Jewish ObituaryFAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about searching for an obituary, creating a memorial, finding a funeral home, and using your account.
Searching
Finding an obituary
How do I find an obituary?
Search by name from the homepage or the obituaries page, or browse by state. Records come from funeral homes and Jewish community publications across the country, as well as memorials that families have written and published themselves.
Is there a cost to search for or read an obituary?
No. Searching, reading obituaries, browsing the funeral home directory, and reading our mourning and funeral guides are all free.
I can't find the person I'm looking for. What should I do?
Our collection grows as funeral homes and publications add new records and as families submit memorials directly. If you can't find someone, check back later, or consider creating a memorial yourself.
Creating a memorial
Submitting and managing an obituary
How do I create an obituary or memorial page?
Sign in or create a free account, then select "Submit an obituary." You will be asked for the person's name, dates, biography, and funeral details, along with a photo if you have one. Once published, the memorial includes a guestbook and a candle that visitors can light in remembrance.
Is it free to create a memorial?
Yes. Creating an account and publishing a memorial are both free.
Can I edit a memorial after I publish it?
Yes. Sign in and open your account page. Each memorial you created has an Edit link that takes you back into the form with your information already filled in.
Can other people leave a message or light a candle?
Yes. Every memorial page has a guestbook where family and friends can leave a message, and a candle they can light in remembrance.
Guidance
Funeral homes and mourning traditions
Do you help me find a funeral home?
We maintain a directory of funeral homes that serve the Jewish community, with the details you need to reach one directly.
Where can I learn about shiva, kaddish, or other Jewish mourning customs?
Our resources library has plainspoken guides to shiva, kaddish, yahrzeit, unveiling ceremonies, cemetery etiquette, funeral costs, and more, written for families across Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform practice.
Can you help me write an obituary?
Yes. Our guide to writing a meaningful Jewish obituary walks through what to include and how to reflect a life and its Jewish heritage.
Account
Your account and privacy
Do I need an account to use the site?
No. You do not need an account to search for or read obituaries. You will need a free account to submit or manage a memorial.
I forgot my password. What do I do?
Select "Forgot password" on the sign-in page to request a reset link.
How is my information handled?
See our Privacy Policy for the full details on what we collect and how it is used.
Still have questions?
We’re glad to help
If you didn’t find your answer here, send us a message and we will get back to you.