Publication: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, IL
Author: Cody Bozarth
Publish Date: October 11, 2009
Article Excerpt:
Even death is becoming high-tech.
The city’s cemetery board hopes to soon have a digital record of graves that would allow people to go online and locate anyone’s final resting place.
“Anyone can get on the Internet and type the deceased’s name and find what [plots] they own, where they’re at and other information,” Jacksonville Cemeteries Superintendent Jim Pierson said.
The project would involve a global positioning system-coordinated digital mapping of the city’s cemeteries.
Much of the funding for the project would come from an estate bequest, but additional funding sources are still being sought.
After its completion, it should provide for superior record-keeping as well as public research.
While this project is being designed as a public service, it also benefits those who operate and maintain local cemeteries.