How to Start Writing a Meaningful Obituary

✍️ How to Start Writing a Meaningful Obituary Writing an obituary can feel overwhelming, especially in the middle of grief. But an obituary is more than an announcement — it’s a chance to honor a life, share stories, and create a lasting tribute for family and friends. Whether you’re writing for a loved one or preparing your own story in advance, here are a few steps to help you begin. 1. Begin with the Basics Start with the essentials: full name, age, birth and death dates, and primary relationships (spouse, children, siblings). This grounds the obituary in fact and provides the foundation. 2. Capture the Person’s Spirit Beyond facts, what made this person unique? Was it their kindness, their humor, their love of baseball, or their passion for helping others? Choose one or two qualities that everyone will remember. 3. Share Highlights and Stories Think of moments that reflect their life: a favorite trip, a community project, or the way they always made holidays special. Short, vivid stories bring warmth and personality. 4. Acknowledge Loved Ones Include close family, and when appropriate, mention extended relatives or friends who played important roles. This makes the obituary inclusive and personal. 5. Close with Connection You may want to share funeral or memorial details, a favorite quote, or words of gratitude to those who supported your loved one. End with something that feels true to their memory. 💡 Final Thoughts An obituary doesn’t have to be perfect. What matters most is that it reflects the heart of the person you’re honoring. Even a few simple sentences can carry deep meaning. If you’d like more step-by-step guidance, examples, and ready-to-use templates, I’ve created a resource to make the process easier: 📖 Get the paperback or Kindle edition on Amazon 📂 Download the printable PDF on Etsy ✨ By taking it one step at a time, you’ll create something lasting — a gift of memory, love, and legacy.