How to Write a Memorable Obituary: Your Step-by-Step Guide with Examples and Templates
When a loved one passes away, finding the right words to honor their life can feel like an impossible task. An obituary serves as both a farewell and a celebration, a way to share their story with the world. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone who struggles to put pen to paper, resources like this example of obituary can be a lifesaver. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about crafting an obituary, from simple formats to detailed templates. Plus, we’ll share tips, examples, and insights to make the process easier — and even a little therapeutic.
Why Obituaries Matter
Obituaries aren’t just announcements; they’re keepsakes. They document a person’s legacy, offering closure to loved ones and a chance for the community to pay their respects. According to a 2023 survey by the National Funeral Directors Association, 78% of people find comfort in reading or writing an obituary as part of the grieving process. But where do you start? That’s where tools like simple obituary examples come in, providing a foundation you can build upon.
Step 1: Gather the Essentials
Before you dive into writing, collect the key details about your loved one. These typically include:
Full Name: Include any nicknames they were known by.
Dates: Birth and death dates, along with locations.
Family: Surviving relatives and those who predeceased them.
Life Highlights: Career, hobbies, achievements, or passions.
Service Details: Funeral or memorial information.
If you’re unsure how to structure this information, an example of obituary template can guide you. It’s like a cheat sheet that ensures you don’t miss anything important.
Step 2: Choose Your Style
Obituaries come in all shapes and sizes. Some families prefer brevity, while others opt for a detailed narrative. Let’s break down the options:
Simple and Sweet: A short, to-the-point notice. Check out simple obituary examples for inspiration.
Story-Driven: A longer piece that weaves in anecdotes and personality.
Formal: A traditional format with a focus on facts.
No matter your choice, an example of an obituary template can adapt to your needs, offering a customizable framework.
Step 3: Start with a Strong Opening
The first sentence sets the tone. Here’s an example from an obituary format example:
“Jane Marie Doe, 72, of Springfield, passed peacefully on March 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.”
This opener is concise yet warm, giving readers the who, where, and when. You can tweak it to reflect your loved one’s personality — maybe they were a jokester or a quiet soul.
Step 4: Tell Their Story
This is the heart of the obituary. Share what made them special. Were they a devoted teacher? A gardening guru? A parent who never missed a soccer game? Here’s a sample inspired by an example of an obituary format:
“Born on July 4, 1952, in Chicago, Jane spent her life spreading joy. She taught elementary school for 35 years, touching countless lives with her patience and creativity. In her free time, she tended her prize-winning roses and cheered on the Cubs, never losing hope for a championship.”
Feel stuck? Browse simple obituary examples to spark ideas.
Step 5: Acknowledge Family and Friends
List surviving family members and those who passed before. This section connects the dots for readers and honors relationships. For instance:
“Jane is survived by her husband, Tom, her children, Sarah and Mike, and her beloved grandchildren, Emma and Liam. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Mary Smith.”
An example of obituary template often includes this as a standard section, making it easy to plug in names.
Step 6: Share Service Details
Let people know how they can say goodbye. Include dates, times, and locations for funerals, memorials, or celebrations of life. Here’s an example:
“A memorial service will be held at Springfield Community Church on April 10, 2025, at 2 p.m., followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Springfield Literacy Fund are appreciated.”
This clarity helps loved ones plan, and you can find similar phrasing in an obituary format example.
Step 7: Add a Personal Touch
End with something memorable — a quote, a thank-you, or a reflection. For example:
“Jane’s laughter will echo in our hearts forever. The family thanks everyone for their support during this time.”
This closing leaves readers with a sense of connection. Need help? An example of an obituary format often includes creative endings.
Real-Life Examples to Inspire You
Let’s look at a few full obituaries, adapted from simple obituary examples:
Short and Simple:
“Robert Lee Johnson, 85, of Austin, Texas, passed away on March 20, 2025. Born on June 12, 1939, he was a mechanic and avid fisherman. He is survived by his wife, Linda, and son, James. Services will be private.”
Detailed and Heartfelt:
“Margaret Ann Thompson, 68, of Boise, Idaho, left us on March 25, 2025, after a brave battle with cancer. Born September 3, 1956, in Portland, Margaret was a nurse who cared for others with boundless compassion. She loved painting, hiking, and her golden retriever, Max. She leaves behind her partner, Ellen, her sister, Kate, and a community of friends. A celebration of life will be held April 15, 2025, at Boise Park Pavilion at 1 p.m. In her memory, plant a flower or hug a dog.”
Both styles work beautifully, depending on your preference. You can find more in an example of obituary template.
Tips for Writing with Ease
Keep It Authentic: Write as if you’re talking to a friend about your loved one.
Use Templates: An example of an obituary format takes the guesswork out of structure.
Edit Later: Get your thoughts down first, then polish them.
Ask for Input: Family members might have stories or details to add.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Much Detail: Stick to highlights — save the full biography for a eulogy.
Forgetting Dates: Double-check birth, death, and service info.
Overly Formal Language: Unless it suits your loved one, keep it conversational.
Why Use a Template?
Templates like those at Quick Funeral save time and reduce stress. They’re especially handy if you’re juggling funeral plans or grieving. An example of obituary template gives you a ready-made structure, while simple obituary examples show how to keep it brief yet meaningful.
Sharing Your Obituary
Once it’s written, spread the word. Post it on social media, submit it to local newspapers, or share it on memorial websites. Encourage others to leave comments or memories — Web 2.0 is all about interaction! For example:
“We’ve lost an incredible woman — read Margaret’s obituary here [link] and share your favorite memory below.”
The Healing Power of Writing
Writing an obituary can be cathartic. It’s a chance to reflect on what your loved one meant to you and others. Studies show that putting grief into words can ease emotional pain, and using an obituary format example makes it less daunting.
Final Thoughts
Crafting an obituary is a labor of love, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you lean on simple obituary examples, an example of an obituary template, or a full example of an obituary format, resources like those at Quick Funeral are here to help. Take your time, tell their story, and let their legacy shine.
Have a tip or an obituary you’d like to share? Drop it in the comments — we’d love to hear from you! And if this guide helped, pass it along to someone else who might need it.