An obituary is one of the most important pieces of writing you'll ever do — a public record of a life and a gift to everyone who loved the person you're writing about. Here's how to write one well.
What to Include
- Full name, age, and date/place of death
- Birthdate and birthplace
- Survivors (spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings)
- A brief biographical overview: career, passions, defining qualities
- Significant life milestones
- Memorial service information
- Where to send flowers or donations
How to Write It (The Actual Writing)
Start with a sentence that captures something essential about the person — not just their job title. Then move through their life chronologically, weaving in specific details and anecdotes rather than generic adjectives. "She made everyone she met feel seen and unhurried" is more memorable than "she was kind."
How Long Should It Be?
Newspaper obituaries run 150–300 words. Online obituaries have no limit and can be significantly longer. If you're publishing in print, be aware of per-word charges.
Where to Publish
- Your local newspaper's website
- Legacy.com (national aggregator)
- The funeral home's website
- The online memorial page (link out from everywhere else)
- Facebook and social media
When Writer's Block Hits
If you're struggling, interview family members with specific questions: What did they love to do on a Saturday morning? What was their signature phrase? What would they want people to remember about them? The answers will write the obituary for you.
