How to write an Obituary

How To Write An Obituary

An obituary can be formal or personal, short or detailed. The goal is simple: share the key facts and honour the person in a way that feels true to them. Use this guide as a helpful structure—not a strict template.

Before You Start

• Where it will appear: funeral home website, newspaper, or social media
• Length and cost: many newspapers charge by word or column space
• Timing: confirm submission deadlines and the publication date
• Photo: choose a clear, high-quality image and confirm permission to use it
• Accuracy: verify spellings, dates, and family relationships before publishing

Step 1: The Death Announcement

This section covers the essentials (who, when, and where). Keep it clear and respectful.

• Full name (and nickname, if commonly used)
• Date of death (include the year)
• Age
• City/town (and place of passing if you choose to include it)

Step 2: A Short Life Summary

Think “life highlights,” not a résumé. Include what mattered most and what people will recognize.

• Where they grew up or were rooted (optional)
• Education (optional)
• Career, trade, or life’s work (in plain language)
• Community involvement, volunteering, faith, or service (if relevant)
• Interests, hobbies, routines, and what they loved
• Personal qualities (kind, funny, steady, generous—keep it real)
• Milestones or achievements (awards can be included if meaningful)

Step 3: Family Information

Most families list survivors first, then include “predeceased by” if desired.

Common order:

• Spouse/partner
• Children (and their spouses/partners if you choose)
• Grandchildren / great-grandchildren
• Parents
• Siblings
• Extended family or close friends (optional)
• Pets (optional, and increasingly common)

Predeceased can be included as a simple line: “Predeceased by…”

Step 4: Service Details

This is where people look for practical information. Include only what you’re ready to share.

• Date
• Time
• Place (and address if helpful)
• Public or private
• Visitation details (if applicable)
• Livestream details (if applicable)
• Who to contact for more information (funeral home name/phone)

If details are not finalized: “A memorial will be announced at a later date.” is completely acceptable.

Step 5: Special Messages

This section adds meaning without adding length.

• Donations: a charity name or “In lieu of flowers…” message (optional)
• Thanks: caregivers, friends, organizations, or care teams (optional)
• Quote or poem: keep it short—one or two lines often works best

A Modern Option (Short + Personal)

If you’re posting online or sharing on mobile, a shorter format often reads better:

• 1–2 sentences: the announcement
• 3–5 sentences: who they were + what they loved
• 1 sentence: family (simple)
• 1–2 sentences: service details (or “to be announced”)
• 1 sentence: donation or thanks (optional)

Quick Checklist Before You Publish

• Names spelled correctly
• Dates confirmed
• Service details verified
• Family listing reviewed by someone close
• Photo is clear and approved
• Only share details you’re comfortable making public

Need Assistance?

If you’d like help organizing details or reviewing wording, share what you have and we can help you prepare an obituary that feels clear, respectful, and true to your loved one.