3 examples for writing an obituary

It's painful to lose someone near and dear. Beyond the funeral and other arrangements, an obituary notice needs to be published in newspapers. This informs friends and family members about the death, which will allow them to pay homage to their life. You may not always be in the proper frame of mind to write an effective obituary. The following examples serve as a guideline based on the type of notice that you wish to publish.

Theresa Marie Smith (23.02.1972 - 29.05.2014)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the untimely death of our mother, Theresa Marie Smith. She passed away at the General Wellness Hospital after sustaining critical injuries in a car accident. She leaves behind her husband John, son Michael and daughter Elizabeth.

A funeral service will be held for her on 31st May at the Anglican Church, Edmonton, followed by the burial. Family, friends and well-wishers are invited to join us in praying for her soul, and thereafter to a small get-together in the church hall to share fond memories of our dear mum.

John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

In ever loving memory of Theresa Marie Smith, who left this earth on May 29, 2014 to enter her heavenly abode. While you have left an empty place in our hearts, you have also provided us with a lifetime of memories.

May your soul rest in eternal peace.

Mrs. Theresa Marie Smith, an active social worker in Edmonton for the past 15 years, passed away on May 29, aged 42. She leaves behind her beloved husband John, and their children Michael and Elizabeth.

Theresa had a cheerful personality, and all who crossed her path were touched by her optimism and generosity. She often visited the local orphanages and dedicated her time to uplifting the lives of the lesser privileged. She was involved in a tragic car accident and breathed her last in her hospital bed, with her devoted family by her side.

A memorial service will be held in Theresa's honour on May 31st at the Anglican Church, Edmonton. Everyone who knew this wonderful woman is invited to attend and share their memories.

Obituary notices have many styles, but the mandatory information within them is the same — the full name and date of death, any details of living immediate family and the time of the funeral or memorial service. Whether you wish to write a regular death announcement, a prayer for the departed soul or a memorial note, the examples in this article will come to your aid at your time of loss.