How to Write an Obituary in Standard American English
Writing an obituary is a difficult task, but it is also an important one. Obituaries provide a way to honor the deceased and to share their life story with others. They can also be a source of comfort for the bereaved.
If you have been asked to write an obituary, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, obituaries should be written in a clear and concise style. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be difficult for readers to understand. Second, obituaries should be accurate and factual. Verify all of the information that you include in the obituary, including the deceased’s name, date of birth, date of death, and survivors. Third, obituaries should be respectful of the deceased and their family. Avoid using sensational or inflammatory language.
Here is a step-by-step guide to writing an obituary:
- Gather information. The first step in writing an obituary is to gather information about the deceased. This information can be obtained from the family, friends, or colleagues of the deceased. You may also want to consult public records, such as birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses.
- Write a draft. Once you have gathered all of the necessary information, you can begin writing a draft of the obituary. Start by writing a brief introduction that includes the deceased’s name, date of birth, and date of death. Then, provide a summary of the deceased’s life, including their education, career, and family. Finally, conclude the obituary with a brief statement about the deceased’s legacy.
- Revise and edit. Once you have written a draft of the obituary, take some time to revise and edit it. Make sure that the obituary is accurate, complete, and well-written. You may also want to get feedback from family or friends before submitting the obituary to a newspaper or funeral home.
Here are some additional tips for writing an obituary:
- Use a simple and direct style. Obituaries should be easy to read and understand. Avoid using complex sentences or technical jargon.
- Be specific. Provide as much detail as possible about the deceased’s life. This includes information about their education, career, family, and hobbies.
- Be respectful. Obituaries should be respectful of the deceased and their family. Avoid using sensational or inflammatory language.
- Include a photo. A photo of the deceased can help to personalize the obituary and make it more memorable.
FAQ
What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?
An obituary is a more detailed account of a person’s life that is typically published in a newspaper or online. A death notice is a shorter announcement of a person’s death that is typically published in a newspaper or online.
How long should an obituary be?
Obituaries can vary in length, but they are typically between 100 and 500 words.
What information should I include in an obituary?
Obituaries typically include the deceased’s name, date of birth, date of death, and survivors. They may also include information about the deceased’s education, career, family, and hobbies.
How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or funeral home?
Obituaries can be submitted to newspapers or funeral homes by mail, email, or fax. You may also be able to submit an obituary online.
What is the cost of publishing an obituary?
The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or funeral home. Typically, obituaries cost between $100 and $500.
Can I write an obituary myself?
Yes, you can write an obituary yourself. However, you may want to get feedback from family or friends before submitting the obituary to a newspaper or funeral home.
