Inside Story: Lofties Funeral Home Obituary Somerville, TN Explained (A Beginner's Guide)

Obituaries, those short notices of a person's passing, are often overlooked, but they hold significant weight. They serve as a public announcement of a death, a celebration of life, and a record for future generations. When you come across an obituary from Lofties Funeral Home in Somerville, Tennessee, understanding its components and significance can help you appreciate its role and even contribute to the process should you ever need to. This guide provides a beginner-friendly explanation of what to expect, common challenges, and practical examples.

What is an Obituary?

At its core, an obituary is a published notice of someone's death. It typically includes:

  • Basic Information: The deceased's full name, age, date of death, and place of death.

  • Biographical Details: Information about their life, including birthdate and location, education, career, hobbies, and significant accomplishments.

  • Family Information: The names of surviving family members (spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings, etc.) and sometimes the names of those who predeceased them.

  • Funeral Service Information: Details about the funeral or memorial service, including date, time, and location.

  • Donation Requests: Information about where to send memorial donations, often to a specific charity or cause the deceased supported.

    • Lofties Funeral Home and Obituaries

    Lofties Funeral Home, like other funeral homes, plays a crucial role in the obituary process. They often assist families in writing and submitting obituaries to newspapers and online platforms. They may also host the obituary on their own website. This is a valuable service as crafting an obituary during a time of grief can be overwhelming.

    Key Components of a Lofties Funeral Home Obituary (Somerville, TN)

    While the specific content varies depending on the family's preferences, here's a breakdown of what you're likely to find in a Lofties Funeral Home obituary:

    1. Headline: This usually includes the deceased's name, often followed by "Obituary" or a similar phrase. Example: "John Smith Obituary" or "Remembering John Smith".

    2. Introduction: This sets the tone and introduces the deceased. It might start with something like, "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of..." or "John Smith, of Somerville, TN, passed away peacefully on..."

    3. Life Story: This is the heart of the obituary. It recounts key moments and achievements in the deceased's life. This section might include:

    * Early Life: Where and when they were born, their parents' names, and details about their childhood.
    * Education: Schools attended, degrees earned, and any academic achievements.
    * Career: Jobs held, promotions received, and contributions made to their profession.
    * Hobbies and Interests: Activities they enjoyed, passions they pursued, and groups they belonged to.
    * Significant Accomplishments: Awards received, milestones reached, and contributions to the community.
    * Personality Traits: What made them unique, their sense of humor, and their impact on others.

    Example: "John was born in Memphis, TN, on January 1, 1950, to Robert and Mary Smith. He graduated from Somerville High School and went on to earn a degree in engineering from the University of Tennessee. He worked as a civil engineer for 30 years, contributing to numerous infrastructure projects in Fayette County. John was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends."

    4. Family Information: This section lists surviving and deceased family members. It typically starts with the spouse (if applicable), followed by children, grandchildren, and siblings.

    Example: "John is survived by his loving wife, Jane Smith; his children, Robert Smith (Sarah) and Emily Jones (Michael); his grandchildren, Ashley, Brandon, and Christopher; and his sister, Susan Brown."

    5. Funeral Service Details: This provides information about the date, time, and location of the funeral or memorial service. It may also include information about visitation hours.

    Example: "A funeral service will be held at Lofties Funeral Home Chapel in Somerville, TN, on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the funeral home."

    6. Memorial Donations: This section suggests where to send memorial donations in lieu of flowers. This is a way to honor the deceased's memory and support a cause they cared about.

    Example: "In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Fayette County Animal Rescue."

    7. Closing Remarks: This often includes a final expression of love, respect, or remembrance.

    Example: "John will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit will never be forgotten."

    Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:

  • Being Overly Formal: While obituaries are traditionally formal, they can also be personal and reflect the deceased's personality. Don't be afraid to use anecdotes or quotes that capture their essence.

  • Omitting Important Details: Make sure to include all essential information, such as the date and location of the service. Double-check all dates and names for accuracy.

  • Focusing Only on Achievements: While accomplishments are important, remember to highlight the deceased's character, values, and relationships.

  • Ignoring the Deceased's Wishes: If the deceased had specific preferences for their obituary or funeral arrangements, be sure to honor them.

  • Rushing the Process: Take your time to gather information and write a thoughtful tribute. Don't feel pressured to complete the obituary immediately.

  • Forgetting to Proofread: Errors in the obituary can be embarrassing and disrespectful. Have multiple people proofread the text before submitting it.

    • Practical Examples and Tips:

  • Gather Information: Start by collecting information from family members and friends. Ask them to share memories, stories, and details about the deceased's life.

  • Use a Template: Many funeral homes, including Lofties, provide obituary templates that can help you structure your writing.

  • Be Authentic: Write in your own voice and let your emotions shine through. Don't try to be someone you're not.

  • Keep it Concise: While it's important to include key details, avoid being overly verbose. Aim for a length that is appropriate for the publication.

  • Consider Online Obituaries: Online obituaries offer more space and flexibility than print obituaries. You can include photos, videos, and personal tributes.

Conclusion:

Understanding the components and purpose of an obituary, especially within the context of Lofties Funeral Home in Somerville, TN, allows you to appreciate its significance. It's more than just a death announcement; it's a celebration of a life lived, a tribute to a person's memory, and a valuable historical record. By following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you can navigate the obituary process with greater confidence and create a fitting tribute to your loved one. Remember that Lofties Funeral Home is there to assist you every step of the way.