AskEddie

Can I request a DNA sample from someone who has died?

If you are interested in getting a DNA sample from a loved one who has died, it is possible to do so. Depending on where you lived and how the person died, the process of getting the DNA sample may differ, so it is crucial to research any legal issues surrounding this in your state.

If a coroner examined the deceased, they will likely keep a sample of the deceased’s DNA, typically as a blood spot sample. However, these samples are often destroyed after a certain amount of time, so requesting the sample as soon as possible is essential.

Nowadays, several companies specialize in running DNA samples from someone no longer living. Getting a DNA sample will likely require extra paperwork, and samples must be high quality enough for the DNA to be extracted. It is essential to talk to your funeral director to let them know your wishes so they can work with you to find the best way to obtain a DNA sample. However, if your loved one was cremated, there is less of a chance of enough genetic material remaining to get a viable DNA sample.

The main thing to know about obtaining DNA samples from someone who has died is that it is possible, but it doesn’t always work. You should also know that only family members or next-of-kin can typically request these samples. If you wish to obtain a sample, time is of the essence, so make sure to bring this up with your funeral director as soon as possible.

Christopher Hobson

july 10, 1974 — march 7, 2023

Fultondale, Alabama

Christopher Hobson, 48, was called to his eternal resting place on March 7, 2023. He entered this world on July 10, 1974 in Jefferson County, Alabama, born to Kenneth and Gertrude Hobson. As a loving father he is survived by his daughter Bethani Grace and Madison Dawn Hobson, brother Shane Hobson (Deborah), Dawn Shults, and Nieces Kimberly Brower (Austin), Shayna Lynn Hobson-Warren (Zach). Great Nieces Alayna Faith Kilgore and Victoria Brower, Great nephew Cody Kilgore. He is proceeded in death by his grand parents William and Charlet Allen, Mabrie and Nell Hobson, parents Kenny and Gertrude Hobson, nephew Alex (Tater) Cowan. He was a devoted member to Kimberly First Baptist Church for 6 years. He enjoyed mission trips with his favorite being his first time to Guatemala. A memorial service will be held on Saturday March 11th 2023. at Jefferson Memorial, visitation at 1:00, service at 2:00, Trussville, Alabama. His friend and pastor Clint Davison will be officiating the service. He was a loving Christian, brother, and devoted Daddy, he will be missed by all including his best friend-dog Oreo.

Norma Don Hood

february

Springville

3, 1936 — march 9, 2023

Mrs. Norma Don Hood of Springville, AL passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 9th, 2023.

Norma was born on February 3rd, 1936, to the late Donnel and Ruby Ruth Packer in Gadsden, AL.

In addition to her parents, Norma was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, Nelson E. Hood and three sisters; Linda Klyce, Gail Bolton, and Faye Bakatsas.

She is survived by her children; Vicki Hood and Mike Hood, one grandson; Paul Hood, one great-granddaughter; Jade Hood, one brother; Rick (Jennifer) Packer, and one sister; Wanda Everette.

Norma loved her family dearly and cherished spending time with her sisters and vacationing at the beach. She could also be found quite often, peacefully sitting on her patio birdwatching.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 18th, 2023 from 1:00 until 2:00 PM at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, AL with a memorial service beginning at 2:00 PM in the Chapel.

Ronny Joe Stone

july 3, 1941 — march 8, 2023

Trussville, Alabama

Ronny Joe Stone, of Trussville, AL, peacefully left to be with our heavenly Father, and loved ones who have gone on before him on the morning of 3/8/23. He was a wonderful father and the love of his wife's life. He did his best to make others smile especially children. He worked hard most of his life as an electrician for Jefferson County Board of Education. He also helped family and the local widows with all their electrical needs on his off time. He was a great carpenter and a creative birdhouse maker. There was not much he couldn't do for those he loved; he always found a way. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Ruth Stone, sister Martha (Mott) Walls, and nephew Tim Lovelady. He is survived by his loving wife Patsy Stone of 56 years, and two daughters Rhonda

Sherwood and Kristie (Timothy) Brown; his grandchildren Katelynn Bradford (great grandchildren Casey and Wyatt), Brittany (Brent) Isaacs (great grandchildren Travis and Torilynn), Jeremy (Ana) Sherwood (great grandchildren Marley, Jeremy Jr, and Lolita), Tyler (Bailey) Sherwood, Spencer Sherwood, Justin Brown, and Derrick Brown; sister Linda (Charles) Lovelady; nephews Tony (Julie) Lovelady, John A (Erika) Walls, Steve (Sandra) Walls, and niece Suzanne (John) Perkins.

Dora Jane Hicks

february 22, 1933 — march 7, 2023

Dora Jane Hicks was born on February 22, 1933 in Birmingham, AL, to George Hicks and Ozella Hicks.

Dora Jane graduated from Woodlawn High School and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Howard College and received her master's degree from Southwestern Seminary. She started her career as a pastor's secretary at Woodlawn Baptist Church when she completed her teaching degree. She taught at Hewitt Elementary for 29 years. She was a lifetime member of Woodlawn Baptist Church which became the Church at Liberty Park.

Dora Jane was best known for the years she spent caring for her mother and for her love of teaching.

Dora Jane is survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dora Jane Hicks, 90, passed away on March 7, 2023, in Birmingham, AL.

Dora Jane is preceded in death by George Hicks - father, Ozella Hicks - mother

George Hicks Jr,- brother, Sisters Doris H. Moon, Betty H Palmer, and Jackie H. Capps

The family wishes to thank the staff at Legacy Ridge Assisted Living for the wonderful care for the past two years.

Memorial donations can be made in Dora's name to the Activities Fund at Legacy Ridge Assisted Living in Trussville, AL.

Carolyn Farley

november 6, 1939 — march 7, 2023

Carolyn Lee Farley

November 6, 1939 ~ March 7, 2023

Carolyn Lee Farley, 83, of Springville, AL, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. She was born November 6, 1939. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Curtis, and her parents, Edwin and Nera Lee Mize.

She is survived by her daughter, Janet Brown (Keith), son, Darryl Farley (Lynn); four grandchildren, Beth Oakes, Chris Stephens, Robyn Wilson and Samantha Armstrong, and their spouses. She is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, of whom she was very proud and spoke of often. She is also survived by her lifelong best friend, Gerri Skelton.

Carolyn was a devoted member of the Methodist faith, serving in various congregations throughout her life alongside her husband, Curtis E. Farley. Carolyn and Curtis also enjoyed traveling with many good friends, both in the US and internationally, developing many wonderful memories.

Visitation will be held in the chapel at Jefferson Memorial in Trussville on Monday, March 13th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m., with burial in Jefferson Memorial Gardens. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Springville Methodist Church, 6471 US 11, Springville, Alabama 35146. www.springvillemethodist.com

Franklin Rusk

august 19, 1933 — march 9, 2023

Birmingham, Alabama Franklin O. Rusk age 89 of Center Point, AL died Thursday, March 9, 2023. Graveside services will be held Monday, March 13, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rachel B. Rusk. Mr. Rusk was owner of Rusk Mobile Home Park. He was retired from Grinnell Corporation also retired as a Major from the United States Air National Guard with 26 years of service. A Mason for 54 years; McCarty Farrar Lodge # 8. He is survived by his daughter, Sharen Grimm, Roswell GA.; daughter and son- in-law, Linda and George Maxey, Birmingham AL.; son and

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