In moments of loss, words can be hard to find. Summing up a life in a few paragraphs may seem overwhelming, yet writing an obituary is not just a task; it’s a tribute—a way to honour and celebrate the life of someone cherished. If you’re faced with this responsibility, perhaps for the first time, and feel unsure of where to begin, remember that you’re not alone. This guide offers gentle support and examples to help you craft a heartfelt obituary that honours your loved one’s memory.
How to Write a Simple Obituary
An obituary serves as a public announcement of a person’s passing, a record of their life, and a way to honour them. At its core, a basic obituary includes the following essential details:
- Date of birth
- Date of death
- Age at the time of passing
These foundational elements are crucial for conveying the basic facts about a person’s life and passing. Additionally, many choose to include:
- Place of residence – This provides context about where the individual lived, contributing to the sense of place in their story.
- Place of passing – Often included to add more personal context.
- Preceding and surviving family members – Listing immediate family members who have passed and those who survive offers insight into the individual’s family connections and legacy.
While optional, including details about personal achievements, passions, character traits, and memorable moments adds depth and individuality to the obituary. Information about funeral or memorial services can also be provided, allowing the community to come together in support and remembrance. Below are examples and templates to guide you in crafting a fitting tribute.
A Simple Short Obituary Example Template
For those looking for a brief but meaningful announcement, this template provides the essentials:
Example:
[Full name], [age], of [place of residence], passed away on [date of death] from [cause of death]. Preceded in death by [list of predeceased family members] and survived by [list of surviving family members].
This simple format conveys the essential information concisely, giving friends, family, and the community a snapshot of the individual’s life while allowing for personalisation through family names and cause of death (if desired).
Announcing the Funeral: Obituary Template
For those who want to announce the funeral details in addition to basic information, this template can be used to invite people to the service:
Example:
[Full name], [age], of [place of residence], sadly left us on [date of death] due to [cause of death]. They leave behind [list of surviving family members]. A service will be held in their honour at [time] on [date] at [location].
This announcement is both respectful and informative, providing enough detail for those who may wish to attend the service while honouring the loved one’s legacy.
Personalising an Obituary with Unique Details
Adding personal elements to an obituary can transform it into a lasting tribute that truly reflects the individual. Here are a few suggestions for customising the obituary to capture your loved one’s unique character:
- Include Life Accomplishments – Share any milestones, achievements, or recognitions that were important in their life.
- “[Full name] worked as a [profession] for over [number] years, dedicated to serving the community.”
- Highlight Character Traits – Consider adding descriptions of their personality or memorable traits.
- “Known for their kindness and generosity, [Full name] was always there to lend a helping hand.”
- Share Personal Interests or Hobbies – Mention their hobbies, passions, or special interests.
- “In their free time, [Full name] enjoyed [activity or hobby], bringing joy to friends and family through their passion.”
Including these unique elements can make the obituary feel more personal and memorable, creating a vivid picture of their life and impact.
Examples of Detailed Obituary Templates
Here are a few sample templates for writing a more detailed obituary:
Detailed Obituary Template #1
[Full name], [age], of [place of residence], passed away peacefully on [date of death] at [place of passing]. Born on [birth date] in [birthplace], [Full name] was a beloved [relationship to surviving family, e.g., father, sister, etc.] and a friend to many. They dedicated their life to [career or passion], impacting countless lives through their [specific achievements or characteristics]. Survived by [list of surviving family members]. A memorial service will be held at [location] on [date] at [time], where family and friends are welcome to honour their memory.
Detailed Obituary Template #2
[Full name], aged [age], passed away on [date of death] surrounded by family and friends. Born in [birthplace], [Full name] was known for their [personal qualities, e.g., compassion, generosity]. They were an active member of [organisation or community group] and spent their life working as a [profession or role]. [Full name] enjoyed [hobbies or activities] and had a gift for bringing people together. They leave behind a legacy of love and friendship and are survived by [list of surviving family members]. A celebration of life will be held at [location] on [date] at [time].
These templates add more context about a person’s life, allowing for a richer description of who they were and what they loved. Such details invite readers to connect with the memory of the departed and celebrate their unique contributions.
Tips for Writing a Thoughtful Obituary
Writing an obituary can be an emotional process, but keeping the following tips in mind can help:
- Start with the Basics – Begin with the essential information, including the person’s name, age, and date of death. This forms the foundation of the obituary.
- Be Authentic – Use language that feels natural to you, aiming for authenticity over formality. It’s okay to use simple, heartfelt words.
- Keep the Tone Respectful – Strive to strike a tone that honours the individual’s memory in a way that feels true to their life.
- Proofread for Accuracy – Carefully review the obituary for any errors in dates, names, or details, ensuring the tribute is respectful and accurate.
- Consider Length – Obituaries can range from brief notices to full-life summaries. Reflect on how much detail feels appropriate, and remember that newspapers and online platforms may have word limits.
Announcing a Private Funeral
With a profound sense of loss, we announce the passing of [full name] from [location], who departed this life at age [age] on [date of death] after [circumstance of death]. The funeral will be a private ceremony attended by close family only, where they will remember [first name] with love and tenderness in an intimate setting.
This announcement conveys the necessary details while respecting the family’s wish for privacy, allowing those who knew [first name] to pay their respects without attending the private service.
No Funeral or Memorial
With heavy hearts, we share the news that [full name] passed away on [date of death] at their home in [place of passing]. [First name] filled their life with joy and brought happiness to everyone they encountered.
Honouring their wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. While we respect [first name]’s decision, we encourage all who knew them to reflect on cherished memories and keep their joyful spirit alive.
This announcement is a dignified way to inform others of the passing, while also respecting the deceased’s wishes for no formal gathering.
Inviting Donations in Memory
In loving memory of [full name], who passed away peacefully on [date] at the age of [age], surrounded by family and friends. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to contribute to [charity], an organisation close to [first name]’s heart, to honour their legacy and continue the positive impact they valued.
Inviting donations instead of flowers is a meaningful tribute that reflects the values and causes important to the deceased, allowing their legacy to live on through charitable support.
Funeral Information to Follow
We are saddened to announce the passing of [full name], who departed on [date of death] after a brief illness, either in hospital or at home. Their presence will be deeply missed by all who knew them.
We are currently arranging the details of [first name]’s funeral and will share information on the date and location as soon as possible.
This announcement respectfully informs the community of the passing while indicating that further details will be shared later, allowing loved ones to prepare.
Ash Spreading Ceremony Invitation
The world brightened on [date of birth] with the arrival of [full name], who lived a long and joyous life before passing on [date of death]. [First name] will be missed dearly by family and friends.
We invite those who wish to honour [first name] to join us for an ash-spreading ceremony at [location] on [date of ceremony], where we will say our final goodbyes in a beautiful and reflective setting.
This announcement provides an opportunity for friends and family to gather for a peaceful, meaningful farewell.
Announcing a Celebration of Life
We mourn the passing of [full name], who left us on [date of death] at the age of [age]. To celebrate [first name]’s remarkable life, we invite you to gather with us on [date] at [location]. Instead of traditional mourning, we request that guests wear bright colours, reflecting [first name]’s vibrant spirit and zest for life.
Celebrating a life rather than holding a sombre service offers a joyful way to honour the deceased’s personality and legacy, encouraging attendees to remember the happy moments shared.
Short Obituary Examples for a Community Pillar
For individuals known for their service and dedication to their community, a short obituary can still capture their spirit and contribution meaningfully. Here are examples:
Obituary Example 1
“Our community mourns the loss of [full name], a beacon of [community trait, e.g., compassion, integrity], who passed away on [date of death]. [First name] devoted countless hours to [community service or role], touching many lives with their dedication and kindness. In [first name]’s memory, donations to [organisation] are welcomed, continuing the work they held dear.”
This example captures the essence of someone deeply involved in community service, allowing others to honour them through donations to an organisation they supported.
Obituary Example 2
“[Full name], age [age], a beloved figure from [place of residence], departed our world on [date of death] after a life filled with service and kindness. Known for [mention significant contributions, e.g., volunteer work, leadership roles], [first name] was a light of hope in our community. They are preceded in death by [predeceased family members] and leave behind [surviving family members]. Join us in remembrance on [date] at [location], where we will honour [first name]’s legacy and enduring impact.”
Short Obituary Examples: For a Son or Daughter
The loss of a son or daughter is an unfathomable grief, and crafting an obituary for a beloved child can feel overwhelming. Here are some heartfelt examples to honour a young life.
Obituary Example 1
“Our beloved [full name] tragically left us on [date of death]. Loved and missed by [list of family members], [first name] brought light to everyone with [his/her/their] passion for [hobbies or interests]. Contributions to [charity], a cause close to their heart, are appreciated.”
This brief yet meaningful obituary recognises the joy [first name] brought into the lives of others and provides an opportunity to contribute to a cause they cared about, keeping their legacy alive.
Obituary Example 2
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved child, [full name], who was taken from us too soon on [date of death] at the tender age of [age]. [He/She/They] filled our lives with boundless joy, curiosity, and love. Though [his/her/their] time was brief, the happiness [he/she/they] brought will live on in our hearts forever. A service celebrating [first name]’s precious life will be held on [date] at [location], where we will gather to remember and honour a life that, though short, was truly a gift to all of us.”
This example celebrates a young life and invites friends and family to gather in remembrance, keeping their memory alive within a loving community.
Obituary Examples: For a Lifelong Friend
Honouring the life of a dear friend who has passed can be a way to cherish their friendship and the joy they brought into the world. Here are examples to celebrate a friend’s life.
Obituary Example 1
“We remember [full name], whose spirit departed from us on [date of death] at the age of [age]. A beacon of unwavering friendship, [first name] left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to know them. We invite all who cherished [first name] to join us for a ceremony of remembrance at [location] on [date]. Together, we’ll share stories, laughter, and tears as [first name] would have wanted. For those who wish to honour [first name]’s legacy, donations to [charity/organisation] are welcomed, reflecting their commitment to [cause or community service].”
This example captures the warmth and friendship [first name] offered to the world and provides an opportunity for others to continue their legacy through charity.
Obituary Example 2
“We bid farewell to [full name], a true friend and beacon of kindness, who departed from this world on [date of death]. [First name]’s gentle strength and grace touched the lives of everyone [he/she/they] encountered. Known for [cause or advocacy], [first name] dedicated time to making the world brighter. A lover of [hobbies or interests], [first name] reminded us to find joy in life’s simple moments. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to [charity], a cause deeply meaningful to [first name]. Please join us in celebrating [first name]’s life.”
This obituary honours the friend’s compassion and provides a chance for the community to gather and remember their life with joy and gratitude.
Obituary Examples: For Mothers
Losing a mother is a profound loss. An obituary can help honour her life, her nurturing spirit, and the legacy she leaves behind.
Obituary Example 1
“Our dear mother, [full name], sadly passed away on [date of death], at the age of [age]. She was a wonderful mother who offered boundless support, wisdom, and love. A friend to many, she was a cherished member of the community in [place of residence]. Predeceased by [family members who passed before], she leaves behind [family members who are still alive] and countless friends who will remember her warmth and generosity.”
This announcement celebrates a mother’s legacy, acknowledging both her familial role and her impact within the community.
Obituary Example 2
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of my mother, [full name], who left us on [date of death] after a beautifully lived life. Filled with laughter, love, and resilience, she touched the lives of all who knew her. To honour her journey, a memorial service will be held at [location] on [date]. We invite all who knew her to join us in remembering a remarkable woman whose love continues to surround us.”
This obituary celebrates a mother’s life and invites others to join in a memorial, allowing her memory to be cherished by all who knew her.
Obituary Examples: For Fathers
Writing an obituary for a father can highlight his role as a protector, a provider, and a beloved family member. Here are examples to honour his life and legacy.
Obituary Example 1
“It is with profound sadness that I share the passing of my beloved father, [full name], who left us on [date of death] at the age of [age]. Surrounded by family and friends, he was a man of great humour and wisdom, who cherished each moment with loved ones. His passion for [hobbies or interests] and his joyful spirit will be fondly remembered. Survived by [list of family members], we will continue his legacy by living each day to the fullest.”
This example captures a father’s essence, focusing on his personality and the love he shared with his family.
Obituary Example 2
“We bid farewell to our father, [full name], who departed this world on [date of death] at the age of [age]. A pillar of strength and love, he leaves a profound void in our hearts. To commemorate his life, a service will be held at [location] on [date]. We welcome all who knew him to join us in celebrating a man deeply loved and truly missed.”
This obituary highlights a father’s role as a supportive figure, inviting the community to celebrate his life and remember his lasting impact.
Eulogy: Another Way to Honour a Loved One in Writing
These examples and templates provide a foundation for writing a respectful and heartfelt obituary. If you’re planning to publish the obituary in a local newspaper, bear in mind any word or character limits they may impose.
Additionally, another way to honour a loved one is through a eulogy, which is typically read aloud at a funeral or memorial service. A eulogy offers a more personal reflection on the life and legacy of the deceased, capturing the unique essence of their spirit and the deep impact they had on others. A eulogy can include specific stories, characteristics, and fond memories, providing a touching tribute to the individual’s life.
