Obituary notices and classified death notices help families notify friends that someone has died. Some papers run free biographical obituaries; others charge a fee. Some papers allow black and white or color photographs to accompany notices.

The following is an example of information that you might want included in an obituary:

• Name of deceased in full — first, middle or maiden, last
• Age of deceased
• Home area, length of residence
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Cause of death; length and kind of illness
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Education (where and when)
• Employment (where and when)
• Military Service, if applicable
• Interesting or unusual achievements
• Membership in churches and organizations; offices held
• Hobbies and other interests
• Survivors and their home areas
• When and where the funeral, burial, wake and/or memorial service will take place
• Information regarding where memorial contributions can be sent, if applicable