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In addition to planning funeral services, writing an obituary is a task many family members take on after a loved one passes. However, it can be difficult to know where to start or what to include. To write a fitting tribute that is informative and sincere, learn about some common mistakes people make when writing obituaries below. 

4 Common Mistakes of Obituary-Writing

1. Avoid Writing a Generic Piece

It’s crucial to commemorate your loved one in a positive and uplifting light. Instead of including phrases that could apply to others, such as “They enjoyed walking on the beach,” try thinking of your favorite memories of your loved one to draw inspiration for how to describe them.

Did they have unique hobbies or passions? How would they like to be remembered? Make sure to write a personal and meaningful obituary that is specific to your loved one, such as by including their veteran status.

2. Don’t Over-Describe the Service

funeral servicesProviding essential information about the funeral or memorial service is one of the main functions of an obituary. However, describing the funeral service itself is not the point of an obituary.

Simply provide the date, time, place, and any relevant information about preferences concerning donations or flowers. Any more details on the service will distract from writing about the life of your loved one. 

3. Focus Solely On Their Passing

Obituaries don’t simply announce an individual’s death — they summarize and celebrate their life. Instead of focusing solely on sharing details of their passing, discuss what made your loved one’s life amazing, such as their education, travels, family, hobbies, and achievements. This will create a clear picture of the individual whose memory is being honored. 

4. Include Contact Information

Never print an obituary before all the information about the memorial or funeral service is finalized. In addition to the date, time, and location, providing a contact number for outstanding questions about the service is a smart way to let people reach out for more information if they need it.

If you’re not comfortable with providing personal contact information, designating a page on social media is another simple way to keep everyone informed. Additionally, you can list the funeral home’s number at the end so family and friends can call for more information. 


You and your loved ones deserve to have a trusted and caring funeral planning service at your side. Abriola Parkview Funeral Home has provided supportive and comprehensive funeral services for more than a century to residents of Trumbull, CT. Our memorial business is dedicated to making the funeral planning process simple for families. We offer helpful services ranging from ceremonies and burials to writing eulogies and finding local florists. To speak to one of our representatives about honoring a loved one, call (203) 373-1013 or visit our website to learn more about our services. 

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