How to Write an Obituary: Comprehensive Guide with Samples and Templates

Writing an obituary can be a daunting task, especially during a time of grief. It is an important piece of writing that honors the life of a loved one and informs others of their passing. In this guide, we will provide detailed instructions on how to write an obituary, along with samples and templates to help you create a heartfelt tribute.

Understanding the Purpose of an Obituary

An obituary serves several purposes. It announces the death of a loved one, provides a brief biography, and offers information about the funeral or memorial service. More importantly, it celebrates the life of the deceased, highlighting their accomplishments, character, and impact on others.

Steps on How to Write an Obituary

1. Gather Information

Before you start writing, gather all necessary information about the deceased. This includes their full name, date and place of birth, date and place of death, key life events, family members, and funeral service details.

2. Start with Basic Details

Begin the obituary with basic details such as the full name of the deceased, their age, and where they lived. For example:

John Doe, 75, of Springfield, passed away on June 10, 2024.

3. Include Biographical Information

Next, provide a brief biography. Highlight significant life events, accomplishments, and personal qualities. Focus on what made the person unique and loved by others.

4. Mention Family Members

List surviving family members and those who preceded the deceased in death. This often includes spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings.

5. Funeral Service Details

Provide information about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location. If there is a request for donations instead of flowers, include this information as well.

Using an Obituary Template

If you find it challenging to start, consider using an obituary template. Templates can guide you through the process by providing a structured format to follow. Here is an example of an obituary template:

[Full Name], [Age], of [City, State], passed away on [Date] at [Location]. [First Name] was born on [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth] to [Parent's Names]. [He/She] attended [School] and worked as a [Occupation] at [Workplace]. [First Name] is survived by [List of Surviving Family Members]. A funeral service will be held at [Location] on [Date and Time]. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [Charity Name].

Examples of Obituaries

Here are read more some examples of obituaries to help you see how different elements come together:

Example 1: Jane Smith, 82, of Miami, FL, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2024. Jane was born on March 12, 1942, in Brooklyn, NY, to John and Mary Johnson. She graduated from Miami High School in 1960 and married her high school sweetheart, Robert Smith, in 1963. Jane was a beloved teacher at Miami Elementary School for over 30 years. She is survived by her three children, Michael, Susan, and Linda, and seven grandchildren. A celebration of Jane's life will be held at Miami Community Church on June 12, 2024, at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Miami Children's Hospital.

Example 2: Richard Brown, 90, of Denver, CO, passed away on June 1, 2024. Richard was born on January 5, 1934, in Denver to William and Elizabeth Brown. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and later worked as an engineer at Boeing for 40 years. Richard enjoyed hiking, fishing, and spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, his children, David and Lisa, and four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Denver Veterans Memorial Park on June 15, 2024, at 2:00 PM. Donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Tips for Writing a Meaningful Obituary

Here are some tips to help you write a meaningful obituary:

• Be Honest: Write truthfully about the deceased, focusing on their positive qualities and accomplishments.


• Keep it Concise: While it's important to include key details, keep the obituary concise and to the point.


• Use a Warm Tone: Use a warm and respectful tone to honor the deceased.


• Seek Input: Consult with family members to ensure all important details are included.


• Edit Carefully: Proofread the obituary carefully to avoid any errors or omissions.

Writing an obituary is a heartfelt way to honor and remember a loved one. By following these steps and using the provided obituary samples and templates, you can create a meaningful tribute that captures the essence of the deceased's life. Remember to include all necessary details and personalize the obituary to reflect the individual's unique journey.