Writing an Obituary for Your Lost Loved One
A thoughtful and well written obituary is an important part of the funeral planning process, as well as being one of a handful of tributes through which you can publicly honor the memory of a loved one. Writing an obituary, however, is not always easy. Here is some advice that can help you work smoothly and feel confident about the obituary you write for your recently deceased loved one.
Gather Information
If you feel like you are not sure where to start when writing an obituary, it can be helpful to compile information about your loved one in a single place. Check official documents, rack your brain, and speak with others until you have accurate information about your loved one’s life, family, career, birth, and death.
Create an Outline
Once you have collected vital data and biographical information about your loved one, decide what details are most appropriate and use these details to create an outline. Most obituaries include the full name of the deceased, his or her date or birth and death, the names of surviving family members, accomplishments and career highlights, and information about when and where burial or memorial services are to be held.
Write a Draft
Use your outline to write a first draft of the obituary. It may be helpful to look at templates online or made available by your funeral service provider. After you have written a draft and read it through, have someone else who knew your loved one look over it and provide you with input.
Revise and Publish
Incorporate any of the feedback you receive from a friend or family member of the deceased, and publish the obituary. The funeral home you are working with may be able to recommend local newspapers or publications you may wish to contact about publishing the obituary.
Are you a Chicago area resident who is looking for a funeral home that can help walk you through the obituary writing process and print your obituary for you? Call Leak & Sons Funeral Homes at (773) 846-6567 to learn about our obituary services and the full range of funeral planning assistance we provide.
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