An obituary is a notice of a person's death. It is usually published in a newspaper or online. It typically includes a brief biography of the deceased and where a viewing or funeral will be taking place. If your loved one has just passed away, you'll want to represent him or her in the best manner possible. If you're feeling overwhelmed by writing an obituary, this guide will help you through the process.
The First Steps
Check with your local newspaper or funeral home before writing an obituary. Many funeral homes will provide you with a basic format as part of the services they provide, and some newspapers have specific guidelines for the length or format of the obituary. Call your local newspaper or funeral home to learn any rules for writing an obituary.
The Basic Format
An obituary generally includes biographical information about the deceased. Include what you feel comfortable sharing, such as the following:
- Full name of the deceased
- Dates and locations of birth, marriage, and death
- Cause of death
- Predeceased and surviving loved ones' names
- Schools attended
- Military service
- Place of employment and position held
- Organization affiliations
- Hobbies and special interests
You can also include service or funeral information in the obituary. Include the address of the service and times, if possible. You should mention if the funeral is private. Simply state "Burial will be private." Plan to publish the obituary at least one or two days in advance.
If the family prefers monetary contributions rather than flowers, you should include such information as well. A delicate way of requesting money is adding, "In lieu of flowers, please consider the needs of the family," or, "Contributions to the family suggested," or even, "The family is requesting financial assistance for the services."
Example Obituary
Samplesville – John Smith, 89, died Saturday, December 8, 2015, at Mercy Heart Hospital in Samplesville following a brief illness. He leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Sharon Smith, and his daughter, Sarah Smith.
Mr. Smith was born in Sample City, Virginia, on June 13, 1926, to Jason and Valerie Smith. Mr. Smith graduated summa cum laude from Johns Hopkins University. He then dedicated his life to helping children survive lung cancer. For Mr. Smith, it was more than a job. Saving lives was the most important thing he felt he could do.
He also had a passion for animals, which he dedicated his life to after retiring from Johns Hopkins. Mr. and Mrs. Smith sheltered dozens of rescued Greyhounds, training them and finding loving homes for them later in life.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith loved the community of First Methodist Church, and Mr. Smith served on its board of directors for one year. He was well known for never missing a Sunday service and participating with avid joy.
Funeral services will be held at Samplesville Funeral Home on December 12, 2016, followed by a private burial. The family requests that donations be made to Samplesville Cancer Foundation in lieu of flowers.
