Free Resources to Find Obituaries Online
Discover how to locate free obituaries online using various resources, including local newspapers, archives, libraries, churches, and dedicated websites. Learn effective strategies to access obituary records and honor loved ones' memories without any cost.
How to Find Free Obituaries on the Internet
An obituary is a notice published in newspapers or online that announces a person's death and highlights their life achievements. It provides a way for families and friends to honor the deceased, share memories, and organize memorial services. Additionally, obituaries assist in the grieving process by bringing loved ones together and offering communal support during difficult times.
Offline Methods
Local Newspapers
Many newspapers publish obituaries both in print and on their websites. Some sites keep archives accessible for at least six months, making it easier to find recent notices.
If you're unsure about the local newspaper in the deceased's area, websites like obituaries.com offer direct links to various local obituary pages nationwide.
Mennonite Archives
For those researching Mennonite community members, archives dating back to 1884 are available. If the deceased belonged to this faith, finding free obituaries becomes more straightforward.
Public Libraries
Visiting local libraries in the area where the person lived can help access obituaries for free. Libraries often hold copies of regional newspapers for several weeks or even years. To review older issues, librarians can assist with microfilm archives. Remember to bring notes and a pen for taking notes during your search.
Church Records
Many churches maintain extensive records on deceased members, including obituaries from recent and past decades. Public access to these records varies, but some house millions of microfilm, fiche, and digital files, offering a wealth of information.
Online Platforms
Websites like ancestry.com and legacy.com host large databases of obituaries, ship manifests, census data, and more. While some features are paid, free trials on sites like ancestry.com offer two-week access, and legacy.com compiles notices from numerous newspapers. To find a specific obituary, enter the person's name and location details, then browse the archives for free access to the relevant records.
