FAQs
Alternative Options for Publishing an Obituary
If a family chooses not to write an obituary, that's okay. No law insists families should publish an obituary. But there are several alternative options available for families to help pay tribute to the deceased.
What is the first line of an obituary? ›
Ideas for the Beginning Paragraph
On (day, date), (full name of deceased) of (city of residence) passed away at the age of ____ years. The family of (full name of deceased) of (city of residence) is saddened to announce his/her passing on (day, date) at the age of _____ years.
What are the final words on an obituary? ›
Some families make the final line a dedication honoring their loved one. Phrases like “We will always carry your memory in our hearts,” or perhaps a favorite quote of your loved one are heartfelt and personal. Other families select a short prayer, a religious quotation, or a line from a poem to place at the end.
What do you say after reading an obituary? ›
A Short List of Appropriate Phrases:
- Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
- Please accept my condolences on the loss of your partner.
- With deepest sympathy for your loss.
- Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Please know our loving thoughts embrace you each and every day.
When writing an obituary, leave out details that could be used for identity theft, such as the deceased's date and place of birth, middle name, maiden name and mother's maiden name. And don't include the deceased's home address.
Is it disrespectful not to have an obituary? ›
Deciding not to publish an obituary is #perfectlynormal in grief. If publishing an obituary in the paper or online feels (or felt) wrong to you - perhaps drawing unwanted attention or sharing on a level beyond what's comfortable - that's OK. There is no one right way to honor someone you love.
What is a good short obituary example? ›
[Full Name], aged [age of the deceased], passed away peacefully on [date of death], at [location of death]. He/she was born on [date of birth], in [birthplace], to [names of parents]. He/she was a proud resident of [city of residence] and was a 1975 graduate of Holy Cross High School.
What is the last paragraph of an obituary? ›
The closing paragraph is typically rather short and includes details regarding services or gatherings, as well as any requests regarding donations being made to charities or organizations that are meaningful to the deceased.
How soon after death do you write an obituary? ›
There is no specific rule that requires you to publish an obituary right away. In most cases, people aim to publish an obituary 1-2 weeks following the passing of a loved one. However, publishing it months or even a year after a loved one's death is completely okay.
What is the most common last words before death? ›
“A nurse from the hospice told me that the last words of dying men often resembled each other,” wrote Hajo Schumacher in a September essay in Der Spiegel. “Almost everyone is calling for 'Mommy' or 'Mama' with the last breath.”
It's important to remember that an obituary is supposed to be an announcement and brief biography of the deceased. Don't feel the need to recount every detail of their life. Also try to avoid bragging about every accomplishment or award the deceased received.
What is a good sentence for obituary? ›
Obituary Example: Announcing the Funeral. [Full name], [age], of [where they lived], 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 honor at [time] on [date] at [location].
How to not cry when reading a eulogy? ›
As you are giving your speech, if you begin to feel tears swell up, look up at the audience. This quick action can serve as a distraction for your mind and help hold the tears back. You can also scan the audience to see a friendly face which may also help in making you feel more relaxed and able to hold back the tears.
What is a good tribute message? ›
In a tribute, write about the person's best qualities and successes in life. Share how they changed your life or made you a better version of yourself. Summon admiration for their life's work and what it meant to them.
How to end an obituary? ›
At the end of an obituary a special message is sometimes found, such as 'in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to..' or 'Special Thanks to the staff at General Hospital for..' or 'We will always carry your memory in our hearts'. Sometimes a short prayer or a line from a poem is placed at the end.
How To Write An Obituary – A Step-by-Step GuideThe Remembrance Processhttps://www.remembranceprocess.com ›
Today, many obituaries are published in two versions; an abbreviated form for the newspaper, and a more detailed version that is read online at the funeral home...
There is no legal requirement to have an obituary when someone dies. However, an obituary, or an online death notice, can be a good way to share news of the dea...
Why do some obituaries go viral? There's nothing quite so moving as an obituary that truly captures and honors the spirit of the deceased.
Some may feel that it is too personal or private to share with the public, while others may not have the financial means to pay for its publication. Additionally, some families may prefer to grieve privately and not draw attention to the death.
Who is responsible for writing an obituary? ›
Family Members of the Deceased
The primary responsibility for writing obituaries often rests with family members. When a person passes away, the assumed responsibility for obituary writing often falls on the family. There is, of course, a good reason for this.
Why is an obituary important? ›
An obituary provides a historical map for future generations. As the years go by, new family members may wish to know about their loved one and understand what they were like in life. An obituary is a great tool to help future generations connect to your loved one's story.
Are there rules to writing an obituary? ›
How to Write an Obituary
- Their age upon death.
- Birthday.
- Birthplace.
- A list of the surviving relatives.
- The date of death.
- The location (city/state) where they died.
- Details about the funeral service: date, time, place.
- Full name.
