How to write an Obituary

We hope that this step by step guide to preparing an obituary will help you write one that is meaningful and communicates the vital information. This guide should not make you feel limited to the information you want to convey, an obituary can be formal or informal. This guide is depicting how a formal obituary can be written.

Things to consider: National/local paper costs, dates to be printed, photo

1) Announcement of death:

Name/nickname
date (include year)
Age
Place

2) Biographical sketch – recount the most important events chronologically

Early education
Marriage info
Professional into/achievements
Personal info/characteristics
Awards received

3) Family info – Start with survivors

spouse
children
grandchildren, great-grandchildren
parents
siblings
friends
pets (if appropriate)
predeceased

4) Funeral arrangements

Date
Time
Place
Name of funeral home and phone number to call for more info

5) Special messages

Memorial donation suggestions
Special thanks to people, groups, institutions
Quote or poem