The term refers to the section within a local newspaper that publishes notices of deaths. These announcements typically include biographical information about the deceased, details of funeral or memorial services, and expressions of condolence from family and friends. As an example, individuals might search the newspaper’s website or archives to locate a specific announcement of a recent passing.
Such announcements serve several important functions within a community. They provide a formal and public record of a person’s life and passing, offering closure and a means of mourning for those affected. Historically, these notices were a primary method of disseminating information about deaths to a wider audience before the advent of digital communication. They also serve as valuable resources for genealogical research and historical record-keeping.