How to Navigate Asheville Citizen‑Times Obituaries
When you type “Asheville Citizen‑Times obituary” into a search engine, you’re usually looking for one of two things: a recent notice of a loved one’s passing, or a way to submit a tribute yourself. The newspaper’s obituary section has been a community fixture for decades, offering both a record of local lives and a practical guide for families planning memorials. Below, we break down the history, the digital tools, and the etiquette that make the process smoother for everyone involved.
A Brief History of the Obituary Page
The Asheville Citizen‑Times has published obituaries since its early 20th‑century beginnings, long before the internet turned newsrooms digital. Originally, families submitted handwritten notices that were typeset by the paper’s staff. Over time, the page evolved into a blend of formal death notices, longer life‑story tributes, and paid memorial advertisements. Today, the section still appears in the print edition every Sunday, but the majority of readers discover it online via the newspaper’s website or a mobile app.
Finding an Obituary Online
The simplest way to locate a specific notice is to use the site’s built‑in search bar. Type the full name of the deceased, and filter results by date if you know roughly when the article appeared. The results page will display a short preview—usually the headline, date, and a snippet of the tribute—followed by a link to the full entry.
- Advanced filters: Some users prefer to narrow by “Paid Notice” versus “Editorial” to differentiate between family‑submitted ads and staff‑written memorials.
- Archive access: For older records, the website offers a searchable archive dating back to the early 1990s. If the digital archive doesn’t cover the year you need, you can request a microfilm copy from the Asheville‑Raleigh Regional Library.
Print vs. Digital: What’s the Difference?
Print obituaries still hold sentimental value, especially in rural parts of western North Carolina where many families keep a physical copy for future generations. The digital version, however, offers searchable text, photo galleries, and the ability to share the notice via email or social media. In most cases, the online entry mirrors the printed content, though occasional updates—like corrected spellings or added memorial service details—appear only on the website.
Submitting a Notice: Step‑by‑Step
Families looking to place an obituary can start the process online or by calling the newspaper’s classified desk. Here’s a quick rundown of the typical workflow:
- Gather essential details: Full name, date of birth, date of death, surviving relatives, funeral home information, and any charitable donation requests.
- Choose a format: The Citizen‑Times offers a standard death notice (short and factual) and a longer memorial tribute (up to 500 words, with space for photos).
- Submit your draft: Use the online form to upload text and images. A staff editor will review the submission for accuracy and compliance with the paper’s style guidelines.
- Approve the proof: You’ll receive a PDF preview via email. Confirm the details, request any edits, and approve the final layout.
- Payment: Obituary fees are based on word count, photo inclusion, and placement (e.g., front‑page vs. interior). Payment is processed securely through the newspaper’s portal.
Tips for Writing a Meaningful Tribute
While there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all formula, a few best practices help craft a respectful and engaging obituary:
- Start with the basics. Include the deceased’s full name, age, and key dates right at the top.
- Highlight personal touches. Mention hobbies, community involvement, or a favorite saying to give readers a sense of character.
- Keep it concise. Even if you opt for the longer tribute, aim for clarity; avoid overly flowery language that obscures the essential facts.
- Proofread carefully. A typo in a name or date can cause confusion for friends trying to attend the service.
Accessing Historical Obituaries
Genealogists and local historians often turn to the Citizen‑Times archive for clues about Asheville’s past. The newspaper’s digital archive, accessible through a subscription, lets you scroll by year and month. For records older than the digital cut‑off, the library’s microfilm collection remains the most reliable source. Librarians can also help you locate “index cards,” a pre‑digital method the paper used to catalog obituaries by surname.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned contributors can slip up. Here are pitfalls that tend to crop up:
- Leaving out the funeral home’s contact information—this makes it harder for acquaintances to send flowers or arrange transportation.
- Submitting photos that aren’t high‑resolution, leading to pixelated print images.
- Waiting until the last minute; the Citizen‑Times typically requires submissions at least 48 hours before the print deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for an online obituary to appear?
After you approve the proof, the notice usually goes live within 24 hours. Print placement follows the newspaper’s weekly schedule, so expect it to appear in the next Sunday edition.
Can I update a digital obituary after it’s published?
Yes. Minor edits—such as corrected spellings or added service times—can be submitted through the same portal. The staff will post the update, typically within a day, and note the change at the bottom of the entry.
What are the costs associated with an obituary?
Fees start around $75 for a basic death notice and increase with word count, photo inclusion, and premium placement. The Citizen‑Times provides a detailed pricing chart on its website, so you can estimate the total before submitting.
Do I need a funeral director’s approval to publish the notice?
While not strictly required, most families coordinate with the funeral home to ensure that service details are accurate. The newspaper may also request a brief statement from the director for verification purposes.
