Simple Obituary Examples

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience, and writing an obituary can be a daunting task during this difficult time. An obituary template serves as a way to honor the life of the deceased, share their story, and inform the community about their passing. While it’s a deeply personal piece, many find it helpful to see simple obituary examples to guide them in creating their own. 

What is an Obituary?

An obituary is a notice of a person’s death, typically including a brief biography of the deceased and information about the upcoming funeral or memorial service. It is often published in newspapers, online, or in funeral program booklets to inform the community about the death and to provide details about the funeral arrangements.

How to Write an Obituary

Writing an obituary can be a cathartic process, allowing you to reflect on the life of the deceased and share their legacy with others. Here are some tips for writing an obituary:

Gather Information: Collect basic information such as the full name of the deceased, age, date of birth, date of death, and place of residence.

Include Personal Details: Share a brief biography of the deceased, including their achievements, hobbies, interests, and any other significant details about their life.

Announce the Death: Begin the obituary by announcing the death of the individual, including the date and place of death.

Include Family Information: Mention the names of surviving family members, including spouse, children, grandchildren, and siblings.

Funeral Details: Provide information about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location.

Closing: End the obituary with a closing statement or a meaningful quote.

Simple Obituary Examples

Example 1:

John Doe, age 78, of Anytown, USA, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2024. He was born on January 5, 1946, in Anytown, to the late James and Mary Doe. John was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Jane; his children, Sarah (Tom) and Michael (Lisa); and his grandchildren, Emily, Jack, and Ava. John was a dedicated teacher who spent over 40 years inspiring students in the local community. He was passionate about music, gardening, and spending time with his family.

A funeral service will be held at Anytown Church on April 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Anytown School Music Program in John’s memory.

Example 2:

Mary Smith, age 65, of Somewhereville, passed away on March 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 10, 1958, in Somewhereville, to the late William and Elizabeth Jones. Mary was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who would be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, David; her children, James (Rachel) and Jennifer (Mark); and her grandchildren, Olivia, Ethan, and Sophia. Mary was a talented artist who enjoyed painting landscapes and portraits. She was also an avid reader and a passionate volunteer in her community.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at Somewhereville Community Center on March 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Somewhereville Public Library in Mary’s honor.