Simple Obituary Example
The below example is fairly simple and short. You can use this as a sort of template where you add in the information applicable to your loved one and your situation. For the most part we have colored in red where to add in your specific information. Hopefully, this gives you a framework if you are looking for a simple obituary that still captures the essence of your loved one.
[Full Name], aged [age of the deceased], passed away peacefully on [date of death], at [location of death]. He/she was born on [date of birth], in [birthplace], to [names of parents]. He/she was a proud resident of [city of residence] and was a 1975 graduate of Holy Cross High School. He/she married [name of spouse] on [date of marriage], in [location of marriage]. He/she worked as a financial consultant with Truesdell Managemet, displaying wonderful problem solving skills. [First Name] was very outgoing and loved exploring and going on adventures. His/her family and travel were his/her two biggest passions. [First Name] always had the ability to make anyone smile. He/she is survived by her wife/husband, [spouse’s first name]; an older brother, [brother’s name] (name of brother’s spouse) Robertson; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Family, friends, and others are invited to the [Funeral Home name],[Funeral Home address/location], from [time of ceremony] on [date of ceremony], to reminisce and honor the life of [deceased’s first name].
A More In-Depth Obituary Example
Writing a great obituary is very similar to writing a eulogy. In both cases, you want to convey who the deceased was a person, what made them unique, how they influenced others, and highlight their personal and professional accomplishments.
An excellent example of this is the New York Times obituary written for legendary comedian and actor Robin Williams written by Dave Itzkoff. The obituary that was published is quite lengthy and can be read in fullhere.
The following sections are excerpts from the obituary and serve as excellent examples of how to write an obituary.
Mr. Williams, as a boy, hardly fit the stereotype of someone who would grow to become a brainy comedian, or a goofy one, but he was both. Onstage he was known for ricochet riffs on politics, social issues and cultural matters both high and low; tales of drug and alcohol abuse; lewd commentaries on relations between the sexes; and lightning-like improvisations on anything an audience member might toss at him. His gigs were always rife with frenetic, spot-on impersonations that included Hollywood stars, presidents, princes, prime ministers, popes and anonymous citizens of the world. His irreverence was legendary and uncurtailable.
This first excerpt does a good job of explaining what Mr. Williams was best known for, his comedy. The excerpt outlines the style of comedy he was best known for while highlighting the talents he had to perform improv and impressions on the spot. It paints a picture of the comedic genius that Robin Williams was.
He went on to earn Academy Award nominations for his roles in films like “Good Morning, Vietnam,” in which he played a loquacious radio D.J.; “Dead Poets Society,” playing a mentor to students in need of inspiration; and “The Fisher King,” as a homeless man whose life has been struck by tragedy. He won an Oscar in 1998 for “Good Will Hunting,” playing a therapist who works with a troubled prodigy played by Matt Damon.
This section is a great example of how to highlight successes the individual had during their career. While many people were fans of Mr. Williams for his comedy, he was also an accomplished actor being nominated and winning several awards throughout his career. This shows how there was much more to Mr. Williams than just comedy. He was a talented dramatic actor and had a range of skills that were often under appreciated.
In a statement, President Obama said of Mr. Williams, “He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most — from our troops stationed abroad to the marginalized on our own streets.”
It is always a great idea to include a quote or some kind words about the impact the individual had on others. In this case, a quote from President Obama is used to show the charitable side of Mr. Williams and how he enjoyed helping others and giving back.
He is survived by a son, Zak, from his marriage to Valerie Velardi, and a daughter, Zelda, and a son, Cody, from his marriage to Marsha Garces.
An important part to include within an obituary is a reference to the deceased’s family. In this case, Mr. Williams had preceded his immediate family in death so it lists who he is survived by. If he had lost someone before him, the obituary would say preceded in death by… and then list who he is survived by.
FAQs
Include a brief summary of their life. Mention family members who have already passed away, as well as surviving family members. Share funeral or memorial service details, including whether they are public or private events. Note where donations, if applicable, may be sent.
What is the basic outline of an obituary? ›
Include a brief summary of their life. Mention family members who have already passed away, as well as surviving family members. Share funeral or memorial service details, including whether they are public or private events. Note where donations, if applicable, may be sent.
What are obituary wording examples? ›
[Full Name], aged [age of the deceased], passed away peacefully on [date of death], at [location of death]. He/she was born on [date of birth], in [birthplace], to [names of parents]. He/she was a proud resident of [city of residence] and was a 1975 graduate of Holy Cross High School.
What is the best opening line for an obituary? ›
“It is with great sadness that the family of (deceased name) announce (his/her) passing….” “(Deceased name) will be sadly missed by ….” “Fondly remembered by….” “Forever remembered by….”
What should you not include in an obituary? ›
When writing an obituary, leave out details that could be used for identity theft, such as the deceased's date and place of birth, middle name, maiden name and mother's maiden name. And don't include the deceased's home address.
Is there a template for writing an obituary? ›
A Simple Short Obituary Example Template
[Full name], [age], of [where they lived], passed away on [date of death] from [cause of death]. Preceded in death by [list of predeceased family members], and survived by [list of surviving family members].
How do you write a strong obituary? ›
What Makes a Great Obituary?
- Share their life story.
- List family members.
- Include funeral or memorial service information.
- Add charity information.
- Select a photo.
- Conclusion - Place an Obituary Online and Share.
How do you make a beautiful obituary? ›
5 Tips for Writing a Beautiful, Deeply Personal Obituary
- Informal is Okay. Many people think obituaries require formality or a stiff recitation of dates and facts. ...
- Tell A Favorite Story. People connect deeply through stories. ...
- Humor Helps. Humor goes a long way to easing sadness. ...
- Share their Passion. ...
- Practice Ahead of Time.
How do you list names in an obituary example? ›
When you are listing a relative, make sure to include their first name, their spouse's first name in brackets and then their last name. It should look something like this: “Tony leaves behind his children Stuart (Dianne) Smith, Jody (Mark) Powell, and Katherine (Nick) Harroway.”
How do you write a short and sweet obituary? ›
Beyond the basic information, even a short obituary can capture a glimpse of the person's life:
- Mention a significant accomplishment or passion. Example: "[Name] was a dedicated teacher who touched the lives of countless students."
- Highlight a cherished quality. ...
- Share a brief but meaningful detail.
If you're unsure how to end your eulogy, finish with a simple goodbye, or a thank you for the memories you shared. You might choose to use traditional phrases like 'rest in peace' or 'sleep well'. Or you can use something less formal, like a greeting or joke you used to share with the person who has died.
How should an obituary end? ›
At the end of an obituary a special message is sometimes found, such as 'in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to..' or 'Special Thanks to the staff at General Hospital for..' or 'We will always carry your memory in our hearts'. Sometimes a short prayer or a line from a poem is placed at the end.
What to omit from an obituary? ›
When you begin writing the obituary, try to omit details that could be used for identity theft including:
- Deceased's date and place of birth, middle name, maiden name, mother's maiden name or employment history and home address.
- Personal information of the surviving relatives.
What is an example of a well written obituary? ›
Short Obituary Sample:
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our cherished [Full Name] on [Date of Death]. Deeply mourned by [list of family members]. [First Name]'s love for [hobbies/interests] brought joy to everyone they met. Donations to [Charity], in honor of [First Name]'s memory, are welcome.
What information is essential in an obituary? ›
A list of the surviving relatives. The date of death. The location (city/state) where they died. Details about the funeral service: date, time, place.
What are the main parts of an obituary? ›
In essence, the elements of an obituary include:
- Death announcement.
- Date and time of memorial service.
- Biographical information or summary of life.
- List of close friends and family.
- Memorable moments and accomplishments.
- Funeral or memorial details.
- Acknowledgments and donations.
- Pictures.
What is the correct order of an obituary? ›
When you list the survivors, make sure that you list them in order of closest relation to the deceased: spouse, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, parents, and siblings. When you are listing a relative, make sure to include their first name, their spouse's first name in brackets and then their last name.
What is the first paragraph of an obituary? ›
Opening Paragraph
The first paragraph of the obituary should include the deceased person's full name, including any nicknames they may have used, their age, date and place of death. Some people choose to include cause of death, but this is optional depending on how much information you would like to share.
What is the proper way to list family members in an obituary? ›
The order should go as followed: spouse, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, parents, and siblings. It should be noted that nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws are typically unmentioned unless they were especially close to the deceased.