When you are going through the planning process for you or loved one’s funeral, you may be asked to start thinking of writing an obituary. While it may seem to be a daunting task, simplicity is key. Here are some tips to help you write an obituary draft:
- Announcement of Passing
Many obituaries begin with the announcement of passing. This typically includes the date and where the death took place. This is usually just one sentence or two, but you can also add your loved one’s date and place of birth in this space to fill it up a bit more as well.
- Provide Biological Information
State when and where they were born, where they grew up/graduated from high school, and where they attended college or began their career. This is also where you would include any military service and/or accolades they received. Remember, this is the body of the obituary that talks about them and their accomplishments in life, so fill it with the details you know they were most proud of. Make it personal about their life.
- List Family Members
This is where you list family members who have previously passed away, and those who will be carrying their memory. Don’t forget to include chosen family and friends. Your funeral director will help in getting the list in order.
- Funeral Information
This is typically where the visitation, memorial service, celebration of life, and/or funeral service details will go in the obituary. While the exact details are worked out by your funeral director, you can fill in what you may know at this time. If you’re discussing pre-planning options with your funeral director, this will help determine what services will be provided after your passing.
- Review
Once you’ve finished with your obituary draft, take a moment to review it for mistakes or misspellings. Also allow a trusted friend or family member to look it over as well. They may recall things that you may have forgotten to add to the obituary.
Now that you or your loved one’s obituary is finished, send it to your funeral director so that they can make the proper edits needed and submit it to the appropriate publications. If you are writing your own obituary, keep it in a safe place where your family knows, or bring it to your funeral director during any pre-planning meetings so that your obituary is ready and available when it is needed.
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