Writing an obituary for a lost loved one can be a difficult and sensitive process to navigate. Although this task can be hard, it gives you the opportunity to celebrate and honor their life. It notifies the community of a great loss and communicates burial and memorial information, and includes some information about the deceased’s life and accomplishments. You can write it any way you like, and it can be tricky to choose a tone and what to include. Below are some traditional sections typically added to an obituary to aid you in this process. 

5 Obituary Sections to Consider

1. Announcement of Death

The introduction includes facts about the deceased, like their name, city they lived in, age, and possibly a nickname. It also includes information about the death, although you may opt to leave the details out. This is a chance to bring awareness to a specific disease, and an area to draw attention to the loss of the individual. The language can be difficult to navigate. Instead of saying they have died, many instead say, “they have moved on.”

2. Limited Biography

This section includes the highlights of their life. Achievements, military honors, occupation, or being a great parent is written here. If you have the opportunity, talk to friends and other family members before writing this section to get an idea of some of their favorite things. Their volunteering efforts or hobbies are great areas to cover.

3. Immediate Family

It can be difficult for very large families, but it is best to keep the list as small as possible. Include immediate family members who are still alive. The spouse, children, parents, and siblings are usually included, but it is okay to add grandchildren or great-grandchildren as well. 

4. Service Information

Include the location of the funeral home and memorial service, and note if they are in different locations. Publish the dates and times of each event, and post if there are any requests. You can add attire requirements, and what people can bring.

5. Include a Photo

A photo might cost a little more, but it shows the community who the deceased was. It gives a chance for people to see the face behind the name. Try to use a recent photo, and preferably one that shows them in their prime state. 

The obituary and funeral planning process is an extremely difficult time. If you need guidance, contact Robert W. Waid Funeral Home in Meadville, PA. For more than 100 years, this family-owned funeral home has helped the grieving with Social Security, life insurance benefits, and any other paperwork needed after the loss of a loved one. They offer pre-arrangement aid and provide assistance with all aspects of funeral and cremation services. Visit them online to review their services, or call (814) 724-1021 to talk to a representative.