How to Write an Obituary?

Why Writing an Obituary Seems Overwhelming

The passing of a loved one can be an emotionally turbulent time, filled with admiring memories and the heavy weight of loss. Amidst this turmoil, many find themselves tasked with encapsulating the entirety of a life in just a few paragraphs. Often, the question arises: "How to write an obituary?" This article aims to guide you through this somber journey with care, techniques, and insights that can transform a daunting task into a meaningful tribute.

You’ll Learn:

1. What an Obituary Is
2. Key Elements of an Obituary
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Obituary
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
5. Personalizing Your Tribute
6. Reviewing and Editing Tips

Understanding What an Obituary Is

An obituary serves a dual purpose—an announcement to the world about the passing and a celebration of the deceased's life. It encapsulates their achievements, qualities, and milestones. Published in newspapers and online platforms, obituaries serve as a public record and help in the communal grieving process.

Key Elements of an Obituary

Knowing how to write an obituary involves understanding its fundamental components. Here are the elements one should consider:

1. Announcement of Death: This includes the name, age, and residence of the deceased, along with the time and place of passing.

2. Biographical Information: Details such as date of birth, education, career milestones, and personal achievements.

3. Family Members: Immediate family members, both preceding and surviving, should be mentioned appropriately.

4. Service Information: Include details of any funeral or memorial services, along with open visitations and family requests.

5. Personal Message: Conclude with a meaningful sentence or saying that encapsulates their legacy or a request for donations to causes they cherished.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Obituary

1. Gather Accurate Information: Start by collecting detailed and accurate details about the deceased's life. Interview family members, look through old documents, and ensure no aspect of their life is misrepresented.

2. Begin with the Basics: Announce the death clearly, using their full name, age, place of death, and, if applicable, cause of death. This is sensitive information, so confirm its accuracy before publication.

3. Craft their Life Story: Highlight important life milestones. Focus on character-defining achievements such as education, career paths, volunteer work, marriages, and passions. Share anecdotes that capture their essence.

4. Family Ties: List surviving family members by their relation to the deceased. Include family members who preceded them in death. Be sure to check name spellings and relationships.

5. Service Details: Clearly state when and where any memorials or funeral services will be held. Include any wishes for donations or expressions of support.

6. Add a Personal Touch: Close the obituary with a personal sentiment or life quote. This can provide comfort and capture the spirit of the deceased.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While learning how to write an obituary, steer clear of common pitfalls:

• Overly Long or Short Text: Find a balance—enough to describe a full life in a concise but comprehensive manner.

• Inaccurate Information: Double-check all facts, from dates to names, to ensure accuracy.

• Lack of Focus: Avoid superficial commentary. Focus on meaningful anecdotes and characteristics.

Personalizing Your Tribute

A well-written obituary reflects the unique individual it commemorates. Personal anecdotes and stories serve as touchstones for mourners, helping everyone remember the person beyond their achievements. Here's how you can add personal anecdotes:

• Write about unexpected passions or hobbies that defined them.
• Share a humorous story that highlights their personality.
• Mention specific accomplishments, like completing a marathon or fostering dogs.

Reviewing and Editing Tips

Editing is a crucial phase in writing an obituary. Here are several tips:

• Solicit Feedback: Before publishing, show the obituary draft to family members or close friends for additional input.

• Read Aloud: Listening to the words can highlight awkward phrasing or redundancies.

• Professional Services: Consider enlisting a professional obituary writer or service, especially if words escape you in your grief.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How early should I write an obituary?

Although obituaries are commonly written posthumously, there’s no harm in drafting segments in advance, especially if the death is anticipated.

2. Can I include a controversial opinion or event?

It’s best to focus on respectful and positive aspects. An obituary is a public tribute, so sensitivity is key.

3. Is there a word limit for obituaries?

Obituaries can range from 200 to 600 words. Newspaper charges might influence the length, while online versions allow more freedom.

Summary

Writing an obituary is an intimate task that allows for reflecting on and honoring the life of a departed loved one. This guide on how to write an obituary aims to ensure that you capture the essence of that person's life with accuracy and grace. By following the structured steps and respecting the nuances of personal storytelling, you can create a fitting tribute that resonates with all who read it.