Writing an obituary is one of the most meaningful ways to honor and celebrate the life of a loved one. It serves as a tribute, a record of their legacy, and a way to share their story with the community. While it can be an emotional task, crafting an obituary offers a chance to reflect on their life and the impact they had on those around them.

At Brandon Funerals, we understand how difficult it can be to find the right words during such a challenging time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of writing an obituary that truly reflects your loved one’s life, values, and contributions.

What is an Obituary?

An obituary is a written notice of someone’s death that often includes details about their life, achievements, family, and funeral arrangements. It serves as a public announcement and can be published in newspapers, online platforms, or funeral home websites. An obituary typically contains essential information about the deceased, but it can also include a personal touch, sharing the spirit of who they were.

Key Elements to Include in an Obituary

While each obituary is unique, there are some basic elements that should be included to ensure that the obituary is informative and respectful. Here’s a breakdown of the key information to consider:

1. Full Name and Personal Information

Start by including the full name of the deceased, along with any important details such as their nickname (if they were widely known by one), age, and location. You may also wish to mention the date of birth and date of passing. For example:

• “John Alexander Smith, 72, of Valrico, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025…”

2. Family Information

Including the names of the surviving family members helps to acknowledge the bonds that your loved one shared with their loved ones. This section should mention immediate family members such as parents, spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings. Don’t forget to also mention those who predeceased the person, such as a spouse or children, if applicable. For example:

• “He is survived by his wife, Margaret; children, Sarah (David) and Thomas (Emily); and his beloved grandchildren, Grace and Luke…”

3. Life Achievements and Career

This section of the obituary is where you can share the highlights of your loved one’s life, from their career achievements to their educational background, hobbies, and passions. If the deceased had any notable accomplishments or made a significant impact on their community, this is the place to mention it. For example:

• “John was a dedicated teacher for over 30 years, inspiring countless students with his passion for history. He was a member of the Valrico Historical Society and volunteered at the local library…”

4. Special Interests and Hobbies

Another important aspect of an obituary is showcasing the deceased’s personality. This is where you can mention their hobbies, interests, and the things that brought them joy. Whether they were passionate about sports, gardening, reading, or traveling, including these details brings your loved one to life in a way that is meaningful to family and friends. For example:

• “John was an avid fisherman and spent many weekends on the lake with his family. He also loved to read mystery novels and was a lifelong fan of classic rock music.”

5. Funeral or Memorial Service Information

This section informs friends and family about the details of the funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life. It should include the time, date, and location of the service, along with any other pertinent details, such as whether the family requests donations in lieu of flowers. For example:

• “A memorial service will be held at Brandon Funerals on March 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Valrico Community Fund in John’s honor.”

6. A Closing Thought or Quote

To bring a sense of closure to the obituary, you can include a quote, poem, or special message that reflects your loved one’s life, beliefs, or values. This can be something they often said, a verse from their favorite song, or a poem that resonates with their spirit. For example:

• “’To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.’ — Thomas Campbell.”

Tips for Writing a Meaningful Obituary

1. Keep It Personal

While it’s important to include the essential details, an obituary is also an opportunity to share a more personal side of the deceased. Use language that feels genuine and captures the essence of who they were. Consider the tone of the obituary—whether it’s formal or lighthearted—and try to reflect the personality of the deceased.

2. Be Mindful of Length

Obituaries generally don’t need to be very long, but they should be comprehensive enough to cover the key points. Aim to include the necessary details while also leaving space for personal anecdotes or memories. A typical obituary ranges from 200 to 400 words, but it’s always best to check with the publication or funeral home for specific word count guidelines.

3. Ask Family and Friends for Input

Writing an obituary can be difficult, and it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to include. If you’re unsure about certain details or want to ensure you’re representing your loved one accurately, don’t hesitate to ask family members or close friends for their input. They may have additional details, stories, or special memories to share that can enrich the obituary.

4. Proofread Carefully

Before submitting the obituary, be sure to read it over carefully. Double-check for any spelling or factual errors, particularly in the names and dates. It can be helpful to ask someone else to read the obituary as well, as they may catch mistakes that you missed.

5. Take Your Time

Writing an obituary is a process that requires patience and care. Allow yourself the time to reflect on your loved one’s life and the impact they had. Don’t feel pressured to finish the obituary in a rush—this is an important task, and taking the time to get it right will help you create a tribute that you and your family will be proud of.

Conclusion

Writing an obituary is a deeply personal way to honor a loved one’s life and share their story with the world. It’s a chance to reflect on their achievements, relationships, and the things that made them special. By following these steps and tips, you can create an obituary that truly honors their memory and provides a lasting tribute for those who knew and loved them.

At Brandon Funerals, we are here to support you in every step of the funeral planning process, including writing a meaningful obituary. If you need assistance or guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate team.