When a loved one passes away, we often search for meaningful ways to honor their memory. One of the most heartfelt and accessible methods is through writing or reading an obituary. In Utah, Deseret News obituaries have served as a trusted source for families to celebrate lives, mourn together, and preserve stories for generations.
In this article, we’ll explore how to find, write, and understand Deseret News obituaries, using everyday language and simple step-by-step guidance. Whether you’re planning ahead, coping with a recent loss, or simply curious, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
đź“° What Are Deseret News Obituaries?
Obituaries are short notices published in newspapers or online to announce someone’s death and celebrate their life. Specifically, Deseret News obituaries are published by Deseret News, a well-known newspaper based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and are a major part of how Utah families honor those they’ve lost.
These obituaries usually include:
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Full name of the deceased
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Date of birth and death
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Family members and survivors
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Funeral or memorial details
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A life summary or personal story
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A photo
It’s more than just a notice — it’s a tribute.
❤️ Why Obituaries Matter
Let’s pause for a moment and think about why obituaries have stood the test of time.
Years ago, my grandmother passed away in a small Utah town. We were heartbroken, unsure how to honor her life beyond the funeral. It was my aunt who suggested writing an obituary for Deseret News. The process turned into a beautiful storytelling session — we laughed, cried, and remembered every bit of her 84 years. Seeing her name and story in print made her feel eternal.
This is the true power of an obituary: it celebrates life, helps us heal, and brings a community together.
🔍 How to Find Obituaries in Deseret News
If you’re looking for an obituary — whether recent or historical — here’s how to find it quickly and easily.
Step-by-Step Guide
🖥️ 1. Visit the Official Deseret News Obituary Page
Head over to the Deseret News Obituaries page. This is the central hub for all published obituaries.
🔎 2. Use the Search Function
Type in the person’s name, or browse by date. You can filter results by:
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Recent obituaries
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Last name
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Funeral home
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Location
đź“… 3. Check Archives for Older Obituaries
If you’re looking for older notices, use the Deseret News archives. They contain historical obituaries dating back several decades.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip
Make your search easier by including middle initials, city names, or approximate dates.
✍️ How to Write a Deseret News Obituary
Writing an obituary might feel overwhelming, especially during a difficult time. But it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a simple roadmap to help you through it.
Step-by-Step Guide
🧾 1. Gather Key Information
Before writing, collect details such as:
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Full name
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Age and date of birth/death
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Family members (spouse, children, siblings, etc.)
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Hometown and residence
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Career and hobbies
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Funeral or memorial service details
đź’¬ 2. Write a Short Biography
Tell their story! Did they serve in the military? Own a small business? Volunteer in their community? Share highlights that truly capture their spirit.
đź“· 3. Include a Photo
A picture brings the story to life. Choose a photo that shows them smiling or doing what they loved.
📨 4. Submit to Deseret News
You can submit your obituary by contacting Deseret News directly or working with a local funeral home that handles submissions for you.
Pricing Note: Obituary pricing varies depending on length and whether a photo is included. Contact their team for current rates.
đź’ˇ Tips for Writing a Heartfelt Obituary
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Keep it conversational – Write as if you’re sharing a story with a friend.
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Be specific – Instead of “She loved gardening,” say “She spent Sunday mornings planting sunflowers and singing to her tomatoes.”
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Add a quote or memory – It personalizes the tribute.
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Celebrate, don’t just mourn – Talk about what made them special, not just the fact that they’re gone.
🏠Partner Funeral Homes
Many Utah funeral homes work closely with Deseret News to publish obituaries. Here are a few well-known ones:
These providers often help families write and submit the obituary during the funeral planning process.
đź“š Preserving the Legacy
Publishing in the Deseret News isn’t just about now — it’s about legacy. The obituary becomes part of a digital and print archive that family and future generations can revisit for years.
Tools to Preserve and Share
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Legacy.com: Deseret News partners with them for guest books, photo sharing, and tribute walls.
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FindAGrave: Add the obituary link to the grave’s memorial page.
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FamilySearch or Ancestry: Many genealogists use Deseret News obituaries to build family trees.
📲 Deseret News Obituaries Go Digital
In today’s connected world, digital obituaries allow us to reach more people — instantly. Deseret News offers online guestbooks, virtual candles, and space for comments or memories.
This means even friends across the globe can share a condolence, repost the link, or attend a virtual memorial service.
🧠Frequently Asked Questions
âť“ Can I write the obituary myself?
Yes! You can write it on your own or ask the funeral home for help. Just follow the guidelines on Deseret’s submission page.
âť“ How long does it take to publish?
Usually 1–2 business days after submission. Plan ahead if the funeral is coming up quickly.
âť“ Are Deseret News obituaries only for Mormons?
No. While Deseret News is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, obituaries are open to everyone, regardless of religion.
đź“Ś Final Thoughts: A Tribute That Lasts
At the end of the day, writing or reading a Deseret News obituary isn’t just about facts. It’s about stories, love, and legacy. It’s about keeping memories alive in our hearts and our history books.
Whether you’re saying goodbye or just remembering, take a moment to reflect on the beauty of a life well-lived.
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell
