For example, you may write, “On the morning of June 10, 2019, John Smith of Atlanta died at the age of 80. ”
For example, you may write, “John was born to Tom and Jill Smith in 1950. He received his bachelor’s degree in 1976 and managed John’s Restaurant in Atlanta for 22 years. In July 1980, he married Jane Doe, and together raised two children, Anna and Benjamin. ” Create a list of major points in your loved one’s life on a separate sheet of paper so you have options to choose from. Avoid listing their mother’s maiden name or your loved one’s birthdate in the biography since identity thieves could steal the information and commit fraud. [2] X Research source
For example, you may say, “John was an avid car collector in spare time. When he wasn’t working at his restaurant, he would restore classic cars and show them at car shows. He was known for his good sense of humor and his contagious laughter among his friends. ” You don’t need to include this section if you don’t have the space for it in your obituary.
For example, you may write, “John is preceded in death by his father, Tom, and his mother, Jill. He is survived by his wife, Jane, his 2 children, Anna and Benjamin, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. ”
For example, you could write, “A public memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on June 13th, 2019 at the Church of Christ. ” You do not have to provide any information if there is not a public service.
If you wrote your paper on a computer, print it out so you can easily mark up the page with what you need to change.
Talk to multiple people that were close to your loved one to see if they have any stories or details they think should be included.
Obituaries don’t need to look exactly the same, but they should contain all the important information necessary.
Some newspapers charge an additional fee to publish pictures. Check with the paper’s obituary requirements to see.
Even if you don’t make the print deadline, the obituary will still be published on the newspaper’s website.
