How To Write An Obituary

How To Format An Obituary

An obituary is a notice of a person's death, typically including a brief biographical sketch and a list of the person's survivors. Here is a general format you can use to write an obituary:

Start with the person's full name and any relevant titles or honorifics (e.g. Dr., Reverend, etc.)
Provide the dates of the person's birth and death.
Give a brief overview of the person's life and accomplishments, including education, career, family, and any notable achievements or contributions.
Mention any surviving family members, such as a spouse, children, and siblings.
Include details about the person's funeral or memorial service, such as the date, time, and location.
Finish with a quote or message from the person or a statement about their character or legacy.

Here is an example of an obituary (Obituary Template):

John Doe (1962-2022)

John Doe, 60, passed away on January 1, 2022, after a long battle with illness. He was born in Springfield, Illinois, on April 1, 1962, and graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in engineering.

John had a successful career in the tech industry, working for several top companies before starting his own business. He was a loving husband to his wife, Jane, and a devoted father to his two children, Sarah and Michael.

John was known for his quick wit and generous spirit. He enjoyed spending time with his family, travelling, and playing golf.

A funeral service will be held at St. Mary's Church on January 5, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

"John always put others before himself, and his kindness and compassion will be deeply missed."

What Pictures to Add to an Obituary

It is common to include a photograph of the person in an obituary. The photograph can be one from their younger years or a more recent one. Including a photograph can help personalize the obituary and give readers a visual image of the person.

If you are including a photograph, make sure to choose a high-quality image that is appropriate for the occasion. It is also a good idea to obtain permission from the person in the photograph (or their surviving family members) before using it in the obituary.

In addition to a photograph, you may also choose to include other graphics or artwork in the obituary. This could be a symbol or emblem that was meaningful to the person or a graphic design that reflects their interests or personality. Just be sure to keep the overall tone and style of the obituary respectful and appropriate.

What to Include in an Obituary

Keep it brief: An obituary is typically a brief summary of a person's life, so try to keep it concise. Focus on the most important information and highlight the person's most significant accomplishments and contributions.
Use a respectful tone: An obituary is a way to honour and remember a person who has passed away, so it is important to use a respectful tone. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and avoid saying anything negative about the person.
Include important details: Make sure to include all of the necessary information in the obituary, such as the person's full name, birth and death dates, and details about their surviving family members. Also, be sure to include information about the funeral or memorial service, such as the date, time, and location.
Proofread: It is important to proofread the obituary carefully before publishing it to ensure that it is accurate and free of errors.
Consider the audience: Think about who will be reading the obituary and what they might want to know about the person. For example, if the person had a wide circle of friends and was involved in various community organizations, you may want to include details about these connections in the obituary.
Seek help if needed: Writing an obituary can be emotionally difficult, especially if you are grieving the loss of a loved one. If you need help or support, don't be afraid to ask for it. You can seek guidance from a trusted friend or family member, or consider hiring a professional obituary writer to assist you.

The Best Way to Write an Obituary is to Make it Memorable and Real

An obituary is a way to remember and honour a person who has passed away, and to inform others of their death and any related details. Here are a few tips for making an obituary memorable:

Personalize it: An obituary is an opportunity to celebrate the person's life, so be sure to include details that are specific to their personality, interests, and accomplishments. Consider including quotes or anecdotes that capture their unique character and spirit.
Include photos: Including photographs of the person can help make the obituary more personal and memorable. Choose high-quality photos that show the person at different stages of their life, or that capture special moments or memories.
Be respectful: It is important to remember that an obituary is a formal document and to use a respectful tone and language. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and avoid saying anything negative about the person.
Seek help if needed: Writing an obituary can be emotionally difficult, especially if you are grieving the loss of a loved one. If you need help or support, don't be afraid to ask for it. You can seek guidance from a trusted friend or family member, or consider hiring a professional obituary writer to assist you.
Be concise: While an obituary is an opportunity to remember and honour the person, it is also important to be concise. Focus on the most important details and accomplishments, and avoid including too much unnecessary information.

By following these tips, you can create an obituary that is memorable, personal, and respectful, and that truly captures the essence of the person being remembered.

What does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost to publish an obituary can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the length of the obituary, the newspaper or website where it is published, and the location of the publication.

In general, the cost to publish an obituary newspaper can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the length of the obituary and the circulation of the newspaper. Many newspapers offer packages that include an obituary as well as an online version, which can be more cost-effective.

It is worth noting that some newspapers and websites may offer discounts or reduced rates for obituaries, especially for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. If you are considering publishing an obituary, it is a good idea to shop around and compare prices to find the best option for your needs and budget.