Who Writes Obituaries?

What Are Obituaries?

Obituaries are more than just announcements of death; they are tributes that encapsulate the essence of a person’s life. An obituary not only informs others of someone’s passing but also celebrates their life, sharing stories, accomplishments, and the impact they had on those around them.

The Importance of Obituaries

In a world where we often move at a fast pace, obituaries serve as a moment to pause and reflect on the lives of those we’ve lost. They allow the deceased’s story to live on, providing a sense of closure for family and friends while offering a lasting memory of the individual’s contributions and character.

Who Writes Obituaries?

Family Members

One of the most common people to write an obituary is a family member. This makes sense, as family members are usually closest to the deceased and have intimate knowledge of their life and achievements. Writing an obituary can be a therapeutic process for grieving family members, offering them a chance to celebrate their loved one’s life while coming to terms with their loss.

Friends of the Deceased

Close friends of the deceased sometimes take on the task of writing an obituary. Friends often provide a unique perspective, highlighting aspects of the deceased’s life that family members might overlook. The stories and memories shared by friends can paint a more complete picture of the person’s character and impact.

Funeral Directors and Staff

In many cases, funeral directors or their staff assist in writing obituaries. They often offer templates or guidelines to help families structure the obituary, ensuring that all necessary details are included. This can be especially helpful for those who are unsure where to start or how to articulate their thoughts during a difficult time.

Professional Obituary Writers

There is also a growing profession of obituary writers who specialize in crafting these tributes. Professional obituary writers bring a level of expertise and objectivity to the process. They can help ensure that the obituary is well-written, respectful, and accurately reflects the life of the deceased. This option is particularly beneficial for families who want a polished obituary but feel overwhelmed by the task of writing it themselves.

Journalists and Newspaper Staff

In some cases, especially when the deceased was a notable public figure, journalists or newspaper staff may write the obituary. These obituaries often require a different approach, focusing on the individual’s public achievements and impact rather than personal stories. Newspaper obituaries are typically more formal and follow specific editorial guidelines.

Collaborative Writing: A Group Effort

Sometimes, writing an obituary becomes a collaborative effort among family members, friends, and others who knew the deceased. This approach can result in a richer, more detailed obituary that reflects multiple perspectives. It also allows those who are grieving to share the responsibility and create something meaningful together.

The Writing Process

Gathering Information

The first step in writing an obituary is gathering information about the deceased. This includes basic details like their full name, date of birth, and date of death, as well as more personal information such as their achievements, hobbies, and memorable life events. This process often involves speaking with family members and friends to ensure that the obituary accurately represents the deceased’s life.

Understanding the Deceased’s Life

Understanding the deceased’s life means looking beyond the basic facts. What were their passions? How did they impact others? What legacy did they leave behind? By exploring these questions, the writer can create an obituary that truly honors the individual’s life and character.

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

An obituary should tell a story. Rather than just listing facts, it should weave together the different aspects of the deceased’s life into a compelling narrative. This includes highlighting significant moments, relationships, and accomplishments that defined who they were.

Editing and Finalizing the Obituary

Once the obituary is written, it’s essential to review and edit it carefully. This ensures that the obituary is clear, respectful, and free of errors. The final version should be something that the family and friends can be proud of, a tribute that does justice to the deceased’s memory.

Types of Obituaries

Paid vs. Free Obituaries

Obituaries can be either paid or free, depending on where they are published. Paid obituaries are often placed in newspapers or online platforms and can be more detailed, allowing families to share more about the deceased’s life. Free obituaries, on the other hand, are typically shorter and may be published on funeral home websites or social media.

Short Notices vs. Full-Length Obituaries

Short notices usually include basic information such as the deceased’s name, date of birth, and date of death, along with details about the funeral service. Full-length obituaries, however, provide a more in-depth look at the deceased’s life, including personal stories, achievements, and tributes from family and friends.

Conclusion

The Lasting Impact of an Obituary

Obituaries are much more than just announcements of someone’s passing; they are a vital part of the grieving process and a lasting tribute to the deceased. They allow family and friends to remember and honor their loved ones, preserving their legacy for future generations. Whether written by a family member, friend, or professional, an obituary is a meaningful way to celebrate a life well-lived.

FAQs

1. Who is typically responsible for writing an obituary?
   • Family members, friends, or professionals often write obituaries. In some cases, funeral directors assist with the process.
2. What should be included in an obituary?
   • An obituary should include the deceased’s full name, date of birth, date of death, key life achievements, and funeral service details.
3. How long should an obituary be?
   • The length can vary, but most obituaries range from a short notice of 100-200 words to a full-length tribute of 500-800 words.
4. Can a professional be hired to write an obituary?
   • Yes, professional obituary writers can be hired to ensure the obituary is well-crafted and respectful.
5. What is the difference between a paid and a free obituary?
   • Paid obituaries are often longer and more detailed, while free obituaries are usually shorter and may be published on funeral home websites or social media.