How Do I Write an Obituary?

Writing an obituary is a significant task that allows you to honor a loved one’s life and legacy. It serves as a public notice of their passing and a celebration of their unique journey. Crafting an obituary can feel overwhelming, especially during a time of grief, but it doesn’t have to be. With some preparation and guidance, you can write a meaningful and heartfelt tribute that reflects the life and personality of your loved one.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to write an obituary, offering tips and ideas to help you create a fitting tribute. Whether you’re writing for a loved one or preparing for your own obituary, knowing what information to include and how to structure it will make the process smoother. For families in Houston, Claire Brothers Funeral Home is here to offer support and guidance throughout every step of the funeral process.

What Is an Obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of someone’s death, typically published in a newspaper, online, or as part of the funeral program. It provides key details about the deceased, such as their name, date of birth, and passing, and often includes a brief account of their life, family, and accomplishments.

An obituary also serves as an invitation to the funeral service, providing information on how people can pay their respects. Understanding how to write an obituary ensures that your tribute honors the memory of your loved one while providing necessary details.

Essential Elements to Include in an Obituary

1. Announcement of Death

The first part of the obituary is the formal announcement of death. This section typically includes:

• Full legal name of the deceased (including nicknames, if applicable)
• Age at the time of death
• Date and place of death
• Cause of death (optional)

The tone of this section should be respectful and straightforward, acknowledging the passing with sensitivity. For example:

“John William Doe, 78, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, at his home in Houston, Texas, after a courageous battle with cancer.”

2. Biographical Information

This section is the heart of the obituary, highlighting the key moments and milestones in the person’s life. Focus on what made them unique, while keeping the details concise and relevant. Consider including:

• Date and place of birth
• Education and career
• Major accomplishments or awards
• Hobbies, interests, and passions
• Religious or community involvement

Personalizing this section allows you to showcase your loved one’s character. Be thoughtful about what details would matter most to those who knew them well. For example:

“John was born on August 22, 1946, in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in civil engineering and spent over 40 years working in public infrastructure development. John was an avid reader, a lifelong fan of the Houston Astros, and a dedicated volunteer at his local food bank.”

3. Family Information

The family section names the loved ones left behind, as well as those who preceded the deceased in death. Start with close relatives (spouse, children, grandchildren) and then mention extended family as appropriate. Typically, this section follows the format:

• Preceded in death by: list relatives who have passed
• Survived by: list living relatives, typically starting with the spouse and children

For example:

“John is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary Doe; their two children, Sarah Johnson (Tom) and David Doe (Lily); and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ann Doe.”

4. Funeral or Memorial Service Details

An obituary also serves as an invitation to the funeral or memorial service. Include the following details:

• Date, time, and location of the service
• Any special instructions (such as dress code or requests for charitable donations)
• Whether the service is private or open to the public

For instance:

“A celebration of John’s life will be held on September 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Claire Brothers Funeral Home in Houston, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Houston Food Bank in his memory.”

Tips for Writing a Meaningful Obituary

1. Keep It Personal and Genuine

While writing an obituary, focus on the qualities that made the person special. Don’t be afraid to mention their quirks, passions, or unique characteristics. These personal touches make the obituary more meaningful to those who read it.

2. Find the Right Tone

Decide whether the tone should be formal or more casual, depending on the personality of your loved one and the preferences of the family. Some families prefer a traditional and formal tone, while others may choose to include lighthearted anecdotes or fond memories.

3. Ask for Help

Writing an obituary can be emotionally challenging, so it’s okay to ask family members or close friends for help. They can offer memories, facts, or phrases that will enrich the obituary. Collaborating on the writing process also ensures that different perspectives are included.

4. Edit and Review

Once you’ve written a draft, take time to review and edit the obituary. Ensure that all names, dates, and details are accurate. Reading it aloud can help identify any awkward phrasing or mistakes. Also, check that you’ve followed the word limit if you plan to publish in a newspaper.

Structuring the Obituary

The following outline can guide you through writing an obituary:

1. Introduction:

• Full name, age, place of death, date of death, and brief statement about the passing.

2. Biography:

• Date and place of birth
• Education and career
• Significant achievements and hobbies
• Community or religious involvement

3. Family Information:

• List of close relatives who have passed
• List of surviving family members

4. Funeral or Memorial Service Information:

• Date, time, and location of service
• Public or private details
• Special instructions for attendees

5. Conclusion:

• Close with a brief thank-you or final note, especially if you’re asking for donations in lieu of flowers or want to express gratitude to caregivers.

Why Work With Claire Brothers Funeral Home in Houston

Writing an obituary is an important responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. Funeral homes like Claire Brothers Funeral Home in Houston offer personalized assistance to families during this emotional time. Our experienced staff can guide you through the process, ensuring that your tribute reflects the life and spirit of your loved one.

1. Compassionate Support

Our caring team understands the emotional weight of writing an obituary. We’ll work with you to ensure that all important details are included and that your loved one’s memory is honored with respect.

2. Professional Guidance

We help simplify the process by providing templates and suggestions, allowing you to create an obituary that is meaningful and well-structured. Whether you need help with writing, editing, or submitting the obituary to local publications, our team is here for you.

3. Tailored Services

At Claire Brothers Funeral Home, we offer a range of services to accommodate every family’s needs, from traditional funerals to cremation services. We understand how important it is to celebrate a life well-lived, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

A Personal Touch for Your Obituary Writing Needs

At Claire Brothers Funeral Home, we understand that writing an obituary is one of the many important tasks after losing a loved one. We are here to support you in creating a meaningful tribute that celebrates their life and legacy. Contact us today to learn more about our funeral planning services in Houston and how we can assist you during this difficult time.