Wheeling, WV Obituaries: The Intelligencer & News-Register

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Hey guys! Let's dive into how you can find obituaries from The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register in Wheeling, West Virginia. Whether you're looking to honor a loved one, research your family history, or simply stay informed about your community, accessing these records is super important. So, let's break it down and make it easy.

Why Obituaries Matter

Obituaries are more than just announcements of someone's passing; they're like mini-biographies that capture the essence of a person's life. They often include key details like the deceased's full name, date of birth, date of death, and the names of surviving family members. You might also find info about their career, hobbies, and significant life events. For genealogists, obituaries are absolute goldmines, offering clues and connections that can help piece together family trees. Plus, they serve as a public acknowledgment of a person's life and contributions, providing closure and a way for the community to mourn together.

The Role of The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register

The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register are two of the main newspapers serving the Wheeling area. They've been around for ages, diligently reporting local news, events, and, of course, obituaries. These newspapers act as a primary source for folks looking to stay connected with what's happening in their community. When someone passes away, their obituary is often published in one of these papers, making it a go-to resource for those seeking information about recent deaths. By preserving these records, the newspapers help maintain a vital part of the community's history and collective memory.

Finding Obituaries Online

Alright, let's get practical. How can you actually find these obituaries online? Here’s the lowdown:

1. Newspaper Official Websites

The most direct route is to check the official websites of The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register. Many newspapers now have online archives where you can search for obituaries. Just head to their site and look for a section labeled “Obituaries” or “Death Notices.” You can usually filter by date or search for a specific name. This is often the quickest way to find recent obituaries.

2. Online Obituary Platforms

There are several online platforms dedicated to aggregating obituaries from various sources. Websites like Legacy.com, Find a Grave, and Eternal Rest Memorial Park often host obituaries submitted directly by funeral homes or family members. These sites usually have powerful search functions that allow you to narrow down your search by name, date range, and location. Plus, they often offer additional features like guest books where you can leave condolences or share memories.

3. Funeral Home Websites

Funeral homes in the Wheeling area also post obituaries on their websites. Check out the websites of local funeral homes like Altmeyer Funeral Home, Kepner Funeral Home, and Wilson Funeral Home. They usually have a section dedicated to current and past services, where you can find detailed obituaries. These often include service information, photos, and sometimes even video tributes.

4. Genealogy Websites

If you're digging deeper into family history, genealogy websites like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch can be super helpful. These sites often have digitized newspaper archives and obituary collections that you can search. Keep in mind that some of these sites require a subscription, but they can be worth it if you're serious about your research.

Tips for a Successful Search

Okay, let's arm you with some tips to make your obituary search as smooth as possible:

1. Be Specific with Your Keywords

When searching, be as specific as you can with your keywords. Instead of just typing “Smith obituary,” try “John Smith obituary Wheeling WV.” The more details you include, the more likely you are to find the right match.

2. Use Date Ranges

If you have a rough idea of when the person passed away, use date ranges to narrow down your search. This can save you a ton of time and help you sift through fewer results.

3. Try Different Spellings

Sometimes names are misspelled in obituaries, especially if they're less common. Try variations of the name you're searching for. For example, if you're looking for “Catherine,” also try “Kathryn” or “Cathy.”

4. Check Maiden Names

For married women, remember to check both their married name and maiden name. This is especially important for older obituaries.

5. Explore Local Libraries and Archives

Don't forget about the traditional resources! Local libraries and historical societies often have extensive collections of newspapers and historical records. The Ohio County Public Library in Wheeling, for example, might have microfilm or digital archives of The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register. These resources can be invaluable, especially for older obituaries that aren't available online.

Understanding Obituary Content

When you find an obituary, what kind of info can you expect to see? Here’s a breakdown:

Basic Information

  • Full Name: The deceased's complete name. Also maiden name may also be included.
  • Date of Birth and Death: These dates provide a clear timeline of the person's life.
  • Location of Death: The city or town where the person passed away.

Family Information

  • Surviving Relatives: Names of spouses, children, grandchildren, and other close family members.
  • Predeceased Relatives: Names of family members who died before the deceased.
  • Parents' Names: Often included to provide more context about the person's background.

Life Highlights

  • Career: Information about the person's profession or work history.
  • Education: Details about schools attended and degrees earned.
  • Hobbies and Interests: What the person enjoyed doing in their free time.
  • Achievements and Awards: Recognition the person received for their accomplishments.

Service Information

  • Funeral Home: The name and location of the funeral home handling the arrangements.
  • Service Dates and Times: When and where the funeral or memorial service will be held.
  • Visitation Information: Details about when and where friends and family can pay their respects.
  • Burial Information: Where the person will be buried.

Other Details

  • Organizations: Any clubs, societies, or religious groups the person was involved in.
  • Charitable Donations: Suggestions for memorial contributions.
  • Personal Anecdotes: Stories or memories that paint a picture of the person's personality and life.

Preserving Family History

Finding and preserving obituaries is a fantastic way to keep your family history alive. These records offer a glimpse into the lives of your ancestors and can help you connect with your heritage. Here are a few tips for preserving obituaries:

1. Create a Digital Archive

Scan or photograph obituaries and save them to a digital archive. Use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to ensure your files are backed up and accessible from anywhere.

2. Build a Family Tree

Use the information from obituaries to build or expand your family tree on genealogy websites like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch. This helps you visualize your family's connections and see how different members relate to each other.

3. Share with Family Members

Share your findings with other family members. They may have additional information or stories to add to the records. Collaboration can enrich your understanding of your family history.

4. Print and Store Physical Copies

If you have physical copies of obituaries, print them on acid-free paper and store them in archival-quality folders or binders. This will help prevent them from deteriorating over time.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Finding obituaries from The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register in Wheeling, WV, doesn't have to be a daunting task. By using online resources, local libraries, and a few clever search strategies, you can uncover a wealth of information about your loved ones and your community. Whether you're a genealogy enthusiast or simply want to pay your respects, these records offer valuable insights into the lives of those who came before us. Happy searching, and may you find the information you seek!