Death records, probates, and obituaries are not the only place where your relative’s name could appear after their death. There are a variety of records and materials that could contain a reference to your ancestor–even if that ancestor was deceased. Barbara Haase had been dead for several years and her name was still appearing on tax rolls because her estate had not been settled. Newspapers may mention your relative’s name after their death for a variety of reasons, perhaps because their farm was finally sold, their former residence is mentioned as being their “old place.”
In more modern times, your deceased relative may be mentioned as having pre-deceased a family member. They may be mentioned as the “late John Smith” in the newspaper for some reason or other.
Your ancestor stops breathing when they die. References to them may continue for some time in certain records.
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