Understanding the ‘Survived By’ Section in Obituaries
Writing an obituary is a heartfelt way to honor a loved one’s life. One important aspect is the ‘survived by’ section, which lists the family members and close relatives left behind. This section is a tribute to the family ties and relationships that were significant to the deceased.
Why the ‘Survived By’ Section Matters
The ‘survived by’ section provides a sense of who remains to cherish the memory of the deceased. It helps readers understand the family structure and offers a glimpse into the personal connections that were important in the deceased’s life.
How to Write the ‘Survived By’ Section
When writing this part of an obituary, it is essential to be accurate, respectful, and considerate. Here are some guidelines to help you:
1. Start with Immediate Family
Begin by listing the closest family members, such as the spouse, children, and grandchildren. For example, “John is survived by his loving wife, Mary, and their two children, Anna and James.”
2. Include Extended Family
After immediate family, mention other relatives such as siblings, parents, and grandparents. For instance, “He is also survived by his sister, Lisa, and his parents, Robert and Helen.”
3. Mention Special Relationships
If there were particularly close relationships, such as a lifelong friend or caregiver, consider including them. This acknowledges their importance in the deceased’s life.
4. Use Full Names and Titles
To avoid confusion, use full names and titles where appropriate. This is especially helpful in large families or when relatives have similar names.
5. Be Sensitive and Inclusive
Consider the feelings of those mentioned and those who are not. It’s important to be inclusive and sensitive to family dynamics and relationships.
Sample ‘Survived By’ Statements
Here are some sample statements to guide you:
- “He leaves behind his devoted wife, Emily, his beloved daughters, Sarah and Rachel, and cherished grandchildren, Lily and Sam.”
- “Survived by her loving parents, Michael and Linda, and her dear brother, Thomas.”
- “She is survived by her partner, Alex, and her lifelong friend, Carol.”
Obituary Writing Tools and Templates
For those who need assistance, QuickFuneral.com offers AI-powered obituary writing tools and obituary templates to help you craft a meaningful tribute.
FAQs About Writing the ‘Survived By’ Section
- What if the deceased had no surviving family?
In such cases, you might mention close friends or community members who were like family. - How do I handle estranged family members?
Consider the wishes of the deceased and the family’s preference. It’s okay to omit names if it might cause distress. - Should I include stepfamilies?
Yes, if they were an important part of the deceased’s life. - Is it necessary to list everyone?
No, focus on those who had meaningful relationships with the deceased. - Can I use nicknames?
Include them if they were commonly used and recognized by the family. - How do I handle large families?
You can summarize by mentioning the number of grandchildren or great-grandchildren instead of listing each one.
For more guidance on writing obituaries, visit our obituary templates page for comprehensive resources and examples.