How to Write an Obituary (With a Simple Template)
Last reviewed 2026-11-01
Short answer: Start with the full name, age, date and place of death, then a short life story, surviving family, and service details. Keep it to a few paragraphs, confirm names and dates with relatives, and check the newspaper's length and cost before submitting.
A simple structure
- Announcement: name, age, date and place of death (cause is optional).
- Life summary: birthplace, family, work, passions, service or faith.
- Survivors and those who passed before: list family names carefully.
- Service details: date, time, place, livestream, and where to send gifts or donations.
Tips
Read it aloud, ask a second person to proofread names and dates, and avoid listing a home address. Check publication length limits and fees before you finalize.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an obituary be?
Newspaper notices are often short because of cost; online versions can be longer. Write a full version and trim for print.
Do I have to include the cause of death?
No. It is a personal choice for the family.