Need Help Writing an Obituary?
The layout of an obituary is usually fairly standard but some newspapers may have a format you must use, others are far more relaxed. There are no hard and fast rules about what to say but this guide should give you a starting point and make sure nothing is missed.Always start with the surname first as notices nearly always appear in alphabetical order, followed by the first name(s). You may also like to include a maiden name, nick name or an otherwise. The area where the person came from is a good idea if you are not using a local paper.
We would never suggest putting the whole address or even the road name in the obituary, just the area. Next would come the date of death and the age, followed then by any family you would like to mention.
The funeral arrangements are next, firstly the venue, then the day and date and then the time of the service. We do not recommend putting in details of the reception afterwards, as it has been known for people to attend hoping for free food and drink. It is much better to announce this at the service itself.
If you would prefer donations instead of flowers, it's a good idea to mention it in the obituary. We will happily collect, collate and forward to the benefitting charity donations on your behalf.
Lastly, you might want to put a verse or poem which reflects how you feel. There are some examples here. This is how your finished notice might look:
JONES David Alexander (Jonesy) passed away January 14th 2009, aged 75 years. Dearly loved husband of Mabel. Devoted father to Sarah, Chloe and Samuel. A cherished grandfather and great grandfather. Funeral service at Yardley Crematorium on Thursday, January 21st at 3 30 p.m. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu for 'Marie Curie Cancer Care' c/o Alexander Funerals, 67 Warwick Road, Solihull. B92 7HP.
We would never suggest putting the whole address or even the road name in the obituary, just the area. Next would come the date of death and the age, followed then by any family you would like to mention.
The funeral arrangements are next, firstly the venue, then the day and date and then the time of the service. We do not recommend putting in details of the reception afterwards, as it has been known for people to attend hoping for free food and drink. It is much better to announce this at the service itself.
If you would prefer donations instead of flowers, it's a good idea to mention it in the obituary. We will happily collect, collate and forward to the benefitting charity donations on your behalf.
Lastly, you might want to put a verse or poem which reflects how you feel. There are some examples here. This is how your finished notice might look:
JONES David Alexander (Jonesy) passed away January 14th 2009, aged 75 years. Dearly loved husband of Mabel. Devoted father to Sarah, Chloe and Samuel. A cherished grandfather and great grandfather. Funeral service at Yardley Crematorium on Thursday, January 21st at 3 30 p.m. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu for 'Marie Curie Cancer Care' c/o Alexander Funerals, 67 Warwick Road, Solihull. B92 7HP.
