How to Write an Obituary
A practical guide to writing a meaningful obituary that honours your loved one — from gathering details to finding the right tone.
Writing an obituary can feel daunting at a difficult time, but it is one of the most meaningful ways to honour someone who has passed. A well-written obituary tells the story of a life and helps family, friends, and the wider community remember the person they loved.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Collect Basic Information
Gather the essential details about the deceased: their full name, date of birth, date of death, and location of death. You may also wish to include the cause of death if it feels appropriate to share.
Include Background Information
Write about the key chapters of their life — their education, career, accomplishments, and any organisations or causes they were affiliated with. This helps paint a picture of who they were and what they achieved.
Highlight Personal Details and Interests
This is where the obituary comes alive. Emphasise the qualities that made the person unique: their hobbies, interests, and personality traits. Share anecdotes or stories that demonstrate their character — the things that made people smile, laugh, or feel grateful to have known them.
Mention Immediate Family
Name the surviving immediate family members — their spouse, children, parents, and siblings. It is also customary to acknowledge any predeceased family members.
Include Funeral and Memorial Service Details
Provide the date, time, and location of the funeral, memorial service, or wake. Include any instructions related to flowers, donations, or charitable contributions in lieu of flowers.
Keep a Professional Tone and Appropriate Length
The language of an obituary should be clear, respectful, and warm. Generally, an obituary should be concise and informative — between 200 and 500 words is typical. Focus on what mattered most and let the person’s character shine through.
Once published, consider preserving the obituary as part of a lasting online memorial. With MyEpitaph, you can create a beautiful, permanent tribute page with photos, videos, and a space for loved ones to share their own memories.