Understanding the Importance of an Obituary
An obituary serves as a respectful tribute to the life of a loved one who has passed away. It is a public announcement that provides details about the deceased, their life, and the funeral or memorial service arrangements. This guide will walk you through the process of filling out an obituary template to ensure you honor your loved one’s memory appropriately.
Gathering Necessary Information
Basic Information
Start by collecting the basic details of the deceased, including:
- Full Name (including maiden name, if applicable)
- Date of Birth and Date of Death
- Place of Birth
- Names of Surviving Family Members
Life Achievements and Personal Stories
Consider including significant life achievements, hobbies, and personal anecdotes that celebrate the unique personality of the deceased. This can include:
- Education and Career Highlights
- Community Involvement and Volunteer Work
- Hobbies and Interests
- Personal Stories or Quotes
Choosing the Right Obituary Template
At QuickFuneral.com, we offer a variety of obituary templates to suit different styles and preferences. Select a template that aligns with your loved one’s personality and the tone of the service.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the Template
Step 1: Start with the Headline
The headline typically includes the full name of the deceased, their age, and the date of passing. For example, “In Loving Memory of John Doe, 75, who passed away on October 10, 2023.”
Step 2: Write the Announcement
Begin with a statement announcing the death, including the location and cause if appropriate. “John Doe, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Springfield, surrounded by family.”
Step 3: Include Biographical Information
Share a brief biography that highlights the deceased’s life journey, including education, career, and family life. “John was born in Springfield, attended Springfield High School, and graduated from State University with a degree in Engineering.”
Step 4: List Surviving Family Members
Include the names of immediate family members who survive the deceased. “He is survived by his wife, Jane Doe; his children, Michael Doe and Sarah Doe; and three grandchildren.”
Step 5: Provide Service Details
Inform readers about the funeral or memorial service details, including the date, time, and location. “A celebration of John’s life will be held on October 20, 2023, at Springfield Community Church at 2 PM.”
Step 6: Add a Personal Touch
Conclude with a personal touch, such as a favorite quote, a thank you to caregivers, or a request for donations in lieu of flowers. “In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Springfield Animal Shelter in John’s honor.”
Reviewing and Finalizing the Obituary
Once you have completed the template, review it for accuracy and clarity. Consider sharing it with family members for feedback to ensure it reflects the deceased’s life accurately.
FAQs About Obituaries
- What is the purpose of an obituary? An obituary serves to publicly announce a person’s death and celebrate their life.
- How long should an obituary be? Typically, obituaries range from 200 to 450 words, but length can vary based on personal preference and publication guidelines.
- Can I include a photo? Yes, including a photo can add a personal touch and help readers remember the deceased.
- Should I mention the cause of death? Mentioning the cause of death is optional and should be based on the family’s comfort level.
- How soon after death should an obituary be published? Ideally, an obituary should be published within a week of the person’s passing.
- Where can I publish an obituary? Obituaries can be published in local newspapers, online memorial sites, and social media platforms.
Additional Resources
For more assistance, consider using our AI Obituary Writer tool, which can help streamline the process of writing an obituary.
Explore our funeral invitation templates to complement your service planning.