How To Format An Obituary (2024)

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Crafting a fitting tribute for a loved one does not have to be difficult, and understanding how to format an obituary can help guide the process. This article explores the essential elements of obituary formatting, providing examples and insights into standard formats. Whether you're writing an obituary for a newspaper publication or creating a memorial online, mastering the art of formatting ensures that your tribute honors the life and legacy of the departed with clarity and respect.

How long are obituaries that are placed in newspapers?

The length of obituaries in newspapers can vary widely depending on the publication's policies, available space, and the preferences (and budget) of the family. However, most newspapers have specific guidelines regarding word limits for obituaries.

In general, obituaries in newspapers tend to be relatively concise, typically ranging from 100 to 400 words. Some newspapers may offer longer obituary options for an additional fee, allowing families to include more detailed information or personal anecdotes about the deceased.

Check with the newspaper where the obituary will be published for their specific guidelines and any associated costs. This ensures that the obituary adheres to the publication's requirements and fits within the allocated space.

How does the format of an obituary affect the price for printing in newspapers?

When writing, the format of an obituary can affect the price for printing in newspapers in several ways:

1. Word count: Many newspapers charge based on the number of words in the obituary. Longer obituaries with more detailed information or personal anecdotes may incur higher costs compared to shorter, more concise ones.

2. Additional features: Some newspapers offer additional features or enhancements for obituaries, such as including a photograph, special formatting, or extended length. These features typically come at an extra cost.

3. Publication size: The size of the newspaper and the placement of the obituary within it can also influence the price. Obituaries published in prominent sections or larger newspapers may have higher rates than those placed in smaller publications or less prominent sections.

4. Publication policies: Newspapers may have different pricing structures and policies regarding obituaries. Some may offer package deals or discounts for multiple insertions, while others may charge a flat fee based on standard rates.

5. Online availability: In addition to print publication, many newspapers also offer online obituary sections or digital editions. Prices for online obituaries may vary depending on factors such as website traffic, duration of publication, and any additional features included.

The cost of printing an obituary in a newspaper will depend on a combination of these factors and the specific policies of the publication. It's essential for families to inquire about pricing and available options when arranging for the publication of an obituary.

What is the standard format for an obituary?

The format for an obituary varies depending on personal preferences, cultural norms, and the guidelines of the publication where it will be printed. However, a typical obituary usually includes the following elements:

1. Announcement: Start with a concise announcement of the death, including the full name of the deceased, age, and date of death.

2. Biographical information: Provide relevant biographical details about the deceased, such as their date and place of birth, names of parents, education, career, hobbies, achievements, and any significant life events.

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3. Family information: Mention surviving family members, including spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings, and sometimes extended family members. You can also include predeceased family members.

4. Funeral or memorial service details: Include information about any upcoming funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life, such as date, time, and location. You can also specify if it's open to the public or restricted to certain individuals.

5. Memorial contributions: Optionally, suggest any charities, organizations, or causes that people can donate to in memory of the deceased.

6. Closing statement: End with a brief closing statement expressing gratitude, remembrance, or any final thoughts.

While this format is standard, it’s certainly not the only accepted format of obituaries. You can write an obituary as long, as short, as unique, or as standard as you’re looking to. Sometimes it can also help to look at examples that others have posted in order to get an idea of what you want to write.

Obituary outline and format template

Now that you understand the elements of a standard obituary, it can help to see those elements outlined in order. Here's a thorough obituary outline template that you can use as a guide:

[Full Name of the Deceased]

(Age, Date of Birth – Date of Death)

Announcement of Death:

Begin with a concise announcement of the passing of the deceased, including their full name, age at the time of death, and the date of death.

Biographical Information:

Provide relevant biographical details about the deceased:

• Date and place of birth
• Names of parents
• Education
• Career highlights
• Hobbies and interests
• Achievements and awards
• Any significant life events

Family Information:

Mention surviving family members, including:

• Spouse/partner
• Children and their spouses/partners
• Grandchildren
• Siblings
• Other relatives and close friends
• Predeceased family members, if applicable

Funeral or Memorial Service Details:

Include information about any upcoming funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life:

• Date, time, and location
• Any specific instructions or requests (e.g., attire, donations in lieu of flowers)
• Whether the service is open to the public or restricted to certain individuals

Memorial Contributions:

Optionally, suggest charities, organizations, or causes that people can donate to in memory of the deceased. Provide details such as the name of the organization, address, and any specific instructions for making donations.

Closing Statement:

End with a brief closing statement expressing gratitude, remembrance, or any final thoughts about the deceased.

Feel free to customize this outline according to your preferences and the specific details of the individual's life.

What are some examples of different obituary formats?

Here are a few examples of obituary formats:

1. Traditional format:
   [Announcement of Death]
   [Biographical Information]
   [Family Information]
   [Funeral or Memorial Service Details]
   [Memorial Contributions]
   [Closing Statement]

2. Narrative format:
   [Narrative Introduction about the deceased]
   [Chronological Account of Life Events]
   [Personal Anecdotes or Stories]
   [Family Information]
   [Funeral or Memorial Service Details]
   [Memorial Contributions]
   [Closing Statement]

3. Poetic or expressive format:
   [Poetic Tribute or Expressive Introduction]
   [Brief Biographical Information]
   [Family Information]
   [Reflections on the Deceased's Life]
   [Funeral or Memorial Service Details]
   [Memorial Contributions]
   [Closing Poetic Statement]

4. Minimalist format:
   [Announcement of Death with Name and Date]
   [Brief Biographical Information]
   [Family Information]
   [Funeral or Memorial Service Details]
   [Closing Statement]

5. Unique or themed format:
   [Introduction with a Theme or Metaphor]
   [Biographical Information with Emphasis on Theme]
   [Family Information]
   [Reflections on the Deceased's Life within the Theme]
   [Funeral or Memorial Service Details]
   [Memorial Contributions]
   [Closing Statement]

Each format can be tailored to suit the preferences of the deceased or their family, as well as the tone and style desired for the obituary.

Sample obituary formats for newspapers

Here is an obituary format example for a small obituary posted in the paper. It should be noted that this obituary example is longer and may be more expensive for those who are working with newspapers that have an expensive price for each line.

John Robert Smith
(1948 – 2024)
John Robert Smith, age 76, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2024. John was born on June 15, 1948, in Springfield, Illinois, to the late James and Margaret Smith. He graduated from Springfield High School in 1966 and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois. John had a successful career in finance, working for over 40 years at ABC Corporation. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time with his family. John is survived by his loving wife, Susan, their two children, Michael (Sarah) and Jennifer (David), and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary, and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Peter's Church, 123 Main Street, Springfield, Illinois. Interment will follow at Springfield Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. John will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

If the previous example is too long or too expensive, here is an example of an obituary format that’s shorter and would most likely be less expensive:

Mary Elizabeth Johnson, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024. Survived by her devoted husband John, children Sarah and David, and four grandchildren. A private family service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery on May 18, 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association. Mary will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

How long can online obituaries be?

The length of online obituaries can vary widely depending on the platform or website where they are published. Unlike print newspapers, which may have word count limitations, online obituaries often have more flexibility in terms of length.

Some online obituary platforms, such as Ever Loved, offer unlimited space for obituaries, allowing families to include as much information, personal anecdotes, and photographs as they desire. Ever Loved also offers templates for obituaries, which includes various lengths and formatting options. Families often find posting an obituary online helpful since they have more room to write an obituary and not be charged for it. Since Ever Loved offers free online obituaries, you don’t have to worry about length limits or being charged for each sentence you write.

Publish a free online obituary

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to post an obituary online, consider using Ever Loved. Whether posting cherished photographs, collecting donations for a meaningful cause, or sharing event details, you’ll be able to post a comprehensive and personalized tribute online, for free.

Create a memorial website