An obituary is more than just a death notice—it's a reflection of a person's life. These brief summaries provide an overview of who the deceased was, their accomplishments, and the impact they had on others. Often published in newspapers or online, obituaries offer a final tribute that celebrates a life well-lived.

Purpose of an Obituary

Obituaries serve multiple purposes. They inform the public about the death, provide details about funeral arrangements, and offer a chance to remember the individual’s legacy. For families, writing an obituary can be a therapeutic process, helping them process their grief while honoring their loved one.

Who Writes Obituaries?

Family Members

Family members often take on the responsibility of writing obituaries, especially if they feel a deep connection to the deceased. This allows them to personalize the tribute, incorporating intimate details and anecdotes that only they might know. However, writing an obituary can be emotionally challenging, so not all family members feel equipped to handle the task.

Funeral Directors

Funeral directors frequently assist families in writing obituaries. Given their experience in dealing with death and the grieving process, they can offer guidance on how to structure the obituary and what information to include. They might also help with the submission process, ensuring the obituary is published in the right places.

Newspaper Staff Writers

Some newspapers have staff writers who specialize in obituaries. These professionals are skilled at crafting concise, impactful summaries that capture the essence of the deceased. While they may not have known the individual personally, they are adept at piecing together a compelling narrative based on the information provided by the family.

Freelance Writers

Freelance writers are another option for obituary writing. Families who want a more detailed or personalized obituary might hire a freelance writer to take on the task. Freelancers often bring a creative touch to their work, offering unique perspectives that can make the obituary stand out.

The Process of Writing an Obituary

Gathering Information

The first step in writing an obituary is gathering all the necessary information. This includes basic details like the deceased’s full name, age, date of birth, and date of death. You'll also need to gather information about their family, career, hobbies, and significant life events.

Structuring the Obituary

Once you have all the information, the next step is to structure the obituary. Most obituaries follow a similar format, starting with basic details, followed by a life summary, a list of survivors, and funeral details. However, there’s flexibility to include personal touches, like special memories or tributes.

Writing the First Draft

With the structure in place, it’s time to write the first draft. Start by introducing the deceased, followed by a brief life summary. Then, list their survivors and predeceased relatives. Conclude with funeral details and any special messages. The first draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it’s more about getting the words on paper.

Editing and Finalizing

Editing is a crucial part of the writing process. Once the first draft is complete, review it for clarity, accuracy, and tone. This is also the time to refine the language and ensure the obituary honors the deceased in the way the family desires. After finalizing the text, it’s ready for submission.

Common Elements of an Obituary

Basic Information

An obituary typically begins with the deceased’s basic information: full name, age, date of birth, and date of death. This section may also include details about where the individual lived and their occupation.

Life Summary

The life summary is the heart of the obituary. It highlights the deceased’s achievements, passions, and character. This section might mention their career, education, hobbies, and any other significant milestones.

Survivors and Predeceased

Listing the deceased’s survivors and predeceased relatives is a common element of obituaries. This usually includes immediate family members like spouses, children, and siblings. It’s a way of recognizing the loved ones who were closest to the deceased.

Funeral Details

Providing information about the funeral is another key component. This includes the date, time, and location of the service, as well as any instructions for donations or flowers.

Special Messages or Tributes

Some obituaries include special messages or tributes from the family. This might be a favorite quote, a poem, or a short message expressing their love and sorrow. It’s a personal touch that adds warmth to the obituary.

How to Choose the Right Writer

Consider Their Experience

When selecting someone to write an obituary, consider their experience. A seasoned writer will know how to craft a meaningful tribute that honors the deceased. Whether it’s a family member, a funeral director, or a professional writers like johnson funeral home aynor, their experience will impact the quality of the obituary.

Review Their Writing Style

The writer’s style is another important factor. An obituary should reflect the personality of the deceased, so it’s crucial that the writer’s style aligns with what the family envisions. Reading samples of their work can help determine if they’re the right fit.

Final Thoughts

Writing an obituary is a significant task that requires sensitivity, respect, and skill. Whether it’s done by a family member, a funeral director, or a professional writer, the goal is the same: to create a lasting tribute that honors the life of the deceased. By understanding who writes obituaries and how they are crafted, you can ensure that your loved one’s memory is preserved in a way that truly reflects their life.

FAQs

1. Can anyone write an obituary?
Yes, anyone can write an obituary. It’s often done by family members, but funeral directors, newspaper staff writers, and freelance writers can also take on the task.

2. How long should an obituary be?
Obituaries typically range from 200 to 500 words, depending on the publication’s guidelines and the family’s preferences.

3. What should I include in an obituary?
An obituary should include basic information about the deceased, a life summary, a list of survivors and predeceased relatives, and funeral details. Special messages or tributes can also be added.

4. How much does it cost to have an obituary written?
The cost can vary widely depending on who writes it and where it’s published. Some newspapers charge by the word, while others have flat rates. Freelance writers may also charge a fee for their services.

5. Can I write my own obituary?
Yes, some people choose to write their own obituaries as a way to control how their life is remembered. This can also relieve the burden on family members during a difficult time.