How to Write an Obituary

Templates

Guide to Writing an Obituary

An obituary is a way to honor someone’s life and inform others of their passing. Here’s a simple guide to writing a respectful and meaningful obituary:

  1. Announce the Passing
    Begin with a brief announcement of the person’s passing, including their name, age, and date of death.

  2. Provide Basic Information
    Share some essential details about their life, like where they were born, their family members, and important life milestones (education, career, accomplishments).

  3. Share Their Legacy
    Mention what they were known for and what made them special, such as hobbies, community involvement, or memorable personality traits.

  4. List Surviving Family Members
    Include immediate family members, such as spouses, children, siblings, and sometimes grandchildren.

  5. Add Funeral or Memorial Details
    If there’s a planned service, provide the date, time, and location so others can attend or pay their respects.

  6. Optional Closing
    You might add a final line or quote that reflects the person’s character or how they’ll be remembered, or request donations to a charity in their memory.

Sample Obituaries

Sample 1: Short and Simple

"[Full Name], age [Age], passed away peacefully on [Date] in [Location]. Born on [Birth Date] in [Birthplace], [Name] was known for [a brief highlight, e.g., “their kindness and dedication to family”]. They are survived by their loving family, including [Spouse’s Name], children [Children’s Names], and [Number of Grandchildren] grandchildren. Services will be held on [Date] at [Location]."

Sample 2: Full Obituary with Personal Touch

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of [Full Name], who left us on [Date] at the age of [Age]. Born on [Birth Date] in [Birthplace], [Name] was a beloved [profession, e.g., “teacher”] and a dedicated member of the [Community or Organization, if applicable].

[Name] spent over [number] years at [Place of Work or Contribution], where they touched the lives of countless people. Known for [noteworthy personality traits, e.g., “their warm smile and generous spirit”], they enjoyed [hobbies or passions, e.g., “gardening, painting, and volunteering”] and always put family first.

They are survived by [Spouse’s Name], [Children’s Names], and [list other family members or important relationships]. A service to honor [Name’s] life will be held at [Location] on [Date] at [Time]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to [Charity or Cause] in [Name’s] memory."

Sample 3: For a Young Person

"We are heartbroken to share the passing of [Full Name], age [Age], on [Date]. Born on [Birth Date] in [Birthplace], [Name] was a vibrant and loving [relationship to family or school, e.g., “daughter, sister, and student at [School Name]”]. Known for their [character traits, e.g., “passion for animals and love of music”], [Name] brought joy to everyone they met.

[Name] will be dearly missed by [Parents’ Names], siblings [Siblings’ Names], grandparents, and friends. A celebration of [Name’s] life will be held on [Date] at [Location]. We ask that attendees bring a small item representing a shared memory or [Name’s] interests. Donations in their honor may be made to [Charity or Cause, e.g., “the local animal shelter”]."

Sample 4: Reflective and Uplifting

"[Full Name] passed away on [Date] at the age of [Age]. Born in [Birthplace] and raised in [Hometown], [Name] lived a life full of love and kindness. They were a devoted [role, e.g., “husband, father, and friend”], known for their love of [hobbies, e.g., “baking, hiking, and storytelling”].

[Name] spent much of their career at [Place of Employment], making a difference in the lives of those they worked with. They are survived by their beloved spouse, [Spouse’s Name], their children [Children’s Names], and grandchildren. A private family service will be held, and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date."

Sample 5: Brief, Focusing on Legacy

"[Full Name] passed away on [Date] in [Location] at the age of [Age]. Born on [Birth Date] in [Birthplace], [Name] was a loving [family roles, e.g., “mother, grandmother, and friend”]. Known for their [qualities, e.g., “dedication to family, faith, and community service”], [Name] left a lasting legacy.

They are survived by their children [Children’s Names] and grandchildren. Services will be held at [Location] on [Date] at [Time]. In remembrance, donations can be made to [Charity or Cause] that was close to [Name’s] heart."

When writing an obituary, focus on capturing the essence of the person’s life and personality. It’s an opportunity to honor and celebrate their legacy.

WhatsApp Obituary Message

Hello everyone,

It is with deep sorrow that we inform you of the passing of [Full Name], who left us on [Date]. [He/She/They] was a beloved [relation, e.g., “mother, father, friend”] to many and will be dearly missed.

A service to honor [His/Her/Their] life will be held on [Date] at [Time] at [Location]. We invite you to join us as we remember and celebrate the life of [Name].

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to [Charity or Cause, if applicable]. Thank you for your love and support during this difficult time.

Warm regards,
[Your Name or Family Name]

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