How do I Write an Obituary for a Young Person?
If you've recently lost a young person close to you, writing an obituary can help you reflect on his life, short though it was. It's never easy to write a last public statement about someone you loved, but writing it yourself can offer closure.
Other People Are Reading
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Contact/Read Your Newspaper
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Contact your newspaper about word limits and prices. Get a copy and imitate the voice and style of other obituaries. This will give copy editors less reason to rewrite it. Obituary templates are also available online.
The Basics
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The person's full name, date of birth and death and information about any memorial services and the burial should be included. If services have not yet been arranged, indicate this and include the name of the funeral home so that those who are interested can find more information.
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The Particulars
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You can include where the person was born and his family members' and pets' names. When writing about a young person, include the names of his schools and mention his favorite subjects. Mention his major if he was a college student. Include information about his best qualities, accomplishments and favorite activities. Consider adding a personal story. Emphasize good memories.
Editing
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Once you have written the notice, give it to a friend or family member who can proof it for you. Submit an electronic copy to your newspaper and ask for a proof from the newspaper to recheck it for mistakes before it is printed.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit typing hands image by Tom Davison from Fotolia.com
