That is generally to be handled through funeral homes. Subjects in obituaries should be referred to on second reference by courtesy titles, such as Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms. 4. Cause of death is mandatory when pertinent, as, for instance, in the death of a person under age 40. Cause of death is also to be mentioned when the cause would be considered newsworthy, such as in a murder, suicide or public death. Information pertaining to memorials is welcome.
Information pertaining to a past resident's length of stay in Manhattan is welcome.
As a rule of thumb, it should be evident at or near the top of an obituary why that obituary is being run in The Mercury. Use of photos will be considered on an individual case basis when they are available. Headlines may well be appropriate on some obituaries, notably those of prominent persons. Requests for special treatment in obituaries is carefully considered. For example, the age of the deceased should not be omitted, nor should the circumstances of death, if appropriate, even in deference to the wishes of family members.