Writing an obituary is an integral part of arranging funeral services for a loved one. It can be challenging to summarize a person’s life and accomplishments in just a few paragraphs, but these tips can help you organize the writing process to include all the valuable aspects of your loved one’s life.

5 Steps to Writing an Obituary

1. Announce the Death

All obituaries should start with the facts surrounding your loved one’s passing: name, age, where they lived, and where and when they passed on. It’s your choice whether to mention the reason. Some families prefer to keep it private, while others choose to announce it.

2. Provide a Background

Next, highlight the most notable happenings and events in your loved one’s life. You can list these occurrences in the order they occurred or in order of relevance. Ask friends and family for help when deciding which events to mention. Focus on those happenings that you know were meaningful to the person.

3. Mention Family

When listing family, talk about immediate members first, then move to distant relatives. Don’t feel the need to mention every single person, especially if your loved one was part of a large family. Instead, mention “beloved nieces and nephews” or “cherished grandchildren,” which ensures everyone is included.

4. List Service Times

Include the date, time, and location of the viewing, funeral service, and burial. If you’re unsure of the specific times or places, consult with the funeral director, who can provide you with the correct information.

5. Include Special Messages

Perhaps your loved one was a supporter of a specific charity or a lifelong member of a local church. In this case, you may request that mourners make donations on behalf of the deceased instead of buying flowers. If there is a book or poem that was dear to your loved one, consider including a small passage. You can also include a photo along with the text.

If you need assistance making decisions about a funeral service, Frederick Funeral Home will lend their support. This family-owned and -operated funeral home has served families in Colerain Township, OH, since 1932. They offer traditional services, cremation, funeral preplanning, and specialized services customized to the needs of the individual. If you’d like to learn more about your options, call (513) 522-3700. Learn more about their services online.