Writing an obituary can be a daunting task, especially when emotions are running high. However, crafting a meaningful obituary is an important way to honor the deceased and provide comfort to those who are grieving. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to write an obituary, along with latest updates on common practices, and explore what happened when certain obituaries went viral.
What is an Obituary?
An obituary is a notice of a person’s death, typically including a brief biography, information about the funeral, and surviving family members. It serves as a tribute to the deceased and a public announcement of their passing.
Purpose of an Obituary
- Inform: Announce the death to the community.
- Honor: Celebrate the deceased’s life and accomplishments.
- Provide Details: Share information about the funeral or memorial services.
- Connect: Allow friends and family to offer condolences and support.
What Happened: The Basics of Writing an Obituary
Announcing the Death
Start by clearly stating the person’s full name, age, and where they lived. Include the date of death and, if appropriate, the cause of death.
Example: “Jane Doe, 78, of Springfield, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2024, after a brief illness.”
Sharing Their Life Story
Capture the key moments and details that defined them. This includes their background, family, education, career, hobbies, and personality. This section should paint a picture of who they were and what they loved.
Listing Surviving Family Members
Include the names of their closest living relatives, such as spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings. This helps the community know who is grieving and offers a way to connect and support them.
Providing Funeral/Memorial Details
Give the date, time, and location of any public funeral or memorial services. If the service is private, you may indicate this and provide details for a later memorial.
Including Charity Information
If the family requests donations instead of flowers, list the relevant charity details. This can be a meaningful way for people to honor the deceased.
How to Write an Obituary: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Information
Before you start writing, gather all the necessary information. This includes:
- Full name, age, and residence
- Date and place of birth
- Date and place of death
- Cause of death (optional)
- Key milestones (education, career, marriage, children)
- Hobbies, interests, and personality traits
- Names of surviving family members
- Funeral or memorial service details
- Preferred charities for donations
Step 2: Announce the Death
Begin with a straightforward statement about the death. Include essential details such as the full name, age, and place of residence.
Example: “John Michael Smith, 85, of Los Angeles, California, passed away on July 10, 2024, after a long battle with cancer.”
Step 3: Summarize Their Life
Write a summary of the person’s life, focusing on key milestones and what made them unique. This section should be heartfelt and personal.
Example: “John was born on May 15, 1939, in Seattle, Washington. He graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in engineering. John had a passion for solving complex problems, which led him to a successful 40-year career at Boeing. He married his high school sweetheart, Mary, in 1962, and together they raised three children. John loved fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his grandchildren.”
Step 4: List Surviving Family Members
Include the names of immediate family members who are surviving the deceased. This section often begins with the spouse and children.
Example: “John is survived by his wife, Mary; their children, David (Lisa), Susan (Tom), and Michael (Emily); and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen, and his sister, Margaret.”
Step 5: Provide Funeral/Memorial Details
Give specific details about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location.
Example: “A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on July 15, 2024, at St. Andrew’s Church, 123 Main Street, Los Angeles. A reception will follow at the family home. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John’s life.”
Step 6: Include Charity Information
If donations are preferred over flowers, provide the charity details.
Example: “In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in John’s memory.”
Step 7: Select a Photo
Choose a meaningful photo that represents the person well. This adds a personal touch to the obituary.
Step 8: Publish the Obituary
Once the obituary is written, share it online and submit it to the local newspaper. Many funeral homes offer obituary publishing services as part of their arrangements.
Video Viral: The Impact of Viral Obituaries
When Obituaries Go Viral
Some obituaries gain significant attention online, becoming viral videos or widely shared posts. This can happen for various reasons, such as the uniqueness of the person’s story, the creativity of the obituary, or the circumstances of their death.
Famous Examples
One famous example is the obituary of Mary Anne Noland, whose family humorously noted she chose to pass away rather than vote in the 2016 presidential election. This obituary quickly went viral due to its wit and the political climate at the time.
The Role of Social Media
Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube can amplify the reach of an obituary, bringing together a community of mourners and well-wishers from around the world.
Ethical Considerations
While the viral nature of an obituary can bring comfort and support, it’s essential to handle such situations with sensitivity and respect for the family’s wishes and privacy.
Leak Video: The Ethical Dilemmas
The Emergence of Leak Videos
In the digital age, leak videos can occur, showing private moments related to the deceased’s passing. These videos often spark debates about privacy and ethics.
Handling Leak Videos
If a leak video emerges, it’s crucial to handle the situation delicately. Families should be advised on how to manage such content, including legal actions if necessary, and ensuring the dignity of the deceased is maintained.
Privacy vs. Public Interest
Balancing privacy and public interest can be challenging. While the public may have a genuine interest, respecting the family’s wishes and the deceased’s dignity should always come first.
How to Write an Obituary: Practical Tips
Be Concise Yet Detailed
Strike a balance between being concise and providing enough detail to paint a full picture of the deceased’s life.
Use a Warm, Conversational Tone
Write in a conversational tone that reflects the personality of the person being remembered. This makes the obituary more engaging and personal.
Proofread and Edit
Ensure the obituary is free from errors. Proofreading and editing are crucial to ensure accuracy and clarity.
Involve Family Members
Involve close family members in the writing process. They can provide valuable insights and ensure the obituary accurately reflects the deceased’s life and personality.
Be Mindful of Sensitive Information
Avoid including overly sensitive or private information that the family might not want to be public.
Conclusion: Honoring a Life
Creating a Lasting Tribute
Writing an obituary is a significant way to honor the deceased and provide comfort to those who are grieving. It serves as a lasting tribute that captures the essence of a person’s life and legacy.
Embracing the Digital Age
In today’s digital age, obituaries can reach a wider audience than ever before. Embracing online platforms allows families to share their loved one’s story with a global community.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on writing an obituary, remember to balance factual details with personal anecdotes, use a warm tone, and involve family members in the process. This approach will help you create a meaningful and lasting tribute that honors the life and legacy of the deceased.
By following these steps and considering the latest updates and ethical considerations, you can craft an obituary that not only informs but also celebrates and remembers a life well-lived.