Hello all, I'm wondering if anyone can provide me tips in researching when the name of the person can and has been spelled several ways. I'm looking for my great grandmother. She was born, raised and died in Lee County, Ar. She was born in 1902. Her name at birth was Elmetta Harris. But however, its been spelled Alamaeda (her marriage certificate from 1919), Almetta on other family documents and other variations.

Can anyone advise, what is the best way to research when you encounter this. I have not been able to find her in the census at all. She died in 1970 and I can't even find social security index information.

If you have insight, please advise.