How to Write an Obituary: A Guide with an Example Format

An obituary serves as a written announcement of a loved one’s passing while celebrating their life and legacy. Writing an obituary can feel like a daunting task, especially when emotions are high, but having a clear format can make the process smoother. This guide outlines the essential elements of an obituary and provides a customizable example format to help you honor your loved one.

What Should an Obituary Include?

A well-crafted obituary typically includes the following elements:

• Announcement of Death
  • The full name of the deceased, including any nicknames or titles (e.g., Dr., Rev., etc.).
  • The date and location of passing.
  • A brief statement about the cause of death (if the family chooses to share it).
• Biographical Information
  • Date and place of birth.
  • Key milestones in their life (e.g., education, career, marriage, children).
  • Hobbies, passions, or significant achievements.
• Family Information
  • Names of surviving family members (spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings, etc.).
  • Names of predeceased family members (if desired).
• Details About the Funeral or Memorial Service
  • Date, time, and location of the service.
  • Information about visitation or any other commemorative events.
• Acknowledgments or Memorial Contributions
  • Gratitude to specific individuals, caregivers, or organizations.
  • Requests for donations to charities in lieu of flowers.

Example Obituary Format

Here’s an example format you can use and customize:

[Full Name], [Age], of [City, State], passed away peacefully on [Date] at [Location] surrounded by loved ones.

[First Name] was born on [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth] to [Parents’ Names]. [He/She/They] attended [School/College Name] and pursued a career in [Career/Profession]. [First Name] was known for [significant achievements, hobbies, or qualities].

[First Name] is survived by [list of family members, including relationships]. [He/She/They] was predeceased by [list predeceased family members, if desired].

A [type of service, e.g., funeral, memorial service, celebration of life] will be held on [Date] at [Time] at [Location]. Family and friends are welcome to attend to honor and celebrate [First Name]’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to [Charity/Organization] in [First Name]’s memory.

[Optional Closing Statement or Quote]
*“To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die.” – Thomas Campbell*

Tips for Writing an Obituary

• Keep It Personal: Share details that highlight the deceased’s unique personality, such as hobbies, favorite pastimes, or quirks.
• Focus on Clarity: Write in clear, concise sentences to ensure the obituary is easy to read and understand.
• Collaborate: Involve close family members or friends to ensure important details are included.
• Be Mindful of Length: Many newspapers or online platforms have word count limits for obituaries, so check their guidelines before submitting.

Final Thoughts

Writing an obituary is an opportunity to celebrate the life of your loved one while informing others of their passing. By including the essential elements and tailoring the format to reflect their unique story, you can craft a meaningful tribute that honors their memory.

If you find the process overwhelming, EulogyLab can help. Our platform guides you step-by-step, helping you create a heartfelt and polished obituary with ease. Let us help you honor your loved one with the care and attention they deserve.