Losing a loved one is never easy, and crafting an obituary can be an emotional yet meaningful way to celebrate their life. The CJOnline obituary section, hosted by the Topeka Capital-Journal, offers a digital platform for families to share memories, announce funeral details, and preserve legacies. This guide provides practical steps for submitting an obituary, writing a heartfelt tribute, and utilizing CJOnline’s features to honor your loved one effectively.

Why Choose CJOnline for Obituaries?

CJOnline obituaries provide a modern, accessible, and interactive way to commemorate those who have passed. Unlike traditional newspaper obituaries, CJOnline allows for multimedia elements, wider reach, and long-term digital preservation 7.

Key Benefits of CJOnline Obituaries

• Permanent online memorials – Free with any newspaper obituary purchase 2.

• AI-assisted writing tool – Helps draft or refine obituaries for those struggling with the process 2.

• Flexible pricing – Options vary based on length, photos, and additional features 2.

• Community engagement – Friends and family can leave condolences and share memories 7.

How to Submit a CJOnline Obituary

Publishing an obituary on CJOnline is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth submission:

1. Gather Necessary Information

Before starting, collect key details about the deceased, including:

• Full name, date of birth, and date of death.

• Biographical highlights (education, career, hobbies).

• Surviving family members and predeceased relatives.

• Funeral or memorial service details (date, time, location).

2. Write the Obituary

A well-crafted obituary should:

• Begin with a brief announcement (e.g., “John Doe, 75, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025”).

• Summarize their life (key achievements, passions, and personality traits).

• Include service details (visitation, funeral, burial).

• Mention charitable donations (if applicable).

Tip: Use CJOnline’s AI obituary writing tool if you need assistance structuring the tribute 2.

3. Submit Online or Contact Support

• Online submission: Visit CJOnline’s obituary portal and fill out the form 2.

• Phone/email support: Call +1 (800) 917-9207 or email gannettobits@obituaries.com for assistance 2.

4. Add Photos or Videos (Optional)

Enhance the obituary with:

• A recent photograph of the deceased.

• A video tribute (for an additional fee).

5. Review and Publish

Before finalizing:

• Double-check dates, names, and service details.

• Ensure the tone is respectful and celebratory.

Tips for Writing a Meaningful Obituary

A well-written obituary honors the deceased while providing closure for grieving families. Here’s how to make it impactful:

1. Keep It Personal

• Share anecdotes that reflect their character (e.g., “She was known for her infectious laugh and love of gardening”).

• Avoid generic phrases—focus on unique traits.

2. Structure It Clearly

• Introduction (name, age, date of passing).

• Life summary (career, family, passions).

• Service details (time, location, dress code if applicable).

• Closing message (e.g., “She will be deeply missed by all who knew her”).

3. Avoid Common Mistakes

• Incorrect dates or names – Verify with family members.

• Overly formal language – Write as if speaking to a friend.

• Omitting key details – Ensure funeral info is clear.

Maximizing CJOnline’s Obituary Features

CJOnline offers interactive tools to enhance memorials:

1. Digital Guestbook

• Allows friends to leave condolences and share memories 7.

2. Social Media Sharing

• Families can broadcast the obituary via Facebook, Twitter, or email.

3. Long-Term Archiving

• Obituaries remain searchable online, preserving the legacy for future generations 7.

Handling Grief and Community Support

Beyond publishing an obituary, CJOnline helps families navigate grief:

1. Virtual Memorials

• Host online remembrance events for distant relatives.

2. Charitable Donations

• Include donation links to causes the deceased supported.

3. Grief Resources

• Some funeral homes, like Penwell-Gabel, offer year-long grief support emails 13.

Conclusion: Preserving Legacies with CJOnline Obituaries

A CJOnline obituary is more than an announcement—it’s a lasting tribute celebrating a well-lived life. Following these practical steps, families can create a meaningful, personalized memorial while leveraging CJOnline’s digital tools for wider reach and engagement.