What to Include in an Obituary: A Simple Guide

What to Include in an Obituary: A Simple, Helpful Guide

Writing an obituary is one of those tasks no one ever really expects to do - until they have to. It can feel overwhelming: How do you sum up a life in just a few short paragraphs?

The truth is, you don’t have to capture everything. A meaningful obituary doesn’t need to be long or fancy - just thoughtful and true to the person.

Whether you’re writing for a loved one or planning ahead for yourself, this                                        guide offers a simple structure to help you get started.


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Basic Information to Include

Start with the essentials. These are usually the first lines of an obituary:

Full name (including maiden name, if applicable)

Age

Date and place of death

Where they lived


> Example:
John Michael Anderson, 78, of Hamilton, Ontario, passed away peacefully at home on July 1, 2025.



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A Brief Life Story

This is where you help people see the person behind the name. Include just enough to paint a picture:

Where they were born and raised

Education or career highlights

Hobbies, interests, or passions

Character traits (“known for her warm heart and love of baking”)

Faith, community involvement, or organizations they belonged to


> Example:
John was born in 1947 in Ottawa and spent most of his life in Hamilton. He worked as a mechanic for over 40 years and was a proud member of the local Legion. He loved classic cars, crossword puzzles, and spending Sundays with his grandchildren.




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Family Members

List close relatives in a way that feels warm, not overwhelming. Typically includes:

Predeceased family (e.g. spouse, parents, siblings)

Immediate surviving family: spouse/partner, children, grandchildren, siblings


You don’t need to list everyone by name unless you want to.

> John is lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Mary, their three children, and six grandchildren. He is predeceased by his sister, Margaret.




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Service Details

Include information about the funeral, visitation, or celebration of life - or state if it’s private.

Date, time, and location of the service

Viewing/visitation details

Reception or gathering afterward

Memorial or donation info (if applicable)


> A visitation will be held at Turner Funeral Home on Friday, July 5 from 4-7 p.m. A celebration of life will follow on Saturday, July 6 at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Church.



> In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.




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Optional Touches

If it feels right, add a closing thought or sentiment:

A favourite quote or Bible verse

A message of thanks to caregivers or hospice staff

A simple phrase like “Forever in our hearts” or “He will be missed by all who knew him”


> “To know him was to love him.”




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Tips for Writing

Keep it personal: You don’t need fancy words - just speak from the heart.

Ask for input: Let family members contribute a memory or detail.

Proofread carefully: Have someone else review it before publication.



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Need Help?

At Turner Family Funeral Home, we’re here to guide you through every part of the process — including writing a meaningful obituary. We can help you choose the right wording, share the obituary online or in print, and ensure every detail is handled with care. 


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Final Thought

An obituary doesn’t have to tell an entire life story - just a few pieces that help others remember, smile, and reflect. If you’re reading this while grieving, be gentle with yourself. You’re doing a hard thing with love - and that matters more than anything.





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