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Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Heartfelt Obituary

Writer's picture: Jordanna ShankleJordanna Shankle

Updated: Jul 12, 2024




What is an Obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of a person's death, often published in a newspaper or online. It provides essential details about the deceased, including their life story, significant achievements, and information about the upcoming funeral or memorial service.

 

Step 1: Gather Essential Information

Before you sit down to start writing, make sure to collect all the information you’ll need. This includes:


·         Full name (including maiden name, if applicable)

·         Date of birth

·         Place of birth

·         Date of death

·         Place of death

·         Names of surviving family members

·         Significant life events (education, career, marriage, etc.)

·         Hobbies, interests, achievements

 

Step 2: Start Your Obituary with a Personal Touch

A personal statement or memorable anecdote captures the spirit of your loved one, setting a warm and heartfelt tone from the beginning.

 

Step 3: Provide Key Details

Include essential details like birth and death dates, places of birth and death, and the names of close family members. This helps to inform the readers and provide a more robust image of their life.

 

Step 4: Highlight Life Achievements and Contributions

Celebrate the accomplishments of your loved one. Highlight what they were proud of: their career, volunteer work, hobbies, or anything else that was important to them.

 

Step 5: Share Personal Attributes and Stories

Describe what made your loved one special. Share specific stories or anecdotes to make the obituary personal and touching.

 

Step 6: Provide Funeral or Memorial Service Information

Include details about where the funeral or memorial will be held, what flowers they liked, when the service will be held so that friends and family can attend and pay their respects.

 

Step 7: Offer Thanks and Acknowledgements

Express gratitude to those who have offered support during this difficult time. Acknowledging the support of family, friends, and caregivers can be comforting for everyone.

 

Step 8: Conclude with a Heartful Closing

End the obituary with a final though or statement that reflects your loved one’s impact and legacy.

 

By following these steps, you can create a heartfelt obituary that honors your loved one’s memory and provides comfort to those who read it. Writing an obituary is a way to celebrate a life well-lived and to share that life’s story with the world.

 

If you need an obituary writing template, you can find one here.

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