One of the most dramatic industry changes in the last decade revolves around the expenses of the conventional obituary. That final documentation of our well lived life placed in the “Obituary Section” of the local newspaper for all to read and share.
At one time these notices, like the declaration of our birth, were placed in the publications for little of no expense. Today, with many local papers struggling to survive, an average listing in a urban community paper may run into several hundred dollars, more if you include a photo or length career history.
Do you take the daily paper at home? Where do you get your community information from?
Technology has allowed us to quickly establish a Facebook page for the deceased and most funeral providers provide individual postings of obituaries within their company websites, but doesn’t it beg the question, how will you let your friends and family know about a funeral if the conventional newspaper is gone?
The schools use an email blast to families if weather is delaying a sports event. An email blast may be an option if you have access to your loved one’s data base. Some families do that now.
Perhaps a local cable channel will run the obituary details. The hours we spend in front of those screens at home is staggering. Much like the weather station you can pop in for the details like funeral home locations and visitation times.
Technology has converted our communication channels in the last decade. How will you get the word out? I’d like to know.