When seeking information about a deceased individual, specific details are essential for accurate identification. A full name, ideally including middle names or initials, is paramount. Coupled with the date of death, this information allows researchers to differentiate between individuals with similar names and locate the correct obituary or death record. For example, searching for “John Smith” might yield numerous results, whereas “John William Smith,” along with his date of passing, significantly narrows the search.
These identifying details are critical for genealogical research, historical studies, legal matters, and personal remembrance. Accurate identification ensures that the correct information is accessed, facilitating the retrieval of biographical data, family connections, and historical context. Historically, newspapers served as primary sources for obituary information, and this practice continues digitally today. The transition to online databases and digital archives has increased the accessibility of this information, making accurate identification even more crucial due to the sheer volume of data available. Moreover, including the date of death helps filter results by time period, further refining the search and increasing efficiency.