How do I Write an Obituary Announcement for a Death Notice?

An obituary gives important details about a person's life.

Writing an obituary to notify the public about someone's death requires sensitivity and accuracy. The task is usually a two-fold process. Information is imparted to a funeral director or family member who then reports it to a publication. The notice is time-sensitive. It becomes an official record of the person's passing and gives particulars about the person's life, final arrangements and survivors.

Things You'll Need

• Personal records
• Employment data
• Family history

Instructions

1. Gather information about a person, including the spelling of their first and last name and any middle initials or names used, age, address and date of death. If the deceased was a married female, include their maiden name in parenthesis. When possible, use official records.

2. Include their employment outside the home, starting with the most recent company or organization, their job titles and functions and retirement dates. Write in simple, direct style, such as, "A 20-year veteran of the Miami Fire Department, John Smith held the rank of lieutenant before his retirement in 1989."

3. Speak to friends and relatives about the deceased's passions, hobbies and interests, which reflect who the person was and the contributions they made to their families and communities. In many publications, a personal quote can be used in an obituary to sum up their personality.

4. Add their favorite charities or volunteer work and any military service or awards they garnered during their lifetime. In some instances, you might want to add the name of a university where they graduated.

5. Mention immediate survivors, including spouse, children, siblings and grandchildren when applicable. In the case of divorce or separation, be sensitive to handling this information.

6. Conclude the obituary with final arrangements, including days, times and locations of religious services, viewings and internment.

Tips & Warnings

• Call ahead to check newspaper deadlines and procedures for submitting obituary information.

• Have the newspaper read back to you the information and send you a draft if possible to ensure accuracy.

• Avoid mentioning cause of death, and if you do so, be generic.

References

• How to Write an Obituary in 10 Easy Steps