In the wake of losing a loved one, planning a funeral can be an overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to writing an obituary. Many people often find themselves at a loss for words when attempting to encapsulate the life and memories of a missing friend or family member. Start with the most important details to ensure you’ve created the loving tribute your loved one deserves.

The following information is commonly included in an obituary and can serve as a useful guide to writing a comprehensive obituary.

1. Basic Biographical Information

Obituaries are public records that notify the community when an individual has passed on. Include your loved one’s full name, other names they might have gone by, date and place of birth, and where they grew up.

2. Education & Employment Details

Share your family member's educational history, as well as their most recent position and place of employment. These accomplishments often form an important part of our identity, and the details may help old classmates and colleagues find the obituary.

3. Military Service

If your family member served in any branch of the armed forces, it's customary to list that information in the obituary as well. If it seems appropriate, you may list the dates of service as well as their rank when discharged.

4. Organization Memberships

List any volunteer activity, membership in fraternal orders, and special clubs, as well as any civic positions they may have held. You may also want to include the name and location of your family member's place of worship.

5. Survivors’ Names

List any survivors including children, siblings, spouse, and grandchildren, if applicable. If any close relatives predeceased your loved one, they should also be named in the obituary.

6. Funeral Details

An obituary also serves as a funeral notification for acquaintances who may not have been contacted directly. If the funeral services are going to be public, make sure you include the location, date, and time for both the burial and the service.

7. Whether Monetary Contributions Are Preferred

If you would prefer financial assistance rather than flowers, include a statement like “contributions suggested to the family” or similar language. If your loved one gave to charitable causes, consider requesting that memorial donations be made in their name.

Writing an obituary can be an important part of the grieving process. Recording your loved one’s biographical details can encourage you and your family to share memories of the time you had together.

For over a century, the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home has been providing caring, attentive service to grieving family members throughout the Meadville, PA, area. Their caring staff is available 24 hours a day to help with every aspect of planning a funeral service, from selecting a location to writing the obituary. Visit their website to learn more about their tradition of caring for the community or call (814) 724-1021 to make an appointment.