When you’re experiencing grief, writing an obituary might feel like a challenging task, especially amid other funeral planning duties. Use the following tips to help you express your loved one’s life and share details about the funeral.

4 Steps for Writing an Obituary

1. Announce the Passing

Instead of fretting over the perfect first line, start with a simple sentence relaying basic information about your loved one—their full name, age, and the day of their passing. This way, those reading the obituary in the newspaper or online will be able to identify your loved one immediately. Starting with an announcement will also answer questions that others might have about the circumstances of your loved one's passing.

2. Include Personal Details

Think of favorite memories and personal details about your loved one to make the obituary into a beautiful tribute. This is your chance to share what your loved one did—their work and accomplishments—and the qualities you liked most about them. You might be tempted to include a chronology of their life, but depending on how much space you have, it is wisest to focus on significant life events. Sharing personal details is a lovely way to bring mourners together over fond memories.

3. Add Information About the Service

A straightforward and helpful way to end the obituary is with the specifics of the funeral. Include the date, time, and location of the service and list an address where people cans send flowers, cards, and other gifts. Also, include the date, time, and location for visitations.

4. Check for Errors

Grief can make you unfocused, so check the obituary multiple times for errors. Consider sharing it with a friend who can read and proof the text through an unemotional lens. That way, no matter the medium, the obituary can stand as an accurate and lasting testament to your loved one’s life.

Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH, offers their compassionate services to make the grief process a little easier. They provide comprehensive funeral planning services, from helping loved ones decide on flowers to conducting a service that celebrates the life of the departed. They also offer preplanning services for those who want to design a funeral that reflects them and won't be a financial burden on their loved ones. For attentive and thoughtful support, call (513) 385-0511. Visit their website for more information about preplanning.