Writing an obituary for a loved one is one of the most emotional and meaningful tasks a person can undertake. It’s more than just a notice of someone’s passing—it’s a tribute, a memorial, and a way to celebrate a life well-lived. Whether you’re trying to summarize decades of achievements or convey the depth of a short but impactful life, choosing the right words matters deeply.
In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of crafting a heartfelt obituary and provide you with obituary wording examples to guide and inspire you through the process.
Why Obituary Wording Matters
Obituaries serve multiple roles. They announce the passing, share funeral service information, highlight key life events, and most importantly, honor the person who has passed. The words you choose help shape how others remember and celebrate their life.
Effective obituary wording:
- Reflects the person’s character and values
- Honors their legacy
- Offers comfort and closure to friends and family
- Provides important logistical details
Given the emotional weight of the moment, many people find it difficult to begin. That’s why turning to obituary wording examples can provide clarity, structure, and inspiration.
Structure of a Thoughtful Obituary
Before diving into examples, it helps to understand the typical structure of an obituary:
- Announcement of Death
- Brief Biography (including birth and death dates)
- Life Accomplishments and Passions
- Family Members (surviving and predeceased)
- Funeral or Memorial Service Details
- Closing Note (optional quotes, messages, or donation requests)
While this outline can guide you, remember that obituaries are personal. There’s no right or wrong way to write them—as long as they come from the heart.
Top Obituary Wording Examples
Below are categorized obituary wording examples to match different tones, life stories, and levels of detail. Feel free to adapt them to reflect your loved one’s unique life.
- Simple and Traditional Obituary Example
“John Michael Harrison, age 82, of Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025. Born on March 3, 1943, in Albany, NY, John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He spent 40 years as a public school teacher and was known for his passion for literature and gardening. John is survived by his wife Mary, children David and Claire, and five grandchildren. A private family service will be held at Green Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.”
This style suits newspaper publications or families wanting a concise tribute.
- Detailed and Personalized Obituary Example
“Margaret ‘Maggie’ Lou Grant, 68, passed away surrounded by family on July 21, 2025, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Born on May 14, 1957, in San Diego, CA, Maggie lived a life full of art, kindness, and unwavering strength. A graduate of the University of New Mexico, she dedicated her career to community arts programs, touching countless lives through her murals and workshops. She loved poetry, hummingbirds, and sunset walks. She is survived by her husband Elias, her children Lily and Jonah, her sister Carmen, and three beloved dogs. A celebration of life will be held on August 2 at the Santa Fe Art Center.”
This example is more expressive and vivid, giving readers a strong sense of who the person was.
- Obituary for a Young Person
“It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Emily Rose Spencer, age 17, on July 15, 2025. Emily was a radiant light in the lives of everyone she met. A recent high school graduate, she had dreams of becoming a pediatric nurse and a passion for helping others. She loved baking, playing guitar, and volunteering at local shelters. Emily is survived by her parents, Sarah and Mark Spencer, and her younger brother, Daniel. A memorial service will be held on July 29 at Grace Chapel. In her memory, the family asks that you perform a random act of kindness.”
Crafting obituaries for children or teens is incredibly sensitive. This example blends grief with a sense of hope and remembrance.
- Veteran Obituary Example
“Captain Henry ‘Hank’ O’Reilly (Ret.), 91, passed away on July 10, 2025. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, Hank served his country in Korea and Vietnam with distinction. Born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1934, he later earned a degree in mechanical engineering from MIT. He married his beloved wife, Eileen, in 1961 and together they raised four children. After retiring from the Navy, he worked as a high school science teacher and was active in the local VFW. He is survived by Eileen, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Full military honors will be rendered at his funeral on August 1.”
This example includes the individual’s service and legacy with dignity and respect.
- Humorous or Lighthearted Obituary Example
“Frank ‘Big Red’ Delaney checked out on July 13, 2025, at the age of 84—likely to avoid another winter of shoveling snow in Buffalo. Born with a sarcastic wit and a fierce love for Buffalo wings, Frank was a barber, a jokester, and an expert storyteller. He leaves behind a family who adored him and a freezer full of chili no one knows how to recreate. Join us for a send-off party (yes, Frank’s idea) on August 5 at McGinty’s Pub. He wanted laughter, not tears, and we plan to honor that.”
If the deceased was known for their humor or wanted a joyful farewell, this tone can provide healing through laughter.
- Faith-Based Obituary Example
“On July 19, 2025, our beloved mother and grandmother, Anna Grace Williams, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 89. Born on November 2, 1935, Anna devoted her life to her family and church community. A prayer warrior and Sunday school teacher, she was a guiding light to many. She is reunited in Heaven with her husband James and son Peter. She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A homegoing service will be held at New Life Baptist Church on July 30.”
Faith can be a comforting thread to weave into obituary wording for religious families.
Tips for Writing Your Own Obituary
While obituary wording examples are helpful, your own words will carry the most weight. Keep these writing tips in mind:
- Speak from the heart: Don’t worry about being “perfect.” Aim for genuine.
- Use active, positive language: Celebrate life, rather than focusing solely on loss.
- Include details that matter: Unique hobbies, quirks, or favorite sayings make it personal.
- Keep the tone appropriate: Consider the wishes and personality of the deceased.
- Edit and review: Have a family member or friend read it before publication.
Where to Share the Obituary
Once your obituary is written, consider where you’d like to publish it:
- Local newspapers
- Funeral home websites
- Memorial service programs
- Online platforms like Legacy.com
- Social media (for wider reach)
Each platform may have formatting requirements or word limits, so adapt accordingly.
Honoring the Life Behind the Words
Writing an obituary is never easy, but it is a profound way to honor a loved one’s memory. Whether you lean toward formal, poetic, humorous, or deeply spiritual language, the right words will resonate with readers and bring comfort to those who knew and loved the person.
By studying these obituary wording examples, you gain not just templates—but a glimpse into how words can beautifully capture a life.
