How to Find and Submit Obituaries in the Edmonton Journal
When a loved one passes, the Edmonton Journal’s obituary section offers a respectful place to share their story with the community. Whether you’re searching for a recent notice or planning to publish a tribute, understanding the newspaper’s layout, submission guidelines, and digital options can make the process feel a little less daunting.
Where to Locate the Edmonton Journal Obituaries Section
The print edition reserves a dedicated page—usually near the back of the Saturday issue—for obituaries and death notices. In the online version, the “Obituaries” tab sits prominently in the navigation bar, leading to a searchable archive that spans several decades. Both formats allow you to filter by name, date, or family surname, making it easier to locate a specific entry.
What Information Is Typically Included
Standard entries in the Edmonton Journal obituaries contain the following elements:
- Full name (including maiden or former names, if applicable)
- Dates of birth and death
- Brief biography—often a paragraph highlighting career, hobbies, and community involvement
- Family details—spouse, children, grandchildren, and sometimes close friends
- Funeral service information—date, time, location, and any requested donations
Editors may also include a photograph, a favorite quote, or a short poem, depending on space and the family’s preferences.
How to Submit an Obituary to the Edmonton Journal
Submitting a notice is straightforward, but it helps to prepare a clear draft before reaching out. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Gather accurate dates, spelling of names, and contact information for the funeral home.
- Write a concise biography—aim for 100‑150 words for a standard notice.
- Decide whether you want a black‑and‑white or color photograph.
- Choose any special requests (e.g., donations to a charity).
Once you have the basics, you can send the obituary by email to obits@edmontonjournal.com, fax it to the newsroom, or call the dedicated obituary desk at 780‑123‑4567 for guidance. The staff will review the submission, confirm details, and provide a proof for final approval.
Digital vs. Print: Which Option Works Best?
The Edmonton Journal offers both print and online publication. Print obituaries are still popular among older readers and local institutions that keep physical archives. Online notices, however, reach a broader audience instantly and remain searchable forever. Many families opt for a hybrid approach: a brief notice in the print edition accompanied by a longer, multimedia tribute on the newspaper’s website.
Online listings often allow you to embed a slideshow of photos, embed a video tribute, or link to a memorial fund page. These features can give a richer, more personalized remembrance without significantly raising the cost.
Tips for Writing a Meaningful Tribute
Crafting a tribute that feels genuine rather than formulaic is an art. Consider these pointers:
- Start with a vivid memory or characteristic that captures the person’s spirit.
- Avoid overly generic phrases; specific anecdotes resonate more deeply.
- Keep the tone respectful but reflective of the individual’s personality—humor can be appropriate if it reflects how they lived.
- Proofread for spelling errors, especially in names—a simple mistake can be painful for families.
Remember that the obituary will be read by friends, colleagues, and sometimes strangers. Striking a balance between personal detail and broader relevance ensures the notice honors the departed while informing the community.
Costs and Payment Methods
Pricing for Edmonton Journal obituaries varies based on length, inclusion of photographs, and whether the notice appears in print, online, or both. A typical half‑page print notice might cost around $150, while a brief online listing could be as low as $30. The newspaper accepts credit cards, electronic funds transfer, and, for larger orders, check payments. Ask the obituary desk for a detailed price list before finalizing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned writers sometimes slip up. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
- Leaving out a middle name or suffix that distinguishes the deceased from similarly named relatives.
- Submitting incorrect funeral home details—double‑check the address and contact number.
- Exceeding the word limit without arranging for a larger ad space, which can cause delays.
- Forgetting to request a proof; last‑minute changes are harder to accommodate once the layout is set.
By reviewing the draft carefully and confirming all details with the funeral director, you can sidestep most of these issues.
Preserving Legacy Through the Edmonton Journal
Beyond the immediate announcement, an obituary in a respected local paper like the Edmonton Journal becomes part of the city’s historical record. Researchers, genealogists, and future generations often turn to newspaper archives to piece together family histories. Your thoughtful tribute, therefore, contributes to a collective memory that extends far beyond the moment of publication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update an online obituary after it’s published?
Yes. The Edmonton Journal allows families to make minor edits—such as correcting a typo or adding a donation link—within 48 hours of initial posting. Larger revisions may require a new submission and could incur additional fees.
Do I need to provide a photo for a print obituary?
Photos are optional for print notices, but they do enhance the tribute. If you choose to include one, ensure it meets the newspaper’s resolution requirements (minimum 300 dpi) and is submitted in JPEG or TIFF format.
How far in advance should I submit an obituary?
For print publication, aim to submit at least two weeks before the desired issue. Online listings can be posted as soon as the funeral home provides final details, often within a few days of the death.
Is there a way to announce a memorial service separately?
Yes. Many families place a “Memorial Service Notice” in a later issue or update the online tribute with the service details. The obituary desk can guide you on the best timing and format.
