How to Write an Obituary

Help Writing an Obituary

According to Obituary Guide, "An obituary is many things in one: a notice of a death, a story of a life, a record of the extended family, information about a funeral service, a thank you to those who helped out, a request for memorial donations.The basic information must be covered, accurately and completely. As well, an obituary can be a compelling story of a life."

They offer the following tips (summarized):

*Strike a balance between life and death, telling how the person died, but also how the person lived.
*Focus on the deceased (rather than mainly the family and friends left behind).
*Show personal characteristics by using examples of the person's actions and spirit, rather than listing facts.
*Find three words that sum up the life lived. This will help focus and summarize.
*Consider writing several versions (for various uses).
*Revise and edit. Proofread and make sure everything is correct.

Here are some terms that may be helpful in describing various people in an obituary:

Artistic, Loving, Caring, Thoughtful, Outgoing, Giving, Spiritual, A Good Friend, Intelligent, Clever, Witty, Firm but Fair, Selfless, Generous, Shy, Wise, Considerate, Understanding, Kind, Neighborly, Helpful, Hard-Working, Dedicated, Talented, Lover of (Animals, a Charity, a Church), Godly, Faithful, Funny, Light-hearted, A Good Mother (Father, etc), Fun-loving, Youthful, A Student of Life, Sweet, Charming, Loyal, Involved, Informed, Popular, Well-liked, Athletic, Nature-loving, Beautiful, Handsome, Lovely, Darling, Enthusiastic, Energetic, Emotional, Tough, Survivor, Smart...

Spend some time talking about the person about whom you want to write. Soon words, phrases, and memories will come to you. I hope this list will get you started.

Janienne Jennrich