Obituary Writing Template

Writing an obituary while grieving can feel like a lot to manage. This simple structure can help you gather the important details first, then add the stories, qualities, and memories that made your loved one unique.

Use the obituary writing resource below to begin, or copy the outline further down the page and adapt it in your own words.

A simple obituary outline to follow

You do not need to include every detail. Choose what feels right for your family and for the person you are honoring.

1. Announcement: Share the person’s full name, age if you wish, and date and place of passing.
2. Life story: Briefly note where they were born, important milestones, work, service, interests, or accomplishments.
3. Family: Name close family members, survivors, and loved ones in the way your family prefers.
4. What they were known for: Include a few personal qualities, favorite activities, traditions, stories, or words that reflect their life.
5. Service details: List the date, time, and location of the funeral, memorial, visitation, or celebration of life, if these details are being shared publicly.
6. Closing information: Add interment details, a charitable giving preference, or a message of gratitude if appropriate.

Copy-and-personalize obituary template

[Full Name], [age], of [city/state], passed away on 2026. Born on 2026 in [place], [first name] was known for [a quality, passion, role, or memory].

Throughout their life, [he/she/they] found meaning in [family, work, community, faith, hobbies, or other meaningful parts of life]. [Add one or two sentences about cherished memories, achievements, or the impact they had on others.]

[First name] is survived by [names or family relationships]. [Add predeceased family members if you wish.]

A [funeral/memorial service/celebration of life] will be held on 2026 at [time] at [location]. [Add visitation, interment, charitable donation, or thank-you information if desired.]

Turn an obituary into a funeral program

An obituary shares a life story. A funeral or memorial program can also help guests follow the service and keep a tangible remembrance afterward. It may include the obituary alongside the order of service, readings, music, pallbearers, photographs, poems, and family messages.

For additional guidance, see writing an obituary, explore online funeral programs, or review a funeral program template.

Details commonly included in a funeral program

• The person’s full name and dates of birth and death
• Funeral, memorial, or celebration-of-life date, time, and location
• Order of service, including readings, music, speakers, or a eulogy
• Names of the officiant, pallbearers, or other participants, when applicable
• Interment information, if the family wishes to include it
• Photos, a short biography, poems, favorite quotes, artwork, or acknowledgments

For religious services

Families may also wish to include scripture or other readings, the name of each reader, bereavement verses, and the names of service participants where appropriate.

Create a personalized funeral program online

QuickFuneral’s online designer can help you build a funeral program with text and photos. The source materials describe options to choose a background, upload your own background, add pictures and text boxes, and arrange elements on the page.

Open the Funeral Card Designer

If you are choosing a cover, consider an image that feels personal to the service and the person being remembered, such as a favorite photo, a photo collage, flowers, a nature scene, or a faith-based symbol.