Print Obituary

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. When it comes time to honor their life in a printed obituary, it’s essential to craft a heartfelt tribute that celebrates their memory. Writing an obituary for print can be a daunting task, but it’s a meaningful way to share their story with others. Here’s a simple guide with tips to help you through this process.

Gather Information

Start by collecting essential details about the deceased person. This includes their full name, date of birth, date of passing, place of residence, and details about their family members. Additionally, gather information about their life, accomplishments, hobbies, and any significant milestones.

 Decide on Key Points

Consider the key points you want to highlight in the obituary. Focus on the person’s life story, their passions, achievements, and the impact they had on others. Highlighting their personality traits or memorable anecdotes can make the tribute more personal and touching.

 Structure of the Obituary

• Introduction: Begin with the deceased’s full name, date of birth and date of passing. Mention the city or town where they lived.
• Life Summary: Provide a brief overview of the person’s life, including their education, career, and significant life events.
• Family Details: Include information about surviving family members, such as spouses, children, siblings, and grandchildren.
• Achievements and Passions: Highlight the person’s accomplishments, hobbies, interests, and any contributions they made to their community or society.
• Service Information: If applicable, include details about the funeral or memorial service, such as the date, time, and location.

 Writing the Obituary

• Use a warm and respectful tone throughout the obituary.
• Keep sentences concise and easy to understand.
• Include specific details that capture the essence of the person’s life.
• Avoid using overly formal language; instead, write in a way that reflects the person’s personality.

 Review and Edit

After drafting the obituary, take time to review and edit it. Check for any factual errors, ensure the information is accurate, and verify the spelling of names and places.

 Seeking Assistance

If you find it challenging to write the obituary alone, consider asking other family members or close friends to contribute their memories and insights. Collaborating can help create a comprehensive and heartfelt tribute.

Submission to the Newspaper

Contact the local newspaper or publication where you wish to print the obituary. Inquire about their guidelines, deadlines, and any specific formatting requirements. Some newspapers may have word limits or specific styles to follow.