Publicly posting an obituary may hold substantial legal significance, especially in certain States, as it serves as a fair warning to creditors.

An obituary also serves as more than just a death notice; it is a comprehensive record of an individual’s life, ensuring that their legacy is preserved for future generations. Contrary to social media platforms, obituaries are stored long-term, allowing them to be searched and discovered by future generations. While obituaries can be shared on social media platforms, their content may eventually be lost in the vast digital timeline.

As individuals age, many people turn to local obituaries for information about their community. A significant portion of adults still read local newspapers regularly, particularly those over the age of 50. Therefore, a published obituary that appears in both print and online formats has a greater chance of reaching distant friends and acquaintances, helping to keep their stories alive.