subscriptions. Public libraries often provide access to paid archives at no cost.
Conclusion
Finding an obituary from years ago can be an emotional journey, but it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with family history, honor the lives of those gone, and preserve memories for future generations. By using online archives, local resources, and community networks, you can uncover meaningful records and stories that enrich your understanding of the past.
With the steps outlined in this guide, you’re equipped to begin your search with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Whether you’re tracing genealogy or simply honoring a loved one’s legacy, finding old obituaries is a powerful way to keep their memory alive.
Start your search today—and let the stories of the past guide you forward.
