Dear Abby: Old Friend Passes Away During 'Off-Again' Phase
The writer says the obituary gave no cause of death and a returned condolence letter left the widow’s whereabouts unknown.
- An estranged friend recently discovered that Ben, a 30-year companion, died nearly a year ago without notification. The writer seeks the cause of death, which the online obituary did not mention.
- The two maintained a 30-year friendship marked by ups and downs before a periodic blowout three years ago severed communication. Despite the estrangement, the writer still cared about Ben.
- After a condolence letter to Ben's wife was returned, the writer discovered she had moved from their home. The writer located a Facebook page for the widow but hesitated, viewing it as an impersonal way to reach out.
- Abby advised against contacting the widow online, warning that such an approach is 'off-putting, insensitive and possibly hurtful' given the estrangement. She suggested checking with mutual friends instead.
- Dear Abby, founded in 1956 by Pauline Phillips, has been written by Jeanne Phillips for nearly four decades and continues addressing inquiries regarding grief and social etiquette.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Dear Abby: Had falling-out with friend, would like to know details of his death
<p><b>DEAR ABBY:</b> My friend "Ben" and I had many ups and downs in our 30-year friendship. Three years ago, we had one of our periodic blowouts and stopped speaking. I found out recently that he passed away a year later, and I was never informed. The obituary I found online does not mention a cause of death.</p><p>I wrote a letter of condolence to his wife, but it was returned, and I found out that she moved away from the house where she and B…
The Herald-Dispatch
Charleston Gazette-MailDear Abby: Good, but fickle, friend dies during an 'off-again' phase
DEAR ABBY: My friend “Ben” and I had many ups and downs in our 30-year friendship. Three years ago, we had one of our periodic blowouts and stopped speaking. I found out recently that he died a year later, and…
The Mercury news
East Bay TimesDear Abby: I want to know how my friend died. My letter to his widow was returned.
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