Writing an Obituary for a Funeral

The Announcement

Writing an obituary for a funeral can obviously be a daunting task. The writer often feels intense pressure--not to make a mistake, to correctly represent a deceased loved one, to write something that resonates for the many people who will read it. So how might one write an obituary and feel good about it? First, write the announcement. This is the first line of the obituary, often a single sentence, that announces the passing of the individual and includes the person's name (for example, "John Smith"), the date of death ("January 10th, 2009") and the cause of death ("after a protracted bout with lung cancer").

Biographical Statement

Compose the biographical statement. This is the bulk of the obituary and includes pertinent biographical details as well as those accomplishments and events for which the person should be remembered. It should include a birth place and date, recognition for awards and achievements, noteworthy positions held in government, the community, church or work, educational details and notable hobbies. A sentence or two outlining the person's philosophy on life ("His oft-stated motto in life was 'laugh often, love much'"), overriding personality traits ("She was known for her genuine charity") or life loves ("He was an ardent, lifelong Steelers fan") might also be mentioned.

Relatives

In a sentence, include the relatives by whom the deceased is survived. This is typically done in the following order: spouse, children, parents, siblings, stepchildren, aunts, uncles, grandchildren and close cousins. The latter few need not be named--for example, if the deceased is survived by 14 grandchildren, the statement might appropriately read, simply, "...and 14 grandchildren."

Time and Place

Include time and place information regarding the funeral, viewing, memorial services and other related events. If desired, let readers know where donations, flowers and other gifts in remembrance of the deceased can be made.