How To Write Obituaries: Examples That Shine

Writing an obituary can feel like a monumental task. You’re tasked with crafting a tribute to a loved one, a narrative that encapsulates their life and legacy, often during a time of profound grief. It’s a challenging but incredibly important undertaking. This guide will walk you through the process, providing practical advice and examples to help you write an obituary that truly honors the individual.

The Core Elements: What Makes a Good Obituary?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s define what constitutes a well-written obituary. It’s more than just a list of dates and facts. A compelling obituary serves several vital purposes:

  • It Provides Information: It announces the death and shares essential details about the deceased.
  • It Celebrates a Life: It highlights the individual’s personality, accomplishments, and the impact they had on others.
  • It Offers Comfort: It provides solace to those grieving and allows them to remember and celebrate the departed.
  • It Directs Readers: It provides information about memorial services, donations, or other ways to honor the deceased.

Gathering Information: The Foundation of Your Obituary

The first step, and often the most difficult, is gathering the necessary information. Start by creating a comprehensive list. This list should include:

  • Full Name: Including any middle names and maiden names.
  • Date and Place of Birth: This is a fundamental piece of information.
  • Date and Place of Death: Essential for the announcement.
  • Age at Death: Calculated from the date of birth.
  • Immediate Family: Parents, spouse(s), children, and siblings.
  • Other Significant Relationships: Grandchildren, nieces/nephews, close friends.
  • Education and Career: Schools attended, degrees earned, and professional accomplishments.
  • Hobbies and Interests: What did they love to do? What were their passions?
  • Community Involvement: Were they involved in any organizations, volunteer work, or causes?
  • Significant Achievements: Awards, recognitions, or milestones.
  • A Memorable Quote or Saying: Something that captures their essence.
  • Details about Funeral or Memorial Services: Date, time, location, and any specific requests.
  • Donation Information: If applicable, where to make donations in their memory.

Crafting the Narrative: Bringing the Life to Life

Once you have gathered the information, it’s time to start writing. Think of the obituary as a story. Start with a concise announcement of the death, followed by a brief overview of the person’s life.

Structure and Tone: Finding the Right Voice

The tone of your obituary should be respectful and appropriate for the deceased. Consider these guidelines:

  • Formal vs. Informal: The tone should reflect the personality of the deceased. A more formal tone is often suitable for a professional or someone who preferred a more reserved style.
  • Honest and Authentic: Don’t be afraid to be genuine. Share anecdotes and memories that reflect the true character of the individual.
  • Focus on the Positive: While acknowledging the sadness of their passing, focus on celebrating their life and accomplishments.
  • Keep it Concise: Obituaries are often published in newspapers or online, so brevity is key.

Example Obituary Snippets: Inspiring Your Writing

Here are some examples to help you get started. Remember to adapt these to fit the individual’s life:

  • Example 1 (Formal): “Johnathan Michael Smith, beloved husband, father, and esteemed engineer, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2024, at the age of 78. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 5, 1946, Johnathan dedicated his life to his family, his career, and his community. He is survived by his wife, Sarah; his children, David and Emily; and his grandchildren, Michael and Jessica.”

  • Example 2 (Informal): “Margaret ‘Maggie’ Jones, a vibrant soul and a lover of life, left us on August 1, 2024, at the age of 65. Maggie was known for her infectious laugh, her love of gardening, and her unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed by her children, Tom and Susan, and her many friends.”

  • Example 3 (Focus on a Specific Accomplishment): “Dr. Eleanor Vance, a pioneering neurosurgeon, passed away on September 15, 2024, at the age of 82. Dr. Vance was a leader in her field, known for her groundbreaking research and her compassionate care for her patients. She is survived by her children, Robert and Carol, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals.”

Adding Personal Touches: Making It Memorable

To make your obituary truly special, consider incorporating these elements:

  • Share a Specific Memory: A brief anecdote about a cherished moment.
  • Highlight a Unique Trait: Describe a quality that made them special.
  • Mention Their Favorite Things: What were their favorite foods, hobbies, or places?
  • Include a Photo: A photograph can bring the obituary to life.
  • Add a Quote: A favorite saying or a quote that reflects their personality.

Practical Considerations: Formatting and Submission

Once you have written the obituary, you will need to format it and submit it for publication.

Formatting and Editing: Polishing Your Work

  • Proofread Carefully: Check for any grammatical errors or typos.
  • Keep it Concise: Aim for a balance between detail and brevity.
  • Consider the Publication’s Guidelines: Each publication (newspaper, website) will have its own requirements regarding length, format, and cost.
  • Ask a Friend to Review: A fresh pair of eyes can catch errors you may have missed.

Where to Publish: Choosing the Right Platform

  • Local Newspapers: Traditional and widely read, especially by older generations.
  • Online Memorial Sites: Offer more flexibility and often include options for sharing photos and videos.
  • Funeral Home Websites: A common and convenient option.
  • Social Media: Consider sharing the obituary on social media platforms to reach a wider audience.

Addressing the Difficulties: Navigating Grief and Writing

Writing an obituary is emotionally challenging. It’s important to allow yourself time to grieve and to be kind to yourself during this process. Don’t feel pressured to write it all at once. Take breaks when needed, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends.

FAQs About Writing Obituaries

Here are some frequently asked questions, offering additional insights:

  • How long should an obituary be? The length depends on the publication. Most newspapers have word limits, typically between 100 and 300 words. Online, you have more flexibility. The goal is to be comprehensive without being overly verbose.

  • Can I include a list of surviving family members? Yes, this is standard practice. Include immediate family, such as spouse, children, and parents. You can also include other significant family members like grandchildren, siblings, and close friends, depending on the length and your preference.

  • What if the deceased had no family? If the deceased had no immediate family, you can still write an obituary. Focus on their friends, their community involvement, and their accomplishments. You can also include information about their pets or any organizations they were affiliated with.

  • How much does it cost to publish an obituary? The cost varies depending on the publication and the length of the obituary. Newspapers typically charge by the word or by the line. Online publications may have different pricing structures. Contact the publication for specific pricing information.

  • Can I include a call to action in the obituary? Yes, you can include information about memorial services, donations, or other ways to honor the deceased. This is often placed at the end of the obituary.

Conclusion: Honoring the Legacy

Writing an obituary is a powerful act of remembrance. By carefully gathering information, crafting a compelling narrative, and adding personal touches, you can create a tribute that truly honors the life and legacy of your loved one. This guide provides a comprehensive framework, with examples and practical advice, to help you navigate this sensitive process with grace and respect. Remember to focus on celebrating the life lived, sharing the memories, and offering comfort to those who grieve. The obituary is a lasting testament to the impact the individual had on the world, a final gift of love and remembrance.