Obituary Templates, Examples & Writing Guide
Writing an obituary for someone you love can feel like a lot to hold at once. Start with a clear format, include the details that matter most, and add the memories that reflect their life.
Browse obituary templates or download these free obituary templates to begin.
Start with an obituary template
An obituary template is a ready-to-use structure for sharing a person’s name, important dates, family connections, life story, and service information. It can reduce the pressure of starting from a blank page while leaving room for the details that made your loved one unique.
Use the template below as a starting point, then adjust the order, length, and wording to suit your family.
Fill-in-the-blank obituary template
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026 in [city]. Born on [birthdate] in [hometown], [First Name] was a beloved [relationship] known for [key trait].
[First Name] graduated from [institution] and worked as a [profession] at [company]. They enjoyed [hobbies] and were active in [community or organization]. Survived by [family members], [First Name] will be deeply missed.
A funeral or memorial service will be held on 2026 at [location]. In lieu of flowers, donations to [charity] are appreciated.
What to include in an obituary
You do not need to include every detail. Choose information that feels accurate, appropriate, and meaningful to the family.
- The person’s full name, optional nickname, age, and birth and death dates.
- A brief life summary, including hometown, education, work, interests, or community involvement.
- Personal qualities, favorite activities, or a short memory that reflects who they were.
- Names of surviving family members, where appropriate.
- Funeral or memorial service details, plus flower or donation preferences if desired.
The cause of death is optional. Before publishing, verify names, dates, service details, and any family information with those closest to the arrangements.
For more writing support, see our guide to writing a funeral program obituary and our advice on avoiding common obituary mistakes.
Write an obituary in five steps
- Gather the essentials. Collect the full name, important dates, hometown, family details, and service information.
- Open with the announcement. State that the person died, along with the date and place if you wish to include them.
- Share their story. Select a few meaningful details about family life, work, interests, achievements, or community.
- Add service details. Include the date, time, and location, as well as donation or flower information when applicable.
- Review together. Ask a family member to check spelling, dates, names, and tone before the obituary is shared.
A concise obituary is often easier to read and review. Keep private or sensitive details out unless the family agrees they should be included.
Choose an obituary program format
If you are preparing a printed memorial, QuickFuneral offers obituary templates in two common layouts. Choose the format that best fits your printing and service needs.
- 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.
Bordered and borderless options are available. You can also explore obituary programs and a program template for a printed keepsake.
Editable obituary templates
Use an editable format when you want to add photos, personal stories, poems, or service details. QuickFuneral’s online tools allow you to customize text and photos, including drag-and-drop editing, photo background removal, and saved projects that can be accessed from any device.
Obituary examples for inspiration
These short examples show how the same structure can be adapted for different relationships. Replace the bracketed details with information that feels true to the person being remembered.
[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], she brought joy to all.
She loved [hobbies] and was a member of [church or organization]. 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], [First Name] was married to [spouse] for [years]. Born in [hometown], [First Name] loved [hobbies] and was known for [trait].
Survived by [family], [First Name] will be deeply missed. A service is set for 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are preferred.
[Full Name], [age], passed away on 2026. Born in [hometown], [First Name] was a [profession] and loved [hobbies]. A caring [brother or sister] to [siblings], [First Name] 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. A [profession], [First Name] was a loving [grandfather or grandmother] to [grandchildren]. Born in [hometown], [First Name] enjoyed [hobbies] and was known for [trait].
Survived by [family], a service will be held on 2026 at [location]. Donations to [charity] are requested.
Free obituary generator
If you would prefer guided help, answer questions about your loved one’s life to create a personalized obituary draft. Review and customize it so the final wording reflects their story.
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Frequently asked questions
How long should an obituary be?
There is no required length. A concise obituary can be easier to review and share; the most important thing is including the details and memories your family feels are meaningful.
Should I include the cause of death?
It is optional. Include it only if the family is comfortable sharing it publicly.
How do I choose the right tone?
Use a respectful, heartfelt voice that sounds natural for your family. Focus on the person’s relationships, character, and memories rather than trying to make the wording overly formal.
What should I check before publishing an obituary?
Confirm names, dates, locations, service times, and family information. It also helps to have another family member proofread the final version for accuracy and tone.
Can I include donation or flower information?
Yes. If the family has a preference, include a clear note such as: “In lieu of flowers, donations to [charity] are appreciated.”
What photo should I use?
Choose a clear photo that reflects the person’s personality or a meaningful moment in their life. Make sure the family is comfortable with the image before using it.
More funeral planning resources
For related memorial materials, explore funeral program templates, trifold funeral programs, and eulogy templates.
You can also use the obituary maker to create a professional tribute.