A death in the family is never an easy burden. Equally difficult in some ways is relaying the bleak news to relatives, friends, and acquaintances. It’s for that reason that obituaries exist. Surely you’ve come across one or two local obituaries in a vintage newspaper before. If learning more about this is what you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place. Browse through our selections to get your own obituary template or read on to discover facts about this solemn announcement.
38+ Sample Obituary Templates
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How to Write an Obituary?
Writing an obituary can be a meaningful way to honor the life of a loved one. Here’s a simple guide to help you write an obituary:
Basic Structure
- Announcement of Death:
- Start with the full name of the deceased, including any nicknames.
- Include the date and place of death.
- Optionally, mention the cause of death if appropriate.
- Biographical Information:
- Date and place of birth.
- Key life events (education, career, marriage).
- Important accomplishments and contributions.
- Family Information:
- List close family members (spouse, children, grandchildren).
- Mention those who preceded in death and those who survived the deceased.
- Service Information:
- Date, time, and location of funeral or memorial services.
- Any special requests (donations in lieu of flowers, dress code).
- Personal Touch:
- Include anecdotes, quotes, or personal stories that highlight the deceased’s character.
- Mention hobbies, interests, and community involvement.
Example Obituary
Jane Elizabeth Smith, 78, of Springfield, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2024. Born on July 12, 1945, in Springfield, Jane dedicated her life to education, teaching at Springfield High School for 30 years. She married John Smith in 1968 and together they raised three children, Michael, Susan, and David.
Jane was known for her love of gardening and her commitment to local charity work. She is survived by her husband John, her children Michael (Anna), Susan (Mark), and David (Lisa), and her seven grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mary Johnson.
A memorial service will be held on June 10, 2024, at 2 PM at Springfield Community Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Springfield Education Fund.
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What Is an Obituary?
By simple definition, obituaries are written announcements meant to inform others of an individual’s passing. However, it isn’t just like any other announcement. An obituary program often includes a poignant statement about the deceased’s life and personality. Local obituaries are easy to spot, as they are frequently reported in newspapers or even online. The latter even makes the act of being able to find obituaries by name much easier. In the age of social media, it is taken up a notch with obituary notices and local death notices made available at a single click or tap.
Tips on Writing an Obituary
Those tasked with this feat will want to know how to write an obituary. Fortunately, we can provide you with some tips to make your endeavor easier.
Tip 1: Accept Contributions from Others
Although many may prefer to write alone, you don’t have to do so. You may extend invitation letters to other individuals who were close to the deceased to write their own heartfelt regard for the departed.
Tip 2: It Doesn’t Have to be Too Serious
The passing of a person is somber enough. Don’t be afraid to assume a whimsical, silly, and even a witty tone. A fun-filled obituary made at the request of a son may be something a father would enjoy had he lived to see it.
Tip 3: Don’t Forget the Essential Moments
Narrate the incidents that perfectly encapsulates the nature and character of the deceased. You may also describe what the departed has done, sample reference any certificate of accomplishments, his/her principles, and scope of influence on other people.
Tip 4: Incorporate the Deceased’s Interests
Incorporate photography samples, songs, poems, even excerpts from novels, and movie sample quotations that the deceased enjoyed so much or constantly refer to during conversations.
FAQs
How does an obituary differ from a death notice?
The main difference between an obituary and a death notice is that the former contains biographical elements. The latter is simply a paid announcement that provides minimal details like the deceased’s name, where the memorial program service is held, and where one can submit donations.
How much does it cost to post an obituary?
The answer will depend on which newspaper you approach. A common metropolitan newspaper, for example, charges per line. Average obituaries will cost a minimum of $200 and as much as $500.
How do I end an obituary?
End an obituary with details about the funeral or memorial service, any special requests such as donations in lieu of flowers, and a final tribute or sentiment about the deceased’s impact on family and friends.
How do I end an obituary?
End an obituary with details about the funeral or memorial service, any special requests such as donations in lieu of flowers, and a final tribute or sentiment about the deceased’s impact on family and friends.
What not to put in an obituary?
Avoid including sensitive information like the deceased’s home address, specific details about the death if it was tragic, financial details, or any potentially controversial or private family issues.
How do I list names in an obituary?
List names by relationship and order of closeness: spouse, children (and their spouses), grandchildren, parents, and siblings. Use full names and include nicknames if appropriate. For example: “Survived by his wife, Jane; children, Mike (Sarah), and Emily (John).”
Who normally gets assigned to write obituaries?
A death obituary is normally written by reporters or editors of newspapers at the request of families. This is a stark contrast to death notices, which are written by family members.
The accomplishment of creating an obituary—either from scratch or by downloading an obituary sample—completes the act of mourning and burying those now lost to us. By now you know that these can be placed in a variety of places, from newspapers to an obituary sample website. Use what you’ve learned here to great effect when the dreaded time of a loved one’s passing comes.
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