How to Write an Obituary
How to Write an Obituary
Writing an obituary often begins with gathering the essential details about a person’s life and deciding how best to share their story. When writing one for a spouse, family member, or close friend, it’s important to consider which factual information should be included while also finding a meaningful balance between facts and personal reflection.
A well-written obituary not only shares key life details but also honors the individual in a way that feels personal and respectful. The information below is designed to help guide you through that process.
What's the Difference Between an Obituary and a Death Notice?
An obituary provides a more detailed account of a person’s life, while a death notice typically shares only the most essential facts. Although both include key information, an obituary offers a fuller picture of the individual’s life, experiences, and legacy.
When writing either, it is important to include basic details such as the person’s full name (including maiden name or nickname if applicable), age at the time of death, date and place of birth, date and place of death, and the city or state where they lived. You may also include surviving family members and information about the funeral or memorial service, such as the date, time, and location.
An obituary serves as more than a notice—it becomes a meaningful record of a life lived. In sharing these details, families contribute to a lasting historical record that honors their loved one and preserves their story for future generations.
Well-Written Obituaries
It is easy to find obituaries that leave a lasting impression—stories about everyday people that make us smile, laugh, or reflect, and sometimes wish we had known them. Today, obituaries also exist widely online as digital records that preserve a person’s life, place, and time, and in some cases, individuals even choose to write their own.
While the approach is up to each family, an obituary can go beyond basic facts to include meaningful personal details such as parents’ names, information about a spouse and children, religious or community affiliations, career history, achievements, personal interests, and the ways a person impacted those around them.
Beyond the factual information, the most memorable obituaries often include stories and reflections that help bring a person’s character to life. By combining key details with personal memories and anecdotes, you create a more complete and meaningful tribute that truly reflects who they were.
Double-Check Spelling and Grammar
Before submitting the final version of your loved one’s obituary, take time to review it carefully. Read it through more than once to check for spelling and grammar errors, and ensure that all names, dates, and other details are accurate.
A thoughtful review helps ensure the obituary is both polished and factually correct before it is shared.
