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Obituaries announce the death of a friend or family member as well as details about their life and funeral services. If you’re writing an obituary for a deceased loved one, you may feel overwhelmed with how to begin. Here is a guide to help you get started.

How to Put Together an Obituary

Family Ties

Obituaries should include a list of their close relatives. This should include parents, a spouse, children, including adopted children, grandchildren, and another extended family like sons- and daughters-in-law. Collect this list of loved ones. You will state that the deceased is “survived by” these loved ones.

Necessary Details

funeralSince it is an official death announcement, the deceased’s full name (including maiden name), age, and town should be listed along with the time and location of their death. Some people choose to include cause of death, but that is a personal decision.

Personal Stories

Gather personal details that will give a snapshot of who the deceased was in life. Contact others close to the person who can share stories about where they grew up, their career and professional life, and any hobbies or special organizations they were part of. Try to gather specifics that will paint a clear picture of who they were.

You may choose to take on a co-writer, which can help you organize your thoughts and determine the best representation of your loved one. For example, if the deceased is a parent, having your living parent help you write it will make it easier. During this difficult time, the support will be helpful, and you will have two different perspectives of the lost loved one.

Service Information

Besides a brief look at the person’s life, obituaries must provide other important information. After telling their story, make sure to list funeral details such as date, time, and location of viewings as well as services at religious centers. Burial services can be included as part of the funeral service itinerary. To wrap it up, list special requests or instructions such as where to send flowers or a donation to charity.  

Review It

Before publishing, have the obituary looked over by someone else. They can help you to make note of any errors. Be sure to contact the newspapers or other publications, online and in print, so you know their posting deadlines and photo size requirements.

 

In New Haven County, CT, Porto Funeral Homes has been the compassionate funeral home for more than 75 years. Family-owned, their professional staff can assist with every detail of funeral services for your loved ones as well as cremation and burial services to suit your needs. In addition, they can help with details such as permits, benefits, wills, and death certificates. If you are interested in funeral pre-planning, their offerings ensure your arrangements are prepared to your preferences. Call their West Haven, CT, location at (203) 934-5000 or their East Haven, CT, location at (203) 467-3000. For helpful facts, visit their website.

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