Honoring Lives: A Guide to Submitting Obituaries

Apr 11, 2025 at 3:15 PM

Understanding the Submission Process

Submitting an obituary through the Reading Eagle involves a straightforward procedure designed to honor the deceased while maintaining accuracy. Typically, funeral homes or cremation services handle this task on behalf of grieving families. However, direct submissions from family members are also accepted, providing flexibility for those who wish to take personal responsibility in crafting the final tribute.The process begins with gathering essential information about the deceased, including details that reflect their life achievements and cherished memories. This narrative can be crafted into a document format such as Word or Google Docs, or simply typed directly into the email body. Accompanying photographs enhance the obituary, offering visual remembrance of the individual being honored. It is crucial to attach verification of death, either through contact details of the managing funeral home or a scanned copy of the death certificate, ensuring authenticity and respect.

Verification and Contact Details

To ensure transparency and reliability, the Reading Eagle mandates specific verifications alongside the submitted obituary. Families must provide comprehensive contact information, encompassing full names, telephone numbers, and addresses within the email correspondence. These measures safeguard against errors and uphold journalistic integrity.Moreover, the inclusion of a funeral service provider’s contact enhances credibility, reinforcing the legitimacy of the submission. By adhering to these guidelines, families contribute to the meticulous process of publishing accurate and respectful memorials that resonate deeply within the community.

Payment and Publication Scheduling

Financial arrangements for obituaries require clarity and timeliness. Families opting for direct submissions must settle payments via credit card, aligning with modern transactional standards. Prior to finalizing payments, the Reading Eagle extends a courtesy proofreading service, allowing submitters to review and approve the content before publication.Publication timing plays a critical role in reaching audiences effectively. Submissions intended for future dates should adhere to strict deadlines, necessitating receipt by 3:00 p.m. the preceding day. This structured timeline ensures timely dissemination of obituaries, enabling communities to pay respects appropriately. For inquiries regarding pricing structures, contacting the obituary desk at 610-371-5018 provides detailed guidance, facilitating informed decisions about this significant commemorative act.