Death Records: Moving from When and Where to How and Why

SESSION: T249, TIME & DATE: Thursday, 09 May 2019,  2:30 p.m.

Kimberly Ormsby Nagy

When we first start researching our family, we are taught that a death record is important in giving us the date and place of death.

There is so much more to learn from this one record. You can potentially learn the names of the deceased’s parents, spouse, children, or other family members.  You may learn about their religion, health, and occupation.

Follow along as we learn a brief history of death reporting, along with the numerous bits of data that can be obtained to enhance and further your research.

But what if you can’t find an official death record?  There are several alternate sources that should be explored – many with additional information.  Several of these will be covered in the session. This lecture will benefit not only the beginning genealogist, but more seasoned researchers as well by suggesting other ways to look at death records and find more clues to our ancestors.

If you want to know more about some of the ailments that caused the demise of our ancestors, make plans to attend Session T209 titled “Dropsy? Quinsy? Consumption?” on Thursday, 09 May at 8 a.m.

BIO: Kimberly Ormsby Nagy, MD, PLCGS, has been an avid genealogist for over 40 years. She recently retired from a career as a trauma surgeon where she lectured to medical students and residents. A self-proclaimed Lineage Group “junkie,” she is a member of several lineage groups where she serves on their boards.  Her favorite position is that of Registrar – preparing and approving applications for membership. She uses her skills in genealogy, medicine, and speaking to help others join lineage societies, and to continue research for herself and others.  You can learn more about her and her lectures at www.whatsmylineage.com.