5 Obituary Tips

Writing an obituary can be a daunting task, especially during a time of grief. It's essential to create a meaningful and respectful tribute to the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need it. In this article, we will explore the importance of obituaries, their purpose, and provide valuable tips on how to write a great one.

Obituaries serve as a way to inform the community about a person's passing, share their life story, and celebrate their achievements. They can be published in newspapers, online, or in other forms of media, making it possible for people to pay their respects and offer condolences to the family. A well-written obituary can be a therapeutic way to process grief, while also providing a sense of closure.

The process of writing an obituary can be overwhelming, but with some guidance, it can become a meaningful and healing experience. It's crucial to approach this task with sensitivity, care, and attention to detail. Whether you're a family member, friend, or funeral director, the following tips will help you create a beautiful and lasting tribute to the deceased.

Understanding the Purpose of an Obituary

Before we dive into the tips, it's essential to understand the purpose of an obituary. An obituary is a notice of a person's death, usually published in a newspaper or online. Its primary purpose is to inform the community about the person's passing, share their life story, and provide information about the funeral or memorial service. Obituaries can also serve as a way to celebrate the person's life, achievements, and legacy.

Tip 1: Gather Essential Information

To write a great obituary, you'll need to gather essential information about the deceased. This includes their full name, date of birth, date of death, age, occupation, education, and any notable achievements or awards. You'll also want to include information about their family, such as their spouse, children, grandchildren, and siblings. Additionally, you may want to include details about their hobbies, interests, and any charitable organizations they were involved with.

What to Include in an Obituary

When gathering information, consider the following:

• Full name and nickname (if applicable)
• Date of birth and date of death
• Age and occupation
• Education and notable achievements
• Family members, including spouse, children, grandchildren, and siblings
• Hobbies and interests
• Charitable organizations or volunteer work
• Military service (if applicable)

Tip 2: Write a Compelling Life Story

A great obituary tells a story about the person's life, highlighting their achievements, passions, and values. When writing the life story, consider the following:

• Use a conversational tone to make the story more engaging and personal
• Include anecdotes and memories that showcase the person's personality and character
• Highlight their accomplishments and achievements, no matter how big or small
• Mention their hobbies and interests, and how they impacted their life
• Keep the story concise and focused, avoiding unnecessary details

Creating a Narrative

To create a compelling narrative, consider the following structure:

• Introduction: Introduce the person and provide an overview of their life
• Early life: Describe their childhood, education, and early career
• Career and achievements: Highlight their notable achievements and accomplishments
• Personal life: Describe their family, hobbies, and interests
• Legacy: Summarize their impact and legacy

Tip 3: Include Relevant Details

In addition to the life story, you'll want to include relevant details about the funeral or memorial service. This includes:

• Date, time, and location of the service
• Information about visitation or viewing hours
• Details about the burial or cremation
• Information about charitable donations or memorial funds
• Contact information for the funeral home or cemetery

Funeral and Memorial Service Information

When including relevant details, consider the following:

• Be clear and concise, avoiding unnecessary information
• Provide essential details, such as date, time, and location
• Include information about visitation or viewing hours, if applicable
• Mention any charitable donations or memorial funds

Tip 4: Use a Respectful Tone

When writing an obituary, it's essential to use a respectful tone that honors the deceased and their family. Avoid using language that is overly sentimental or dramatic, and instead focus on creating a dignified and respectful tribute.

Creating a Respectful Tone

To create a respectful tone, consider the following:

• Use formal language and avoid slang or colloquialisms
• Avoid making negative comments or criticisms
• Focus on the person's positive qualities and achievements
• Use respectful titles, such as "Mr." or "Mrs.," when referring to the deceased

Tip 5: Proofread and Edit

Finally, it's essential to proofread and edit the obituary carefully before publishing it. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Final Check

When proofreading and editing, consider the following:

• Check for spelling and grammar errors
• Verify the accuracy of the information
• Make sure the tone is respectful and dignified
• Read the obituary aloud to ensure it flows smoothly and is easy to understand

Obituary Image Gallery

In conclusion, writing an obituary is a meaningful way to honor the deceased and provide essential information to those who need it. By following these 5 obituary tips, you can create a beautiful and lasting tribute that celebrates the person's life and legacy. Remember to gather essential information, write a compelling life story, include relevant details, use a respectful tone, and proofread and edit carefully. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out. Share your thoughts and experiences with obituaries in the comments below, and feel free to share this article with others who may find it helpful.