Writing the Perfect Obituary: Guide With Examples and Templates
Use our obituary examples and templates to use as inspiration to write your own carefully crafted obituary, or use our AI tool that does it all for you.
Whether you’re struggling to find the right words or simply need some inspiration, this article is designed to assist individuals in the consideration stage of the obituary writing process.
Learn how to honor your loved one’s memory with a beautifully written obituary, and even use AI to generate one in just 1 minute with Obituary Bot.
Understanding the Purpose of an Obituary
Writing an obituary is a meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one who has passed away and serves several important purposes:
- Honoring the memory of a loved one: An obituary provides an opportunity to celebrate the life and accomplishments of the deceased, allowing family members and friends to reflect on their impact.
- Informing the community about the passing: Obituaries are often published in local newspapers or online platforms to notify the community of the individual’s death.
- Providing details about the funeral or memorial service: Obituaries typically include information about the upcoming service, allowing friends and acquaintances to pay their respects.
Writing an obituary also provides a sense of closure for the family and friends of the deceased. It allows them to gather and share memories, offer support to one another, and find comfort in the community’s condolences.
An obituary can serve as a historical record, preserving the legacy of the individual for future generations to learn about and appreciate. It is a way to ensure that the impact of their life is remembered and cherished for years to come.
Gathering Information for the Obituary
When writing an obituary, it’s essential to gather the following types of information:
- Basic biographical details: This includes the individual’s full name, age, place of residence, and date of passing.
- Significant life events and achievements: Highlight important milestones such as education, career accomplishments, and community involvement.
- Personal anecdotes and memories: Gather stories and memories from family members and friends to capture the essence of the individual’s life.
It’s also important to consider the individual’s passions, hobbies, and interests. Including these personal elements can provide a more holistic view of the person’s life and help to paint a vivid picture of who they were.
Whether it’s their love for gardening, their dedication to a particular cause, or their talent for storytelling, these unique aspects can add depth and richness to the obituary, allowing readers to connect with the individual on a more personal level.
Crafting a Heartfelt Tribute
To create a heartfelt tribute in the obituary, consider the following:
- Choosing the right tone and language: Tailor the language and tone of the obituary to reflect the individual’s personality and values.
- Incorporating meaningful quotes or passages: Include quotes, poems, or passages that hold significance to the deceased or their loved ones.
- Highlighting the impact of the individual’s life: Emphasize the ways in which the individual positively influenced the lives of others.
You’ll also want to gather personal anecdotes and stories from family and friends to truly capture the essence of the individual’s life.
These stories can provide a deeper understanding of the impact the deceased had on those around them and can help to paint a more vivid picture of their personality and values.
Be sure to include details about the individual’s accomplishments, hobbies, and passions to showcase the fullness of their life.
Structuring the Obituary
A well-structured obituary includes the following components:
- Introduction with the announcement of the passing: Begin the obituary with a brief announcement of the individual’s passing, including the date and place of death.
- Biographical information and key life events: Provide a summary of the individual’s life, including important milestones and achievements.
- Surviving family members and funeral details: List surviving family members and include information about the upcoming funeral or memorial service.
- Closing remarks and thank you message: Conclude the obituary with a thoughtful message of gratitude to those who have offered support and condolences.
Gather necessary information such as the deceased person’s full name, date of birth, date of death, and any significant accomplishments or contributions.
Write a brief introduction that includes the person’s full name, age at the time of death, and place of residence. Include a brief biography that highlights the person’s life, career, hobbies, and any other important details.
Mention the surviving family members, including immediate family and close relatives. Include details about any funeral or memorial service arrangements, including the date, time, and location.
Proofread the obituary for any errors or omissions, and ensure that it accurately reflects the deceased person’s life and legacy.
Submit the obituary to the chosen publication or website for publication, following any specific guidelines or requirements they may have.
Examples of Well-Written Obituaries
Here are examples of well-written obituaries that effectively capture the essence of the deceased. These are obituary examples, and are written of ficticious people and situations, and any similarities are purely coincidental.
Obituary for a beloved parent
This obituary beautifully conveys the love and admiration of a child for their parent, highlighting cherished memories and the impact of the parent’s guidance.
In Loving Memory of Thomas “Tom” Andrews
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Thomas “Tom” Andrews, our loving and devoted father, who left us peacefully on March 25, 2024, at the age of 74. A resident of Springfield, Tom was a beacon of joy, strength, and wisdom in our lives, celebrated for his unwavering kindness and the laughter he brought to every room.
Born on January 15, 1950, in Springfield, Tom was a man of simple pleasures. He found happiness in the pages of a good book, the quiet of early mornings, and most importantly, in the time spent with his family. His legacy is carried on through his children, Michael and Anna, whom he raised with love, patience, and an endless supply of dad jokes that were as endearing as they were groan-worthy.
Tom was a guiding light in our lives, teaching us the value of hard work, the importance of kindness, and the power of a positive outlook. He was our biggest cheerleader, always there to support us, celebrate our successes, and pick us up during our lowest moments.
A private celebration of Tom’s life will be held by the family, where we will share stories, laughter, and tears, honoring the incredible man who touched our lives in so many beautiful ways. We invite those who knew him to remember Tom by spreading kindness in their daily lives, just as he always did.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Springfield Community Library, a place that held a special place in Tom’s heart.
Tom, thank you for every lesson, every hug, and every moment of unconditional love. You will forever be in our hearts, guiding us with your light.
Obituary for a respected community member
This obituary celebrates the contributions of an individual to their community, acknowledging their achievements and the legacy they leave behind.
Remembering Jordan Lee: A Pillar of Our Community
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jordan Lee, a distinguished and cherished member of the Dover community, on April 2, 2024, at the age of 68. Jordan’s life was a testament to service, leadership, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on May 12, 1956, in Dover, Jordan dedicated much of his life to enriching the community he loved so dearly. From serving on the city council to volunteering countless hours at the local food bank, his commitment to making Dover a better place was unwavering. Jordan’s leadership in establishing the Dover Community Garden not only greened our city but brought us closer together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Jordan is survived by his loving spouse, Alex, his children, Sam and Casey, and a community that will forever be grateful for his contributions. He was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of generosity and kindness that inspires us all.
A memorial service celebrating Jordan’s life will be held on April 10, 2024, at the Dover Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Dover Environmental Fund, an organization close to Jordan’s heart, to continue his legacy of community improvement and connection.
Jordan’s absence leaves a void in our hearts, but his spirit and the profound impact he made will continue to inspire and guide us. May we honor his memory by living up to the example he set, working together to enrich the lives of those around us.
Obituary for a cherished friend
This obituary reflects the deep bond between friends, sharing heartfelt anecdotes and expressing the profound loss felt by those left behind.
A Tribute to Emily Harris: A True Friend and Beautiful Soul
With hearts full of love yet heavy with loss, we bid farewell to Emily Harris, our beloved friend who left us too soon on April 5, 2024, at the young age of 35. Emily’s vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering kindness made her a cherished companion and a light in the lives of all who knew her.
Emily, a native of Austin, Texas, had the unique gift of making everyone feel like they were her best friend. She was the one we turned to in times of joy and sorrow, knowing she would offer her unwavering support, wise counsel, or simply a shoulder to lean on. Her passion for adventure brought us on countless journeys, each filled with laughter and memories we will treasure forever.
Her legacy is carried on by a circle of friends who were more like family, united by the love and camaraderie she fostered among us. Emily taught us the true meaning of friendship, showing us that a kind word, a listening ear, and an open heart can make all the difference in someone’s life.
In honoring Emily’s memory, we will gather for a sunset vigil at Zilker Park on April 10, 2024, to share stories, tears, and laughter, just as she would have wanted. We invite all who loved her to join us in celebrating the beautiful impact she had on our lives.
Instead of flowers, we encourage acts of kindness in Emily’s name. Reach out to a friend in need, explore a new place, or simply share a moment of joy with others, as Emily so often did.
Emily, you were a rare gem in this world. Your friendship was a gift we will forever hold dear, and though we miss you deeply, your spirit will always be with us, guiding and inspiring. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Using Templates for Guidance
Templates can provide a helpful framework for crafting an obituary. Consider using the following types of templates:
Simple, short obituary template:
A straightforward template that outlines the essential components of an obituary, making it easy to organize information.
[Full Name], [Age]
[City of Residence], [State/Province] — [Full Name], [Age], of [City of Residence], passed away [Date of Death] due to [Cause of Death, if you wish to include it]. Born on [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth] to [Parents’ Names], [he/she/they] lived a life marked by [Brief Summary of Life Achievements, Qualities, or Career Highlights].
[He/She/They] is survived by [List of Immediate Family Members: Spouse, Children, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Parents, Siblings]. [Optional: Preceded in death by Family Members].
[Personal Anecdote or Story that Highlights Personality or Life Achievements]. [He/She/They] will be remembered for [Qualities, Achievements, Contributions to Community or Family].
A [Funeral Service/Memorial Service/Celebration of Life] will be held on [Date and Time] at [Location], [Address], officiated by [Officiant’s Name]. [Optional: Burial/Interment will follow at [Cemetery Name], [Location]]. [Information about Visitation Hours, if applicable].
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to [Preferred Charity/Organization], [Address or Website].
Comprehensive obituary template:
A detailed template that includes sections for biographical details, family information, and a personalized tribute:
Obituary for [Full Name]
[City of Residence], [State/Province] — It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of [Full Name], of [City of Residence], on [Date of Death], at the age of [Age]. [He/She/They] was born on [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth] to [Parents’ Names] and spent [his/her/their] early years [Brief Description of Childhood and Family Background].
Early Life and Education
Growing up in [Place of Growth], [Name] was known for [Character Traits or Childhood Highlights]. [He/She/They] attended [School Name] and went on to graduate from [College/University Name] with a degree in [Degree], laying the foundation for [his/her/their] career in [Career Field].Career and Achievements
[Name]’s professional life was marked by [Brief Summary of Career, Achievements, and Contributions]. [He/She/They] dedicated [Number of Years] to [Field/Profession], where [he/she/they] was respected for [Professional Qualities, Achievements].Family and Personal Life
[Name] is survived by a loving family, including [Spouse’s Name], [his/her/their] [relationship, e.g., beloved husband/wife/partner] of [Number of Years] years; [Children’s Names]; and [Grandchildren’s Names]. [He/She/They] was a [Family Role, e.g., devoted parent, caring sibling] and enjoyed [Hobbies, Interests].Community Involvement and Hobbies
In addition to [his/her/their] professional and family life, [Name] was deeply involved in [Community Activities, Volunteer Work]. [His/Her/Their] love for [Hobbies, Interests] was evident through [he/she/they] regularly [Activities, Contributions to Community or Organizations].Tribute and Memories
[Name]’s legacy will not only be carried on through [his/her/their] professional achievements but also through the lives [he/she/they] touched with [his/her/their] [Personal Qualities, e.g., generosity, sense of humor]. [Personal Anecdote or Memory that Highlights Character or Life Impact].Services
A [Type of Service, e.g., Memorial Service, Celebration of Life] honoring [Name]’s life will be held on [Date and Time] at [Location], [Address]. The service will be officiated by [Officiant’s Name]. [Details about Visitation, if applicable]. [Instructions for Flowers, Donations, or Other Requests by the Family].[Final Thoughts or Sentiments, e.g., “We will miss [Name] deeply but take comfort in knowing that [he/she/they] lived a full and meaningful life.”]
Creative obituary template:
A more flexible template that allows for creative expression, incorporating unique elements such as artwork or unconventional formatting.
A Celebration of [Full Name]: A Life of Memories
In Loving Memory
[Full Name], known affectionately as [Nickname] to those who shared in [his/her/their] journey, embarked on [his/her/their] final adventure on [Date of Death], surrounded by stories, love, and the soft hum of [Favorite Music/Environment Sounds]. Born under the [Zodiac Sign/Season] of [Birth Date], in the vibrant locale of [Birth Place], [Name] was a [Character Trait, e.g., spirited, kind-hearted] soul who painted life in strokes of [Qualities, e.g., generosity, humor, creativity].A Mosaic of Life
From [Childhood Memory] to [Significant Life Achievement], [Name]’s life was a rich mosaic of moments both grand and intimate. [He/She/They] found [Joy/Passion] in [Hobbies/Interests], weaving [his/her/their] love for [Passion] into every day. [Name] lived by the philosophy of [Personal Philosophy or Saying], a testament to [his/her/their] [Characteristic].Chapters of Love
[Name]’s epic tale includes chapters of love with [Family and Friends Descriptions, e.g., a devoted partnership with [Spouse’s Name], unparalleled adventures with [Children’s Names], and heartwarming bonds with [Grandchildren’s Names]]. Each family member, a star in the constellation of [his/her/their] life, brought [him/her/them] immeasurable joy.A Canvas of Contributions
[His/Her/Their] legacy is not just held in the memories of those [he/she/they] knew but is etched into the very fabric of [Community Involvement, Professional Contributions]. [Name] was a [Role in Community], touching lives through [Actions, Contributions, Works].Invitation to Remember
We invite you to join us in a [Type of Service, e.g., Celebration of Life, Artistic Tribute] that mirrors [Name]’s unique spirit on [Date and Time] at [Location]. Feel free to bring a [Item or Story] that reminds you of [Name], as we share stories and memories, creating a ceremony that [he/she/they] would have loved.A Request for Stories
In lieu of flowers, we ask for something more precious; your stories and memories of [Name]. Share them at [Service or Online Platform], so we may all remember [him/her/them] in the vibrant colors [he/she/they] loved.Final Brushstroke
[Name] once said, “[Memorable Quote].” As we bid farewell, let’s carry forward [his/her/their] light in acts of kindness, laughter in unexpected moments, and creativity in the face of the mundane. [His/Her/Their] story continues in each of us, a living artwork, ever-evolving.
Tips for Writing an Obituary
When writing an obituary, keep the following tips in mind:
- Keeping the focus on the deceased: Center the obituary around the life and accomplishments of the individual, avoiding unnecessary details or distractions.
- Seeking feedback from family and friends: Consult with loved ones to gather additional stories and memories that can enrich the obituary.
- Reviewing and editing for clarity and accuracy: Carefully proofread the obituary to ensure that it accurately represents the individual’s life and legacy.
When writing an obituary, it’s important to capture the essence of the individual’s life and impact.
Consider including specific details about their passions, hobbies, and achievements to paint a vivid picture of who they were.
Reach out to family and friends to get their input and provide a more comprehensive view of the person’s life for a richer and more meaningful obituary.
Remember to carefully review and edit the obituary for accuracy and clarity, ensuring that it truly reflects the individual’s legacy.
Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Obituary
Now that you know the format and have some inspiration for your obituary, let’s review some common mistakes you’ll want to avoid when writing.
- Avoid mistakes such as incorrect information, lack of detail about the deceased’s life and accomplishments, and a negative or judgmental tone.
- Fact-check all details, including the spelling of names and dates, to ensure accuracy.
- Focus on celebrating the life of the deceased, highlighting their positive traits and contributions to the community, rather than dwelling on any negative aspects.
- Be mindful of the feelings of the deceased’s loved ones and to avoid including any information that may be hurtful or controversial.
If you’re making sure that your obituary is accurate and sensitive to the deceased’s loved ones, you’ll do just fine.
Resources for Obituary Writing
If you need direct assistance with obituary writing, you can get help freelancers online, your local funeral home, or by using an AI obituary generator like Obituary Bot.
Obituary writing services
Professional writers can help craft a well-written obituary that honors the memory of your loved one.
Here are some common places you could hire an obituary writer at:
- Fiverr: You can hire freelancers for job / gig-specific work on Fiverr, starting at $5 per gig.
- Upwork: Similar to Fiverr, you’ll find someone who can write for you. Typically more expensive than Fiverr.
- Freelancer.com: More for a longer-term partnership, you’ll want to vet anyone you meet.
- A local funeral home: Your local funeral home will be able to assist you or even write one for you, usually if you use their services.
Obituary Bot: AI-generated obituaries in 1 minute
Obituary Bot is an AI tool that generates obituaries quickly and efficiently, while writing with compassion and empathy. Obituary Bot follows a tried-and-true template for obituaries that funerals around the United States can use.
By using Obituary Bot, you can save money on obituary writing costs, save time for your employees, and be able to spend more time to focus on what matters – the families in your community.
Conclusion
Writing the perfect obituary is like crafting a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Each word and sentence is carefully chosen and arranged to create a meaningful and impactful tribute to the person who has passed away.
Just as a florist selects the most vibrant and complementary blooms to create a stunning arrangement, an obituary writer carefully selects the most significant and heartfelt details about the deceased to create a touching and memorable tribute.
The obituary serves as a lasting symbol of remembrance, much like a bouquet of flowers that brings comfort and beauty to those who see it.
Now that you have a full list of obituary templates and examples to draw inspiration from, you can start writing your own today.
Need to save some time? Use Obituary Bot to write a passionate and complete obituary for someone you love in under 1 minute!