Writing an obituary that honors a legacy can be a meaningful way to celebrate the life of a loved one. This article provides guidance on how to write an obituary that honors legacy and preserves cherished memories.
What is an Obituary?
An obituary is a public notice of someone’s death, often published in newspapers or online. It’s not just a formal announcement but also a tribute to the individual’s life, achievements, and relationships.
Purpose of an Obituary
The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform the community about a person’s passing. However, it also serves to:
- Celebrate the deceased’s life.
- Provide details about funeral arrangements.
- Invite friends and family to pay their respects.
Components of an Obituary
To ensure your obituary honors a legacy, it should typically include:
- The full name of the deceased.
- Date of birth and death.
- A brief overview of their life.
- Surviving family members.
- Information about memorial services.
How Do You Start Writing an Obituary?
Beginning to write an obituary may feel daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process easier. Here are some steps to follow:
Gather Necessary Information
Before writing, collect all relevant information, including:
- Full name and nicknames.
- Date and place of birth.
- Date and cause of death.
Decide on the Tone
Consider the tone you wish to convey in the obituary. It could be:
- Formal, focusing on achievements.
- Casual, reflecting the person’s personality.
- A blend of both, ensuring authenticity.
What Should You Include in the Obituary?
Including the right details is crucial for how to write an obituary that honors legacy. Here are some essential elements to consider:
Life Highlights
Share the significant milestones of the deceased’s life. Consider including:
- Education and career achievements.
- Hobbies and passions.
- Community involvement and contributions.
Personal Anecdotes
Including personal stories can add warmth and personality to the obituary. These anecdotes might involve:
- Memorable experiences with family and friends.
- Quirks or characteristics that made them unique.
- Lessons they imparted to loved ones.
How Do You Make It Meaningful?
To write an obituary that truly honors a legacy, it’s important to make it meaningful. Here are some tips:
Use Heartfelt Language
Opt for language that resonates with the emotions you want to convey. For instance:
- Avoid jargon or overly formal phrases.
- Use descriptive words that reflect their nature.
- Keep it sincere and genuine.
Include Quotes or Poems
Sometimes, a quote or poem can encapsulate the essence of the individual. Consider:
- A favorite saying of the deceased.
- A poem that reflects their outlook on life.
- Words from loved ones that represent their feelings.
Who Should Review the Obituary?
Once the obituary draft is complete, it’s wise to have others review it. This ensures accuracy and provides additional insights. Here are some considerations:
Family Members
Share the obituary with close family members to verify details. They can help by:
- Confirming dates and names.
- Suggesting additional information to include.
- Ensuring the tone aligns with the family’s wishes.
Friends or Community Members
Sometimes, friends or community members can offer a unique perspective. They may:
- Provide insights into the person’s impact on others.
- Suggest anecdotes that you might not have thought of.
- Help refine the overall message.
Where Should You Publish the Obituary?
Deciding where to publish the obituary is another key step. Here are some common options:
Local Newspapers
Publishing in local newspapers is a traditional method. Benefits include:
- Reaching the community where the deceased lived.
- Providing a tangible way for people to pay their respects.
- Offering a long-lasting tribute in print.
Online Platforms
In today’s digital age, online platforms offer a wide reach. Consider:
- Creating a memorial page on social media.
- Using funeral home websites for wider visibility.
- Posting on community forums or websites.
How Do You Follow Up After Publishing?
Once published, it’s important to follow up appropriately. Here are a few steps to take:
Thanking Supporters
Express gratitude to those who offered condolences. This can include:
- Sending thank-you notes to attendees of the service.
- Posting online acknowledgments.
- Calling close friends or family members to thank them personally.
Preserving the Memory
Consider creating lasting mementos from the obituary. Ideas include:
- Framing the obituary for display.
- Including it in a scrapbook or memory book.
- Sharing it during family gatherings to honor their legacy.
Writing an obituary that honors a legacy is an essential task that requires thoughtfulness and care. By following these guidelines, you can create a meaningful tribute that resonates with family and friends while celebrating the life lived.