Publications that document the passing of individuals are commonly referred to as obituaries. A specific instance of this is a record of death notices appearing in a nightly news broadcast format from a local news source. These segments typically include a brief biography of the deceased, highlighting significant life events and contributions. As an example, the nightly broadcast might feature a segment showcasing residents who have recently passed away within the viewing area.
The recording of these deaths serves several functions for the community. It provides a formal acknowledgment of a life lived and offers an opportunity for collective mourning. Furthermore, it can preserve local history by documenting the contributions and experiences of community members. Historically, such announcements were a primary method for disseminating news of a death, particularly in areas where personal communication networks were less established.