Etowah County Reports Rise in Unclaimed Bodies, Officials Seek Long-Term Solutions

TWLN Staff Reporter | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

ETOWAH COUNTY, Ala. — Funeral home directors in Etowah County report a growing number of unclaimed bodies, raising concerns about dignity, responsibility, and long-term solutions for those who pass away without family or friends stepping forward to make final arrangements.

In many cases, the deceased are left at hospitals or funeral homes due to family estrangement, lack of contact, or financial hardship. West Gadsden Funeral Home owner Dantez Robinson says funeral homes are often placed in a difficult position, balancing compassion with procedural requirements while awaiting direction.

According to Robinson, if a body remains unclaimed for approximately two weeks, the funeral home contacts the Etowah County Coroner’s Office. If the coroner does not assume responsibility, paperwork is then filed through the probate judge to seek burial assistance. Etowah County currently provides a $450 fee to cover cremation costs for unclaimed remains.

Etowah County Probate Judge Scott Hassell says the number of unclaimed bodies has steadily increased over the years. He emphasized that every individual deserves dignity and respect in death, regardless of personal circumstances.

Judge Hassell noted that he has asked county commissioners to explore long-term options, including the potential purchase of a shared crypt that could respectfully house remains when no next of kin can be located.

Robinson added that financial hardship should never be the sole reason a loved one goes unclaimed, stating that many funeral homes are willing to work with families who are transparent about their situation.

Discussions between Judge Hassell and Etowah County commissioners regarding possible solutions are ongoing.

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©️2026 The Weekly Ledger News. All rights reserved. This story was originally reported by WBRC.

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