Obituary Template & Examples for Every Loss

How to Write an Obituary Template + 15 Examples

Writing an obituary for a loved one is one of the hardest things you may ever have to do. In the middle of grief, finding the right words—simple, meaningful, respectful—can feel overwhelming.

This guide is here to help.

You'll find everything you need to write a meaningful obituary:

• A step-by-step breakdown of what to include
• A customizable obituary template
• 15 obituary examples for different relationships (father, mother, spouse, friend, and more)

Whether you’re writing for a newspaper, funeral program, or online memorial, this page gives you gentle guidance—and ready-to-use examples.

Cross-Reference: For more examples, visit Short Condolence Message for concise, heartfelt options.

What Is an Obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of someone’s death that often includes:

• Key personal details (name, age, date/place of death)
• A brief summary of their life and achievements
• Mentions of surviving family members
• Funeral or memorial details
• Optional donation or tribute information

Obituaries are typically published in newspapers, on funeral home websites, or shared online and on social media. Think of them as both practical announcements and small tributes.

Cross-Reference: For inspiration specific to family losses, read Condolence Message on Death of Father or Condolence Message for Mother.

Step-by-Step: How to Write an Obituary

1. Start with the basics

Include these essentials upfront:

• Full name (include nickname if used)
• Age at death
• Place and date of death
• Optional: cause of death (if publicly appropriate)

2. Add a short life overview

Mention:

• Birthdate and place
• Parents’ names (if desired)
• Education, career, or milestones
• Any notable community or volunteer work

Keep this section factual, clear, and no more than 2–4 sentences.

3. Mention surviving family

List immediate family:

• Spouse or partner
• Children and their partners
• Grandchildren, siblings, close friends (if important)

You can use phrases like:

• “Survived by…”
• “Preceded in death by…”

4. Highlight achievements and passions

Include:

• Career accomplishments
• Hobbies, talents, or causes they supported
• What they were known for or proud of

Focus on what defined their character.

5. Add a sentence about personality

This could be a memory, character trait, or how they made others feel. Keep it heartfelt and specific.

6. Include funeral/memorial details

Give:

• Date, time, and location
• Whether it’s public or private
• Streaming link if online

7. Optional: Memorial wishes

You may close with:

• Donation suggestions
• “In lieu of flowers…”
• Any thanks to caregivers or hospitals

Cross-Reference: Need more ideas? Check out Sudden Death Condolence Message and Condolence Message for co-worker for tailored suggestions..

Simple Obituary Template You Can Fill In

Basic Obituary Template (Full Text)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of [Full Name], aged [Age], of [City, State], on [Date].

Born on [Date of Birth] in [Place], [First Name] was the beloved [relation roles—e.g., husband, father, grandfather, friend] and a cherished member of the [community, workplace, etc.].

He/She spent [number] years working as a [profession] and was passionate about [interests, causes, hobbies].

[First Name] is survived by [list family members], and was preceded in death by [optional].

A service will be held at [Location] on [Date] at [Time]. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [charity or cause].

He/She will be deeply missed.

Cross-Reference: For more nuanced guidance, refer to Condolence Message for Mother or Condolences Text Messages.

Fill-in-the-Blank Obituary Template

We are saddened to share that [Full Name], aged [Age], passed away in [City, State] on [Date of Death].

Born [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth], [First Name] was the [son/daughter/partner/friend] of [Parent Names].

[He/She] worked as a [Profession] and was known for [Trait or Passion].

[First Name] is survived by [List of Family Members and Relationships].

A funeral/memorial will be held on [Date] at [Time] at [Location].

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to [Charity Name].

Short Obituary Examples (Newspaper Length)

Example 1: General Adult Obituary

John Michael Edwards, age 67, of Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2024. A lifelong teacher and avid hiker, he is survived by his wife, Carol, and two children, Anna and Thomas. A memorial will be held Saturday at 2pm at Greenview Chapel.

Example 2: For an Elderly Parent

Margaret Anne Thompson, 92, passed away at home in Milwaukee, surrounded by her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend who loved baking and storytelling. Margaret’s life will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Church on June 15.

Example 3: With Donation Mention

James L. Ramirez, 74, died after a brief illness on October 10, 2023. He is survived by his wife Linda and their children. A private service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity.

Example 4: Very Minimal Format

Betty Chen, age 81, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2023. Loved by many. Private family service to be held.

Cross-Reference: Need more ideas? Check out Sudden Death Condolence Message and Condolence Message for coworker for tailored suggestions.

Obituary Examples by Relationship

Obituary for a Father (2 examples)

Example 1 (Short):

Our beloved father, William Davis, passed away at 85 after a life of dedication to his family and craft. He taught us love, work ethic, and loyalty.

Example 2 (Medium):

William “Bill” Davis, 85, passed peacefully on March 3, surrounded by family. He was a devoted husband, loving father of four, and master carpenter who built both homes and memories. He’ll be remembered for his wisdom, humor, and quiet strength.

Cross-Reference: If unsure, explore our blog Beginners Guide: Types of Condolence Messages for a simplified approach.

Obituary for a Mother (2 examples)

Example 1:

Karen Lynn Moore, 77, passed away peacefully in her sleep. A dedicated mother and grandmother, she found joy in gardening, reading, and volunteering. Her warmth touched everyone she met.

Example 2:

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Karen Moore. She was a nurse, a mother of three, and a tireless advocate for community health. Her spirit lives on in those she served and loved.

Obituary for a Spouse or Partner (2 examples)

Example 1 (First-person):

My wife, Amanda, passed away on January 12 after a long illness. She was the love of my life, the mother of our children, and my greatest companion. I’ll carry her memory in everything I do.

Example 2 (Family-voiced):

We mourn the loss of Amanda Leigh Brooks, 61, beloved wife, mother, and friend. Her laughter filled every room, and her love knew no limits.

Obituary for a Friend or Sibling (2 examples)

Friend example:

Brian Coleman, 59, passed away suddenly on September 14. A loyal friend and gifted storyteller, he brought joy to everyone who knew him.

Sibling example:

Elizabeth “Liz” Tran passed on peacefully at 60. She was a loving sister, a proud aunt, and a fierce defender of those she loved. We’ll miss her wit, her wisdom, and her unwavering strength.

Grief quotes bring comfort, clarity, and strength in times of loss and remembrance.

Common Obituary Mistakes to Avoid

• Too much detail about the death: Avoid graphic or overly personal info about illness or circumstances.
• Misspelling names or leaving someone out: Triple-check names, titles, and relationship order with family.
• Using private jokes or unclear phrases: Keep the message clear for anyone reading.
• Writing too long or like a resume: Focus on highlights, not exhaustive life history.
• Tone mismatch: Choose words that reflect how the person would’ve wanted to be remembered.

Cross-Reference: Learn about bereavement support in Bereavement Leave and Leave Application for Death.

FAQ: Writing an Obituary

How long should an obituary be?

Most are 100–250 words. Newspaper space may limit you; online obituaries can be longer.

Should I include the cause of death?

Optional. Only mention it if the family is comfortable and it's relevant (e.g., public fundraiser, awareness).

Who usually writes it?

Often a family member, close friend, or funeral home staff. It can also be co-written.

Can I post the obituary on social media?

Yes. Many families now share digital versions on Facebook or memorial websites.

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Closing Thoughts

An obituary doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to be honest. Start with the basic template, then add a few details that truly reflect who they were. Ask a family member to review your draft, and remember: your words, however simple, will be cherished.

For more support, you may want to explore related resources like: