Your Guide to the Louisville Courier Journal Obituary FAQ

When a loved one passes, the Louisville Courier Journal has long been the go-to source for a dignified, community‑focused obituary. Whether you’re writing it yourself or working with the newspaper’s staff, you’ll likely have questions about timing, formatting, and cost. This guide pulls together the most common queries so you can navigate the process with confidence.

What Is the Louisville Courier Journal Obituary Process?

Submitting an obituary to the Courier Journal involves three simple steps:

• Draft the text yourself or with a family member, ensuring it follows the newspaper’s style guidelines.
• Submit the draft online via the obituary portal or by fax/email to the obituaries department.
• Confirm the layout, date, and any accompanying photos before the print deadline.

The newspaper typically publishes obituaries two to three days after the funeral service, but you can request an earlier or later placement if needed.

Common Questions About Timing and Deadlines

Timing is critical, especially if you’re coordinating with funeral homes or community groups. Here’s how the Courier Journal handles deadlines:

• Print Deadline: 11 a.m. on the day you want the obituary printed.
• Online Publication: Often the same day, but check the website schedule.
• Special Cases: If you need the obituary to appear on a particular date (e.g., Memorial Day), contact the obituaries office at least two weeks in advance.

Ask your funeral director for the exact date the newspaper will appear in the next edition; they can coordinate with the Courier Journal’s editorial calendar.

Formatting Requirements for Louisville Courier Journal Obituaries

The Courier Journal has a clear style guide to keep obituaries consistent and respectful. Pay attention to these details:

• Length: 200–300 words is typical. More extensive stories may be split across two columns.
• Font: 12‑point Times New Roman, single spaced, justified.
• Photos: JPEG or PNG, 300 dpi, not exceeding 2 MB. Include captions with full name, age, and location.
• Headings: Bold the deceased’s full name and age; use italics for location and dates.
• Inclusion of Service Details: Provide funeral home name, service time, and address only if you choose to disclose this information publicly.

Following the guidelines ensures your obituary appears promptly and avoids revisions.

Cost Structure and Payment Options

The Courier Journal offers a tiered pricing model based on length, placement, and photo inclusion:

• Standard Placement: $55 for up to 300 words, no photo.
• Extended Placement: $100 for up to 600 words or a second column.
• Photo Inclusion: Additional $20 per image.
• Online Exclusive: $30 for a digital-only listing.

All prices are in U.S. dollars and can be paid via credit card, PayPal, or a check mailed to the obituaries department. Keep the receipt—many funeral homes require proof of payment for their records.

How Do I Submit a Draft?

There are three convenient methods:

• Online Portal: Log in to the Courier Journal’s obituary portal, paste your text, upload photos, and submit.
• Fax: Send a PDF copy to the obituaries department at (502) 555‑1234.
• Email: Attach a Word or PDF file and send it to obits@courierjournal.com.

After submission, the editorial team reviews your entry for compliance with the style guide and may request edits if needed. You’ll receive an email confirmation once the obituary is scheduled.

Editing and Corrections

If you notice a mistake after the obituary has been scheduled, contact the obituaries office immediately. Corrections are handled as follows:

• Minor Typo: Often corrected in the next print run.
• Content Change: Must be submitted with a written request; the newspaper may waive the fee for urgent corrections.
• Photo Replacement: Allowed within 24 hours of the original submission; additional fees may apply.

Always double‑check the draft before submitting to reduce the need for corrections.

Digital vs. Print: Which Is Better?

Both print and digital obituaries serve different audiences. Consider the following:

• Print: Tangible keepsake, ideal for family gatherings and community members who prefer paper.
• Digital: Widely accessible, shareable on social media, and searchable via the Courier Journal’s online database.
• Hybrid: Many families opt for both to reach the broadest audience.

The Courier Journal’s digital archives also allow relatives to revisit the obituary years later, making it a lasting tribute.

FAQ

Q1: Can I include a tribute section in the obituary?

A: Yes, the Courier Journal allows a brief tribute paragraph—usually 50–100 words—placed after the main story. This is a nice way to add a personal touch without increasing the word count too much.

Q2: What if I need a bilingual obituary?

A: The newspaper supports Spanish-language obituaries. Submit the text in both languages; the editorial staff will format them side‑by‑side in the print edition.

Q3: Is there a limit to the number of obituaries I can publish in a month?

A: There is no hard limit, but the newspaper reserves the right to decline if the volume exceeds standard staffing capacity during peak periods.

Q4: How do I access the online archive of past obituaries?

A: Visit the Courier Journal website and click “Obituaries” in the main menu. Use the search bar to find past entries by name, date, or keyword. Some entries may be behind a paywall; a subscription grants full access.

Final Thoughts

Crafting an obituary for the Louisville Courier Journal is a thoughtful process that balances accuracy, dignity, and community connection. By understanding the steps—drafting, submission, formatting, and payment—you can ensure your loved one’s story is honored in the paper that many in the region recognize as a trusted voice. If any question remains, the obituaries desk is ready to help; their contact details are always listed at the bottom of the newspaper’s obituary page.