What to Put in An Obituary

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience, and creating an obituary is a significant part of honoring their memory. An obituary not only serves as a formal record of their passing but also celebrates their life and legacy, providing essential details for family, friends, and future generations. If you’re tasked with writing an obituary, you might be wondering what to include. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.

What Should an Obituary Include?

Announcement of Death

An obituary starts with a clear announcement of the decedent’s passing. This should include their name, age, date of death, and a brief mention of their family relationships. For instance:

“On Friday, September 12, 2018, Jane Doe, loving wife and mother of three children, passed away at the age of 77.”

What Basic Biographical Information Is Essential?

An obituary should include key biographical details about the deceased. This typically covers their birth date, upbringing, education, marriage details, work experience, and any notable achievements. Providing this information helps surviving family members and future generations understand the decedent’s life journey.

How Can You Capture Their Unique Life Story?

Beyond basic facts, an obituary should celebrate the unique aspects of the decedent’s life. Reflect on their personality, passions, hobbies, and memorable experiences. This part of the obituary paints a vivid picture of who they were, honoring their legacy in a meaningful way.

Overview of Family Information

Obituaries often include details about the decedent’s family, both those who have passed before them and surviving relatives. This may include parents, siblings, children, and grandchildren. You might also list close relatives like aunts, uncles, and step-family members. Names of immediate family members are usually included, while more distant relatives are mentioned more generally.

What Details Should Be Included About Funeral Services?

The final section of the obituary provides essential information about the funeral arrangements. This includes the name and address of the funeral home, the details of the service, and any information on burial or memorial services. You may also include details on where to send donations or flowers and how to offer condolences.

Find an obituary for a specific person: For assistance in locating an obituary, visit How to Find an Obituary for a Specific Person.

FAQ

Q: What should an obituary include?
A: An obituary should include the announcement of death, basic biographical information, a unique portrayal of the decedent’s life story, family details, and information about funeral services.

Q: How can I capture the unique life story of a deceased person in an obituary?
A: Highlight their personality traits, hobbies, passions, and significant life experiences. This helps to create a vivid and meaningful representation of who they were.

Q: What biographical information is important to include in an obituary?
A: Key details include the decedent’s birth date, upbringing, education, marriage history, work experience, and notable achievements.

Q: How should I include family information in an obituary?
A: List immediate family members by name, and include more distant relatives in a general manner. Mention both those who have passed and surviving family members.

Q: What details about funeral services should be included in an obituary?
A: Provide the name and address of the funeral home, details about the service, burial or memorial arrangements, and information on where to send donations or flowers.