The Baltimore Banner today announced the launch of online obituaries by offering an innovative approach to the publication of death notices. The digital-only platform will provide users a much more cost-effective way to memorialize loved ones. The Banner also will continue to grow its newsroom and showcase its commitment to obituaries by hiring a full-time obituary writer to supplement the work of beat reporters who currently write the life stories of recently departed figures in the community.

“On the heels of our two-year anniversary, we are taking the next step in our ongoing growth by launching obituaries,” said Baltimore Banner Editor in Chief Kimi Yoshino. “We are excited to expand our news team and provide a dedicated space where we will celebrate those who have touched our community. We look forward to telling these stories and providing comfort to families and friends by preserving memories and solidifying legacies.”

Obituaries will include both paid and editorial that are shareable on social media. Unlike traditional paid obituaries, The Banner will offer a flat rate instead of charging per line, making it much more cost-effective for families to honor their loved ones.

“We recognize that the funeral industry is evolving with many families opting for green funerals, cremations and simpler ways to memorialize their loved ones,” said Baltimore Banner Chief Revenue Officer Sharon Nevins. “With this in mind, we designed an obituary model that is not only cost-effective, but also allows families to easily honor their loved ones on our online platform. As The Banner continues to grow, we will continue to expand our offerings to better serve our community.”

As part of this effort, The Banner has partnered with both the Maryland State Funeral Directors Association (MSFDA), the preferred provider of death notices, and Legacy.com, the world’s largest commercial provider of online memorials.

“We are thrilled that The Banner will provide families with a cost-effective solution to memorialize loved ones,” said MSFDA Executive Director Andrew Van Dusen. “As the funeral industry continues to change, it’s great to see a top news outlet take a modern approach to obituaries.”

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