How to Write an Obituary: A Simple Guide for Families

Writing an obituary can feel daunting during an already emotional time. At Clearview, we believe that an obituary is more than just a summary of dates and facts—it’s a chance to honor a life lived, preserve memories, and share your loved one’s legacy with others.

To make this process easier, we’ve created a simple, thoughtful guide to help families start writing. Whether you’d like to write the obituary yourself or collaborate with our team, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Start With What Matters Most

We encourage families to reflect on the following questions as a way to get ideas flowing. You can answer as few or as many as you’d like—there’s no right or wrong approach. These responses often become the heart of the obituary.

Personal Reflections

• What three words best describe your loved one?
• What were their biggest passions or hobbies? (e.g., gardening, music, travel, sports, cooking, community service)
• Did they have any notable achievements or life milestones you’d like to highlight? (e.g., military service, career accomplishments, community involvement)
• Did they belong to any organizations, religious groups, or charities? (e.g., church, veterans’ organizations, Rotary Club)
• What was your loved one most known for? (e.g., their humor, generosity, storytelling, adventurous spirit)
• Did they have a favorite saying or words of wisdom they often shared?

Family & Relationships

• Who were the most important people in their life? (This might include family members, close friends, mentors, or chosen family.)
• Did they have any pets that were especially meaningful and should be mentioned?

Special Memories & Anecdotes

• Is there a special memory, story, or funny moment you’d like included? (Personal touches like this make obituaries more meaningful.)
• If they could be remembered for one thing, what would it be?

Final Touches & Preferences

• Would you like a specific cause of passing mentioned?
• Would you like to include details about a memorial or celebration of life?
• Would you like to suggest a charity for donations in their memory?
  If so, which one?
• Would you like to include a closing message from the family? (e.g., “The family wishes to thank [hospice, hospital, or caregivers] for their support.”)

We’re Here to Help

Once you’ve reflected on these questions, you’re welcome to take a first pass at writing the obituary yourself—or simply share your responses with us. At Clearview, we’ll work hand-in-hand with you to shape those memories and messages into a final version you feel proud to share.

Whether we’re holding the pen or just helping guide it, we consider it a privilege to help you honor your loved one.