How to Write an Obituary for a Loved One

An obituary is one of several details to go into funeral planning. On a basic level, it’s an announcement to notify others that a loved one has died. It can also be used to announce funeral or memorial plans after cremation services in Kennebunk, ME. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to write a great one. 



Collect relevant information 

An obituary contains, at minimum, some biographical information about the deceased person. This includes birth and death date, education, marriage information, work history, and achievements. 

You can also include the cause of death, although this is up to you. Many families prefer to withhold information from the public. As a replacement, you can use phrases like “after sudden death” or “after a long illness.” 

If you don’t have all this information, reach out to people who knew your loved one. Namely, family members, friends, coworkers, or community members. 

Describe the Person’s Life 

Beyond standard facts, craft a summary of their life that captures their spirit and personality. Here, you can let your emotions show through humor or heartfelt words. 

In short, you can describe what your loved one was like by focusing on their passions, hobbies, and character. 

An obituary does not have to include this. Short, factual notice is enough. But adding this section elevates the obituary, personalizes it, and helps other people connect with their memory of the deceased. 

Mention the Surviving Family 

It’s worth mentioning again that there’s no “right way” to write an obituary. The details you choose to include are up to you or the deceased’s wishes. That said, it’s customary for families to include the surviving family in the announcement. 

This doesn’t have to include every niece or nephew, or sibling. It can be a general overview of the surviving family, some listed by name and others by the relationship. 

Include the Funeral Information 

An obituary is also a means to share funeral information, especially if you have a public viewing. The details should include the funeral’s date, time, and location. 

If any other detail is necessary for guests, such as dress code, donations, or flower preference, include them. 

When you put each step together, your obituary should look something like this: 

“On Friday, November 11, 2022, Jane Doe, loving wife and mother of three children, passed away after a brief illness at age 78. 

She was born on June 23, 1944, in Kennebunk, ME, to Bob and Jane Doe. After graduating from high school, Jane found her calling in the Peace Corps, where she served for two years, during which she met her husband, John. Their beautiful union produced two children: Chad and Brenda. 

Jane spent her time teaching and painting. She also enjoyed traveling and often found elaborate ways to combine all three passions into an exciting life. Her neighborhood benefited from her boundless kindness, as did her family, who enjoyed her delicious meals and exotic recipes. 

A funeral service is scheduled for 10 am on November 14, 2022, at St. David’s Episcopal Church on York Street. All donations should be sent to Jane’s favorite charity, Ruths Reusable Resources.” 

Read and reread the obituary and share it with others to gain multiple perspectives before sending it off for publication. 

If you’re still having trouble writing one, your local funeral director can help. And if you need direct cremation services in Kennebunk, ME, contact us or get started with arrangements here.