Writing an Obituary

Template for writing an obituary.

Writing an obituary is a difficult and emotional task. Gather information from family and friends of the deceased about their childhood, education, career, and hobbies and interests. Speak to the funeral home to receive any important information on the date, time, and location of any funeral service, or other funeral-related events. Using the template will help make the process easier and will ensure you write a properly structured obituary.

Instructions: Replace all items in CAPITALS below with the appropriate information.

[GIVEN NAME] [MIDDLE NAME (AND NICKNAME)]

[SURNAME], [AGE], of [CITY], [STATE], passed away on [DATE OF DEATH] in [LOCATION OF DEATH].

[NAME] was born in [LOCATION OF BIRTH] to [PARENT’S NAMES] on [DATE OF BIRTH]. He/she went to high school at [SCHOOL NAME] and graduated in [YEAR]. He/she went on to earn a degree/certificate in [DEGREE TYPE] from [SCHOOL NAME]. He/she worked as a [JOB TYPE] for [COMPANY] for [NUMBER OF YEARS]. He/she enjoyed [ACTIVITIES/HOBBIES]. He/she received [AWARDS/HONORS] and was involved in [CHARITIES/ORGANIZATIONS].

[NAME] is survived by his/her [RELATION], [NAME] of [CITY]. (List all survivors: spouse children, siblings, parents, grandchildren, nieces and nephews). He/she is preceded in death by his/her [RELATION], [NAME]. (List predeceased: spouse, parents, children and siblings.)

Funeral service will be held at [LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME] with Rabbi [NAME] of [SYNAGOGUE] officiating. Burial will follow at [CEMETERY NAME], [CEMETERY LOCATION]. Shiva will be held at [LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME]. [NAME OF FUNERAL HOME] will be handling the funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to [ORGANIZATION NAME], [MAILING ADDRESS]. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to [ORGANIZATION/NAME].

[FINAL WORDS].

Remember most newspapers charge by the word, this template is good for getting all the information necessary in as few words possible. However, this template can be changed based on what you feel is necessary.