How to write an obituary
Writing an obituary is a thoughtful process that serves multiple purposes: it informs others of a loved one’s passing, celebrates their life, and records important details for historical and genealogical records. A memorable obituary captures the essence of the individual, sharing their story in a way that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impression. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting an obituary that honours your loved one beautifully.
Start with the Basics
- Full Name and Age: Begin with their full name, including any nicknames or titles, and their age at the time of passing.
- Date and Place of Death: Provide the date and place of death, which is a key detail for historical records.
- Brief Mention of Cause: If appropriate, you may include a brief mention of the cause of death, but it’s not a requirement.
Celebrate Their Life
- Biographical Sketch: Offer a concise biography that includes birthdate, place of birth, parents’ names, and significant life events such as education, marriage, career milestones, and retirement.
- Personal Traits and Achievements: Highlight their personality traits, achievements, hobbies, and passions. What made them unique? How did they impact the lives of those around them?
Acknowledge Family Connections
- Survivors and Predeceased: List the names of family members who have survived them, as well as those who have predeceased. This typically includes close family such as spouses, children, grandchildren, siblings, and parents.
- Include Memorable Stories or Quotes
- Stories and Anecdotes: Share a story or anecdote that captures their spirit or a moment that was quintessentially them. This adds a personal touch that makes the obituary more engaging.
- Favourite Quotes or Sayings: If they had a favourite saying, joke, or piece of advice they were known for, including it can add a meaningful layer to the obituary.
Service Information
Funeral Arrangements: Provide details of the funeral service, including date, time, and location. If there are specific requests, such as donations to a charity instead of flowers, mention them here.
Final Thoughts
Conclude with a reflection on their legacy or a final message from the family. This is an opportunity to express love, gratitude, or a farewell message. Some tips for writing a memorable obituary would be to write in a way that truly reflects the personality and life of your loved one. Authenticity resonates with readers. Keep it readable and include key details, aim for clarity and brevity to ensure it’s accessible to everyone.
Writing a memorable obituary is a meaningful way to honour a loved one’s life and legacy. By following these steps and focusing on what made them special, you can create an obituary that not only informs but also touches the hearts of those who knew them. Remember, an obituary is a celebration of life; it should reflect the love, joy, and impact your loved one had on the world around them.
