Obituary Writing Guide
If you’re looking for an easy starting point, this Obituary Writing Guide walks you through what to include in an obituary, then gives you sample wording and fill-in templates. It also links to additional support if you want more help: writing an obituary.
Quick start: what to include
Most obituaries include a few core sections. Use this checklist to organize your draft:
- Basic details: full name, age, date and place of death
- Life information: birth date/place, education, career, hobbies and interests
- Accomplishments: milestones, awards, honors, or recognitions
- Family details: surviving family members (you may also include predeceased family members if you wish)
- Service information: date/time/location for the funeral or memorial service
- Ways to honor: flowers, memorial donations, or other requests
Tip: You don’t need to include everything. Focus on the parts of their story that feel most important.
Obituary writing guide examples (two tones)
Below are two sample styles you can adapt by swapping in your loved one’s details.
Example 1 (Formal)
[Deceased’s Name], age [age], of [city], passed away peacefully on 2026 at [place of death]. [He/She] was born on [birth date] in [birthplace] to [parents’ names]. [Deceased’s name] graduated from [school] and went on to pursue a successful career in [profession]. [He/She] was known for [his/her] dedication to [cause or interest] and [his/her] love for [hobby or interest]. [Deceased’s name] is survived by [surviving family members]. A funeral service will be held on 2026 at [location]. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to [charity].
Example 2 (Personal)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved [Deceased’s Name], age [age], on 2026 in [city]. [He/She] was a loving spouse, parent, grandparent, and friend. [Deceased’s name] was born on [birth date] in [birthplace] to [parents’ names] and grew up in [city]. [He/She] attended [school] and later pursued a career in [profession]. [Deceased’s name] had a passion for [hobby or interest] and was known for [his/her] kind heart and generous spirit. [He/She] will be deeply missed by [surviving family members]. A celebration of [his/her] life will be held on 2026 at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to [charity].
Obituary templates you can fill in
An obituary template is a structured guide for creating an obituary. It includes key sections—name, age, date/place of death, biographical information, family details, service information, and a closing message—so you don’t have to wonder what comes next.
If you want a starting framework, use one of the templates below.
Template 1 (Formal)
[Deceased’s Name], age [age], of [city], passed away on 2026 at [place of death]. [He/She] was born on [birth date] in [birthplace] to [parents’ names]. [Deceased’s name] graduated from [school] and pursued a career in [profession]. [He/She] is survived by [surviving family members]. A funeral service will be held on 2026 at [location]. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to [charity].
Template 2 (Personal)
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved [Deceased’s Name], age [age], on 2026 in [city]. [He/She] was a loving spouse, parent, grandparent, and friend. [Deceased’s name] was born on [birth date] in [birthplace] to [parents’ names] and grew up in [city]. [He/She] will be deeply missed by [surviving family members]. A celebration of [his/her] life will be held on 2026 at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to [charity].
Why templates and examples help
Using a template or example can make the process easier to manage. It helps you decide what information matters most, find wording that feels natural and respectful, and shape the obituary around the person’s life, accomplishments, and impact.
Funeral Obituary Templates
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Frequently Asked Questions About Obituary Writing
Writing an obituary can be emotional. Here are a few common questions that may help.
Why is it important to write a well-crafted obituary?
A well-crafted obituary serves as a lasting tribute, informs the community about the passing, and provides details about the funeral or memorial service.
Can I use a template to write an obituary?
Yes. A template can help you structure the obituary and ensure important details are included while still leaving room for personalization.
How can I personalize an obituary?
You can personalize it by including anecdotes, memories, and unique characteristics. Hobbies, interests, and contributions to others can also make the obituary feel more true to the person.
Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary?
There aren’t strict rules, but it’s best to write in a way that is respectful, accurate, and concise. If possible, consider any wishes or preferences shared by the family.
What information should be included in an obituary?
Common elements include the full name, age, date and place of death, biographical information (like education and career), surviving family members, service details, and any requests for memorials or donations.