Health officials have issued an urgent appeal to families of several deceased individuals to claim their loved ones’ remains by Friday, 21 November 2025, or risk having them buried in a public cemetery. The Office of the Chief Health Inspector announced that the unclaimed bodies are currently stored at Barnes Funeral Home and Straffie’s Funeral Home. Families are encouraged to contact the funeral homes promptly to organize private burials. Authorities emphasized that once public interments occur, no further legal claims will be permitted. At Barnes Funeral Home, the remains of Isaac Roacher remain unclaimed, and relatives are urged to contact Jessica Barnes at 462-1037. Straffie’s Funeral Home is holding the bodies of Purcell Hamilton (passed away on 2 February 2025), Sylvester Hunte (29 April 2025), and Richard Farara (29 August 2025). Families should reach out to Leigh Ferrance at 462-0575 or 462-2954. Officials underscored that the deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure the dignified treatment of the deceased.
Health Officials Urge Families to Claim Unclaimed Bodies Before Deadline
