How to Write an Obituary

Crafting a Meaningful Obituary: Tips from Wing-Bain Funeral Home

Writing an obituary can be a challenging task, as it requires you to capture the essence of a person’s life in a brief but meaningful way. If you have recently lost a loved one in Montevideo, Granite Falls, or Clara City, Wing-Bain Funeral Home is a trusted provider that can offer assistance. Here are some tips to help get you started:

Write a Brief Introduction: Start with a concise opening statement that includes the full name of the deceased, date of death, and age at the time of passing. For example:

• “John Doe, age 75, of [City], passed away peacefully on [Date].”

Provide Biographical Information: Expand on the person’s life story. Mention key life events, achievements, and contributions. You can organize this information chronologically or thematically. For example:

• “Born on [Date] in [Place], John was the eldest child of [Parents’ Names]. He attended [School/University] and went on to have a successful career as [Occupation].”

Highlight Achievements and Interests: Share information about the person’s passions, hobbies, and accomplishments. This adds a personal touch to the obituary. For example:

• “John was an avid gardener, known for his beautiful rose garden, and a dedicated volunteer at [Charity/Community Organization]. He was a lifelong fan of [Favorite Sports Team] and enjoyed attending games with his friends.”

Mention Surviving Family Members: List surviving family members, including the spouse, children, parents, and siblings. Be sure to include their names and relationships to the deceased. For example:

• “John is survived by his loving wife, Jane; his children, [Children’s Names]; grandchildren; and his siblings, [Siblings’ Names].”

Mention Predeceased Family Members: If any immediate family members passed away before the deceased, include their names in the obituary. For example:

• “John was preceded in death by his parents, [Parents’ Names], and his sister, [Sister’s Name].”

Include Funeral or Memorial Service Information: If applicable, provide details about the funeral, memorial service, or any other arrangements. Include the date, time, location, and any special requests regarding flowers or donations in lieu of flowers.

Closing Words: Conclude the obituary with a heartfelt message or sentiment. This can be a reflection on the person’s life, a favorite quote, or a message of gratitude. For example:

• “John will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, humor, and zest for life left a lasting impact on everyone he met.”

Proofread and Edit: Review the obituary for accuracy and clarity. Ensure that all names and details are correct.

Remember that an obituary is a way to honor the life of the deceased and provide information to those who wish to pay their respects. It should be a reflection of the person’s character and the impact they had on the world. At Wing-Bain Funeral Home, we assist all of the families we serve to help them write an obituary that best captures their loved one’s essence.