Losing a loved one is never easy, and the process of finding information about them after they’re gone can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are several resources available that provide free access to obituaries, making it easier to find the information you’re looking for. Here are 10 such resources where you can find loved ones’ obituary information for free:
1. Legacy.com
Legacy.com is one of the most comprehensive online obituary platforms. It partners with more than 1,500 newspapers and provides access to obituaries from around the world. You can search by name, date, or location, and even leave condolences for the families of the deceased.
2. ObituaryLink.com
ObituaryLink.com offers a vast database of obituaries that you can search for free. It also provides links to the original obituaries published in newspapers, allowing you to access more detailed information if available.
3. Ancestry.com (Free Sections)
While Ancestry.com is a paid service for most of its content, it does offer some free sections, including historical obituaries. You can search through their historical newspapers collection, which includes millions of obituaries, though accessing some detailed records may require a subscription.
4. FamilySearch.org
FamilySearch.org, provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offers a wide range of genealogical resources, including access to obituaries, completely free. You can search their historical records, which include obituaries from around the world.
5. Newspapers.com
Newspapers.com is another valuable resource for finding obituaries. While it is a paid service for full access, you can often find obituaries through their free search function, especially for more recent publications. Historical obituaries might require a subscription for detailed viewing.
6. Cyndi’s List
Cyndi’s List is a comprehensive directory of genealogy resources on the internet. It includes links to obituary databases, both free and paid, and can be a useful starting point for your search.
7. USGenWeb Archives
The USGenWeb Archives provide free access to genealogical records, including obituaries, for each state in the United States. This is a volunteer-driven project, so the availability and depth of records can vary by location.
8. Find A Grave
Find A Grave is a resource for finding the graves of loved ones and also includes obituary information when available. You can search by name, location, or cemetery and sometimes find obituaries linked to the individual’s memorial page.
9. Obituaries360
Obituaries360 allows you to search for obituaries by name or by browsing through their collection of obituaries from various funeral homes and newspapers.
10. Local Library Websites
Many local libraries offer free access to historical newspapers and obituary databases through their websites. These resources can be especially useful for finding obituaries of individuals who lived in specific areas, as the databases often include local publications.
In conclusion, finding loved ones’ obituary information doesn’t have to be a costly or difficult process. These resources provide a good starting point for your search, and with a little patience, you can uncover valuable information and insights into the lives of those who have passed.
What is the best website for finding free obituaries?
+Legacy.com is often considered one of the best resources for finding free obituaries, given its vast database and partnerships with numerous newspapers.
How far back do online obituary records go?
+The availability of online obituary records can vary significantly. Some databases, especially those focused on historical genealogy like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org, can include records dating back centuries. However, the comprehensiveness and detail of these records can vary greatly.
Are all obituaries available online for free?
+No, not all obituaries are available online for free. While many resources offer free access to obituaries, some, especially more recent ones or those from certain regions, might require a subscription or payment to access.
Remember, when searching for obituaries, it’s helpful to have as much information as possible about the deceased, such as their full name, dates of birth and death, and location, to narrow down your search.