Make sure you have the key details:

• Full name (and nickname, if used)

• Age at passing

• Date and place of death

• Birth date and birthplace

• Immediate family (predeceased and surviving)

• Funeral/memorial details (date, time, place)
  

Beyond the basics, include what made them them:

• Education, career highlights, or military service

• Hobbies, passions, or talents

• Community involvement, volunteer work, or causes they cared about

• Personality traits (funny, kind, adventurous, generous)

• Anecdotes that capture their spirit
  

Match the tone to the person’s personality and your family’s wishes.

• Traditional/Formal: Focuses on facts, faith, legacy.

• Personal/Poetic: Includes stories, quotes, or even humor.

• Casual/Warm: Simple and conversational.
  

• List survivors in a consistent order: spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings. You can also mention beloved pets or chosen family.

• If sensitive family dynamics exist (divorce, estrangement, remarriage), be careful with phrasing — neutral language often helps.

• State where/when the funeral or memorial will be.

• Add donation preferences (e.g., “In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to [charity]”).

• A favorite quote, saying, or line that captures their outlook.

• An invitation to celebrate their life.

• Example: “She lived with love, laughter, and an open heart — and we will carry her spirit with us always.”

• Newspaper obituaries often charge by the word, so edit down to essentials.

• Online memorials usually allow longer stories, photos, and tributes.

This can and should be a group project. Ask family and friends for stories or phrases — it makes the obituary richer and lessens the pressure on you.