How to Create a Meaningful Obituary with Free Templates
Struggling to write an obituary for a loved one? Our free obituary templates and step-by-step guide simplify the process, helping you craft a heartfelt tribute that honors their life and legacy. Follow these tips to create a professional obituary quickly and easily.
What Is an Obituary Template?
An obituary template is a pre-designed format that helps you write a tribute for someone who has passed away. It includes key details like the deceased’s name, age, birth and death dates, hometown, and surviving family members. These templates save time, reduce stress, and ensure a respectful, organized obituary.
Our free obituary templates offer customizable sections for achievements, hobbies, and personal stories, making it easy to create a unique tribute. Whether you’re new to obituary writing or seeking a polished format, these templates provide a clear structure to celebrate your loved one’s life.
Why Use QuickFuneral’s Obituary Templates?
QuickFuneral’s online software makes creating obituary programs simple and professional. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Easy Customization: Choose from hundreds of templates and add unlimited photos and text with drag-and-drop functionality.
- Advanced Features: Remove photo backgrounds with one click and auto-save your project for access from any device.
- No Software Downloads: Create and edit your obituary template online, saving time and effort.
Our tools ensure a high-quality tribute without compromising on personalization, perfect for memorial services or keepsakes.
Sample Obituary Template
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026 in [city]. Born on [birthdate] in [hometown], [First Name] was a beloved [relationship, e.g., father, teacher] known for [key trait, e.g., kindness].
[First Name] graduated from [institution] and worked as a [profession] at [company]. They enjoyed [hobbies] and were active in [community/organization]. Survived by [family members], [First Name] will be deeply missed.
A funeral service will be held on 2026 at [location]. In lieu of flowers, donations to [charity] are appreciated.
Available Sizes for Obituary Templates
Our obituary templates come in two popular sizes:
- 1-up: 8.5 x 11 inches, folded to 5.5 x 8.5 inches.
- 2-up: Two programs on 8.5 x 11 inches, folded to 4.25 x 5.5 inches.
Choose bordered or borderless options based on your printing preferences.
Benefits of Using Obituary Templates
Using an obituary program template offers several advantages:
- Time-Saving: Pre-formatted sections streamline the writing process.
- Cost-Effective: Free templates reduce design expenses.
- Comprehensive: Includes space for poems, photos, and service details.
These templates can be used for memorial candles, books, or printed programs, ensuring a lasting tribute.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Obituary
Writing an obituary can feel overwhelming, but our guide breaks it down into manageable steps:
- Gather Basic Information: Collect the deceased’s full name, birthdate, death date, and funeral details.
- Announce the Passing: Mention the date and optionally the cause of death.
- Share Biographical Details: Highlight education, career, hobbies, and family life.
- Include Service Information: Provide date, time, and location of the funeral or memorial.
- Add Personal Touches: Share anecdotes or qualities that made them special.
For more tips, read our guide on writing a funeral program obituary.
What to Include and Avoid in an Obituary
What to Include:
- Full name, age, and dates of birth/death.
- Education, career, and notable achievements.
- Family members and community involvement.
- Funeral service details and donation requests.
What to Avoid:
- Overly personal details that may compromise privacy.
- Excessive length—keep it concise (150–300 words).
- Unverified information or sensitive family matters.
Learn more about avoiding common obituary mistakes.
Editable Templates for Obituary
Obituary Examples for Inspiration
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026 in [city]. A dedicated [profession], he worked at [company] for [years]. Born in [hometown], he was a loving husband to [spouse] and father to [children].
He enjoyed [hobbies] and was active in [organization]. Survived by [family], his legacy lives on. A service will be held on 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are welcomed.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. Born in [hometown], she was a devoted mother to [children] and wife to [spouse]. Known for her [trait, e.g., cooking], she brought joy to all.
She loved [hobbies] and was a member of [church]. Survived by [family], her memory will endure. A private service is planned. Donations to [charity] in her name are appreciated.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. A [profession], he was married to [spouse] for [years]. Born in [hometown], he loved [hobbies] and was known for [trait].
Survived by [family], his kindness will be missed. A service is set for 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are preferred.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. A loving wife to [spouse] and mother to [children], she was born in [hometown]. Her [trait] touched many lives.
She enjoyed [hobbies]. Survived by [family], a service will be held on 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are requested.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. Born in [hometown], he was a [profession] and loved [hobbies]. A caring brother to [siblings], he was admired for [trait].
Survived by [family], a service is planned for 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are appreciated.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. Born in [hometown], she was a [profession] with a passion for [hobbies]. Her [trait] inspired many.
Survived by [family], a private service will be held. Donations to [charity] are welcomed.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. A [profession], he was a loving grandfather to [grandchildren]. Born in [hometown], he enjoyed [hobbies].
Survived by [family], a service is set for 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are preferred.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. Born in [hometown], she was a devoted grandmother to [grandchildren]. Known for [trait], she loved [hobbies].
Survived by [family], a service will be held on 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are requested.
Free Obituary Generator Tool
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Frequently Asked Questions About Obituary Templates
What details should an obituary include?
- Full name and optional nickname.
- Birth and death dates.
- Age and hometown.
- Cause of death (optional).
- Funeral service details (date, time, location).
- Brief life summary, achievements, and hobbies.
- Surviving family members.
How do I choose the right tone for an obituary?
Use a respectful, heartfelt tone that reflects your connection to the deceased. Avoid overly formal language; instead, write as if sharing memories with friends and family.
How can I ensure accuracy in an obituary?
- Verify all dates, names, and details with family members.
- Keep the obituary concise to avoid errors.
- Plan and proofread before publishing.
Should I include donation or flower information?
Yes, use phrases like “In lieu of flowers, donations to [charity] are appreciated” to guide mourners respectfully.
How do I choose a photo for the obituary?
Select a recent, high-quality photo that captures the deceased’s personality or favorite activity. Avoid images that may send inappropriate messages.
Explore More Funeral Resources
Need additional support? Check out our funeral program templates, trifold brochures, or eulogy templates to create a complete memorial package.
Our free obituary generator simplifies the writing process. Answer a few questions about your loved one’s life, and our tool creates a personalized obituary. Customize the output to reflect their unique story, then download or print it for free.
Try our obituary maker to create a professional tribute in minutes.