How to Write an Obituary - Honoring a Life with Words (2024)

FAQs

How to Write an Obituary - Honoring a Life with Words? ›

Structure the Obituary

Obituary Example: Announcing a Celebration of Life

[Full name] left us on [date of death] at the age of [age]. To celebrate [first name]'s remarkable life, we gather on [date] at [location]. In lieu of traditional mourning, we request the joy of your company in bright colors, reflecting [first name]'s vibrant spirit.

In terms of what to write, you should recount the most significant achievements and events in your loved one's life. This may include their hobbies, education, or contributions to the community. Every single person is unique, and this should be clearly reflected in the obituary.

Some families make the final line a dedication honoring their loved one. Phrases like “We will always carry your memory in our hearts,” or perhaps a favorite quote of your loved one are heartfelt and personal. Other families select a short prayer, a religious quotation, or a line from a poem to place at the end.

[Full Name], aged [age of the deceased], passed away peacefully on [date of death], at [location of death]. He/she was born on [date of birth], in [birthplace], to [names of parents]. He/she was a proud resident of [city of residence] and was a 1975 graduate of Holy Cross High School.

Join us as we come together and honor the life of (name of the departed). A light luncheon and refreshments will be served. We have all felt sadness and grief for (name of the departed)'s passing, but now it's time for us to celebrate the remarkable life they lived!

Uplifting celebration of life quotes

Those we love and lose are always connected by heartstrings into infinity. Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow. As a well-spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well-used brings happy death.

Start by giving a brief introduction of who you are and what your relationship was to the deceased. Share personal stories and anecdotes about your loved one, along with anything that will help celebrate and honor their life, such as: Reading their favorite poem or song lyrics.

When writing an obituary, leave out details that could be used for identity theft, such as the deceased's date and place of birth, middle name, maiden name and mother's maiden name. And don't include the deceased's home address.

Short Obituary Examples

These concise memorials serve as lasting reminders of a life well-lived. In memory of [Name], the obituary chronicles a life rich with experiences and connections. Born on [Date] in [Place], [Name] journeyed through life with unwavering determination and a spirit of kindness.

What is the best opening line for an obituary? ›

“It is with great sadness that the family of (deceased name) announce (his/her) passing….” “(Deceased name) will be sadly missed by ….” “Fondly remembered by….” “Forever remembered by….”

The final paragraph includes the service arrangements. The name of the individual, including any nickname he or she was known by, and location and date of death so there is no confusion as to who has died. Who the person really was, and what he or she may have accomplished.

Ms McFadden is often around death due to her job and revealed that the most common thing people say right before they die is 'I love you,' and that they often call out to their mom or dad, who have usually already passed away.

Announce the death and include their full name, age, hometown, and date of death. Include a brief summary of their life. Mention family members who have already passed away, as well as surviving family members. Share funeral or memorial service details, including whether they are public or private events.

Give a brief background on the person who has died.

Mention any nicknames they might have had; talk about their work or the things that were most important to them. Mention your relationship to them and what they meant to you and others. Talk about some of their best qualities and values they held dear.

Include Emotion. The best words for obituaries are ones that show how you really feel about the person who has died. If you're writing an obituary for your mother, tell how you felt about her as a person. Similarly, in an obituary for your father, tell what he did and how he affected people emotionally.

A celebration of life program typically includes a brief biography of the deceased and an itinerary of all the events in the program. The program communicates who will perform readings, deliver a eulogy or sing a hymn, service information, additional details, and the order of events.

Some ideas for what to say during your speech include statements of hope, a story or memory about the person, or something else that you feel is necessary to share about the deceased person. It is best not to use cliché phrases, or quotes about your experience with the death of the person or your grief.

A celebration of life differs from a funeral in that it's often a more casual and less structured service. Many families consider a celebration of life to be more of a relaxed and party-like atmosphere with guests attending to celebrate a life well lived.