obituaries roanoke times va

2 min read 17-09-2024

The Roanoke Times, a leading newspaper in Virginia, offers a dedicated section for obituaries, honoring the lives of those who have passed. This article serves as a guide for understanding how to navigate this section, the information it typically includes, and why it's important to remember and celebrate lives lived.

Understanding the Obituary Section

What is an Obituary?

An obituary is a public notice of a person's death, often accompanied by a brief biography. Think of it as a final chapter in a person’s life story, highlighting their accomplishments, relationships, and passions.

Why Are Obituaries Important?

Legacy: They serve to honor and preserve the memory of the deceased.
Community Connection: Obituaries can bring together communities, allowing friends and family to share in their grief and celebrate life.
Historical Record: They contribute to the historical context of the area, providing insights into the lives and contributions of individuals.

Key Features of Obituaries in The Roanoke Times

Information Typically Included

Name and Age: The full name of the deceased along with their age at the time of death.
Date of Death: The specific date when the person passed away.
Life Summary: Highlights of their life including accomplishments, career, education, and hobbies.
Surviving Family Members: Names of immediate family members who are still living.
Service Information: Details about funeral services, memorials, and any public viewings.

How to Access Obituaries

Visit the Website: Go to The Roanoke Times and navigate to the obituaries section.
Search Functionality: Use the search bar to find specific individuals or dates.
Print Edition: Check the daily paper for the printed obituary section.

Finding Recent Obituaries

Tips for Searching

Use the date filter to find the most recent obituaries.
Search by name, as many families choose unique or last names for easier identification.
Consider checking local funeral homes that may also post obituaries on their sites.

Example of a Recent Obituary

Here is a hypothetical example to illustrate how an obituary might be structured:

John Doe (1940-2023)
John Doe, age 83, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2023. Born in Roanoke, VA, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. John worked as a teacher for over 30 years, inspiring countless students. He loved fishing and gardening, and his smile lit up every room. He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Doe; two children, Mary and Tom; and five grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on March 15 at St. Mark's Church.

Conclusion

The obituaries section of The Roanoke Times is not just a list of names; it is a tapestry of lives woven together through stories of love, dedication, and community spirit. Taking the time to read these can foster a sense of connection, allowing us to reflect on our own lives and the impact we have on those around us.

For further reading on this topic, consider checking out our article on How to Write an Obituary or explore more about local history in our piece on Celebrating Local Legends.

By understanding the significance and structure of obituaries, we can appreciate the richness of our community's stories and ensure that those who have passed are remembered and celebrated in the way they deserve.