Writing an obituary for a loved one is never easy, but it is a powerful way to honour their life, share their story, and help others celebrate their memory. Whether you’re planning a funeral or commemorating a family member or friend, a well-written obituary is informative and deeply personal.
At F.W. Spilsbury, we’ll walk you through how to write a meaningful obituary that respectfully reflects the life and legacy of your loved one.
What Is an Obituary?
An obituary is a public notice of death that often appears in local newspapers or funeral home websites. It announces the passing, provides key details about the deceased’s life, and informs the community of any funeral or memorial arrangements.
More than just a formal announcement, a great obituary paints a picture of who the person was, including their personality, passions, achievements, and relationships.
How to Write a Meaningful Obituary
Here’s a helpful step-by-step structure to guide your writing:
1. Start With Basic Details
Include the full name of the deceased (and any nicknames), age, place of residence, and the date of passing. You can also note where they were born or significant places they lived.
Example:
Jane Elizabeth Parker, known lovingly as “Nana Jane,” passed away peacefully at home in Malvern on 4th June 2025, aged 82.
2. Share Their Story
Add warmth and personality. Describe their background: their education, career, family life, hobbies, or charitable work. What made them unique? Did they have a signature laugh, a catchphrase, or a famous lemon drizzle cake?
Keep it conversational, yet respectful.
3. Mention Family and Loved Ones
List close family members, those who have passed and those surviving. Typically, you include spouses, children, siblings, and grandchildren.
4. Include Funeral or Memorial Details
Inform readers of funeral service times, locations, and any specific requests (e.g., donations to charity instead of flowers, dress code, livestream details).
5. Add a Closing Thought
End with a final tribute, quote, or sentiment that reflects the person’s spirit.
Obituary Writing Tips
- Keep it clear and concise – Aim for 150–300 words.
- Use your own voice – It’s okay to sound like you. Personal is powerful.
- Check spellings and dates – Especially names, locations, and service times.
- Ask others to review – Family or friends can help with details or input.
Why It Matters
A well-written obituary is not just for those who knew the person, it can also help others understand who they were. It may even reconnect distant friends or family members who come across the tribute online or in the newspaper.
Need Help Writing an Obituary?
At F.W. Spilsbury, we understand that finding the right words can be overwhelming during a time of loss. That’s why we offer support in writing thoughtful, dignified obituaries tailored to your loved one’s life.
Get in touch with our caring team today for guidance, or explore our resources to help you through every step of funeral planning.
F.W. Spilsbury – Honouring Lives with Care and Individuality.