The obituary is an important topic after the passing of a loved one. Telling the story of a life well-lived is a big responsibility. Previously on this blog, we have told the story of how obituaries have evolved over time. Today, we jump into tips to help you honor your loved one.
First, it’s important to note that if writing the obituary is too overwhelming, your funeral professionals can help with the entire process. All you have to do is ask. Sometimes, there is a person who genuinely wants to take on the task of reflection and share the story of the deceased’s life.
Start with the Basics:
Full name
Age
Date and place of birth
Date and place of passing
Immediate surviving family members
Funeral or memorial service details
Preference for donations, flowers, etc
Once you’ve laid the foundation for the obituary with these items, you can move on to more personal storytelling.
Telling the Life Story:
Consider career accomplishments
Highlight volunteer work and community involvement
Mention hobbies and passions
Share unique memories or quotes
Share anecdotes that display the character of the deceased
You don’t have to cover every detail; now is the time to choose the memories and elements that feel the most meaningful.
Tools to Help:
Legacy.com provides obituary examples
The Daily Item has templates and samples to help collect the details
Interview family to make sure you’re capturing memories from a variety of people
Lean on your hired funeral professionals for help
Choose a writing style that is warm and respectful. Clear language and short sentence structure will help keep things simple and heartfelt.
Once you have a first draft, review and edit carefully. Triple check the funeral and/or memorial gathering details for accuracy.
Writing an obituary for a loved one is a special gift that allows you to celebrate their life. It’s an opportunity to create a lasting tribute to a special person.