Writing an obituary can be an emotional task, but it also allows you to celebrate and memorialize a loved one’s life. Below is a guide on how to write an obituary, followed by a sample with placeholders to help you customize it.
Key Elements of an Obituary
Here are the key elements of an obituary for you to follow as you write your version.
Announcement of Death
Begin with the full name, age, and location of the deceased, along with the date of passing. Optionally, include the cause of death or a brief sentiment.
Biographical Information
Provide details about their life, including:
- Date and place of birth
- Education and career
- Hobbies, interests, and personality traits
- Notable accomplishments and life events
Family Information
List surviving family members and those who predeceased the deceased. Include relationships to clarify their connections.
Funeral or Memorial Service Details
Clearly outline the type of service, its date, time, and location, along with any specific requests such as dress codes or RSVP instructions.
Acknowledgments and Tributes
Mention individuals or organizations to thank, and include donation preferences in lieu of flowers if applicable.
Detailed Sample Obituary with Placeholders
This detailed sample obituary has placeholders you can fill in. Download this template from Google Docs, if you want a copy you can edit.
[Full Name]
[Date of Birth] – [Date of Death]It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of [Full Name], who passed away on [Date], at the age of [Age]. [First Name] was surrounded by [family/loved ones] at [location, e.g., home, hospital] after a [brief/long] illness.
Born on [Date] in [City, Province/State], [First Name] grew up with a passion for [interest or trait, e.g., art, sports, nature]. After attending [School/University], [First Name] pursued a career in [Profession], where they [key accomplishment, e.g., “designed award-winning buildings” or “helped countless patients”]. Their dedication to [specific field or cause] left a lasting impact on [community/profession].
Outside of work, [First Name] enjoyed [hobbies or interests, e.g., hiking, painting, gardening] and was known for [personal qualities, e.g., “their infectious laugh and generous spirit”]. They especially loved spending time with [family, pets, or friends], making cherished memories that will live on forever.
[First Name] is survived by [list of surviving family members, e.g., spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings, and close friends]. [They/he/she] was predeceased by [list of family members or loved ones who passed before].
A [type of service, e.g., “celebration of life,” “funeral service”] will be held on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue Name], located at [Address]. The family invites all who knew [First Name] to attend and share memories. Guests are [encouraged/requested] to [specific request, e.g., “wear bright colors” or “RSVP by [date]”].
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to [individuals/organizations, e.g., hospice staff, caregivers, community members] for their support and compassion during this time. In lieu of flowers, donations in [First Name]’s memory may be made to [Charity Name]. Condolences and memories can be shared at [website or email].
Obituary Example (with Placeholders Filled)
This version has examples so you can see the full obituary with (sample) information filled in so you can read it it for flow.
Jonathan Michael Smith
December 10, 1955 – November 20, 2024It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jonathan Michael Smith, who passed away on November 20, 2024, at the age of 68. Jonathan was surrounded by family at his home in Vancouver, British Columbia, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on December 10, 1955, in Toronto, Ontario, Jonathan grew up with a passion for architecture. After graduating from the University of British Columbia, he dedicated 40 years to designing award-winning community spaces across Canada. His work left a lasting impact, earning recognition for both innovation and sustainability.
Outside of his career, Jonathan enjoyed woodworking, spending weekends in his workshop creating custom furniture while listening to classic rock. He also loved hiking the trails of British Columbia with his family and their dog, Scout. Known for his kindness, creativity, and sense of humor, Jonathan touched the lives of everyone he met.
Jonathan is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Mary Smith (née Carter); his children, Emily Jones (David) and Robert Smith (Sophie); and his three grandchildren, Ella, Max, and Lily. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Margaret Smith, and his brother, William Jr.
A celebration of Jonathan’s life will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Grace Memorial Chapel, located at 123 Main Street, Vancouver, BC. Guests are kindly requested to wear colorful attire to reflect Jonathan’s vibrant spirit.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Vancouver Hospice for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences and memories may be shared at legacy.com.
Using this guide and sample, you can craft a meaningful and personal obituary for your loved one. For more resources on obituary writing, visit FuneralHomesNearby.com.
