An obituary offers a way for loved ones to pay tribute to someone special who has passed away, share the news of their death, and disclose details about the memorial service. But because these announcements are only written when loved ones are grieving, writing an obituary can be a challenging process. Below are a few tips to help you write a fitting tribute.

3 Tips for Writing a Touching Obituary

1. Have a Message

Your average obituary includes a general biography of the deceased and information about where the memorial service will be held. But the person you're writing about was special and unique, so their obituary should be too. Don't be afraid to create a distinct impression about the deceased. If they were naturally funny, include the importance of laughter and how comedy and positivity helped your loved one. If they were known for being opinionated and outspoken, speak to the significance of standing up for your convictions.

2. Tell a Story

Use the obituary as an opportunity to share some fond memories with others. This makes the announcement more engaging and gives readers an idea of who the deceased was, and the experiences they had. You will capture the spirit of your loved one and readers may learn stories about them they never knew.

3. Challenge the Format of the Standard Obituary

Open the newspaper to the obituaries, and you will see numerous announcements following a formulaic format. While this is an acceptable writing strategy, it is by no means a requirement. Try telling the story of your loved one's life in a nonlinear fashion. For instance, start with their passing and move backward in time. Or, group their major life events by themes or ideas. An example might be to show how nature was important to them by highlighting their love of fishing, their outdoor wedding, and their plans have their ashes spread around a favorite tree at their memorial service.

To make an obituary memorable, never hesitate to use your imagination. When planning a memorial service, trust the professionals at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel. They provide the Boone County, MO, area with funerals, cremations, and burial services and are committed to helping families create meaningful tributes to departed loved ones. To speak with a funeral planning professional, call (573) 441-2932 or visit their website today.