Finding Obituaries: A Guide to Researching William Richard Donahue, Borek Jennings Funeral Home, 1999
Locating an obituary from 1999 for William Richard Donahue handled by Borek Jennings Funeral Home requires a multi-pronged approach. Unfortunately, direct access to older obituaries online isn't always guaranteed, as digitization practices varied significantly in that era. However, several strategies can increase your chances of success.
1. Where Are Borek Jennings Funeral Home Records Located?
This is the crucial first step. Borek Jennings Funeral Home may have a physical location, or it might have been acquired or merged with another funeral home. Determining their current status and location is essential. Try searching online for "Borek Jennings Funeral Home [city, state]" to identify any current contact information or successor businesses. They may maintain archives, even if not digitally accessible. A phone call to the funeral home (or its successor) is often the most effective way to inquire about obituary records.
2. Online Obituary Search Engines:
While a 1999 obituary might not be directly available on major obituary websites, it's still worth trying searches on sites such as:
- Findagrave.com: This website is a vast database of cemetery records, often including linked obituaries.
- Legacy.com: Another popular resource for online obituaries.
- Newspapers.com: Many local newspapers archived their obituaries online. Search using a combination of "William Richard Donahue," "obituary," and the city and state where the funeral home is/was located. Keep in mind that you might need a paid subscription for full access.
3. Searching Local Newspapers:
Local newspapers from the area where the funeral home operated are your best bet. Check their online archives (if available) or contact their archives department directly. Remember to specify the year (1999) and the name "William Richard Donahue" in your search.
4. Family and Community Connections:
If you know any family members or individuals who might have been close to William Richard Donahue, contacting them is invaluable. They may possess a copy of the obituary or know where to find it. Local historical societies or community groups in the relevant area may also possess records or be able to point you in the right direction.
5. Library Archives:
Local libraries often maintain archives of local newspapers and other historical documents. These archives may contain the obituary you are searching for.
Important Considerations:
- Spelling Variations: Be sure to try variations of the name (e.g., William R. Donahue, R. William Donahue).
- Date Range: Search around the year 1999, as the actual date of the obituary might vary slightly.
- Location: Specifying the city and state is crucial to refine your search.
Finding an older obituary can require patience and persistence. By employing these strategies systematically, you’ll significantly increase your chances of locating the information you need about William Richard Donahue. Remember to respect the privacy of the deceased and their family during your search.
