What Is an Obituary? A Guide to Honouring a Loved One's Life

When someone close to us passes away, there are many decisions to make alongside the funeral arrangements. One of these is whether to publish an obituary. While many people have heard the term, not everyone knows exactly what an obituary is, what it should include or how it differs from a death notice.

In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about obituaries, helping you create a meaningful tribute that celebrates your loved one's life.

What Is an Obituary?

An obituary is a written tribute that announces a person's death while celebrating their life, achievements and legacy. Unlike a simple death notice, an obituary tells the story of who the person was, highlighting their character, passions, accomplishments and the impact they had on those around them.

Obituaries may be published in local newspapers, online memorial websites or on a funeral director's website, where family and friends can leave messages of condolence, share photographs and donate to chosen charities.

What Is the Difference Between an Obituary and a Death Notice?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they have different purposes.

Death Notice

A death notice is a brief announcement informing people that someone has passed away. It usually includes:

• The person's full name
• Date of death
• Age
• Funeral date, time and location
• Details of family flowers or charitable donations

Obituary

An obituary contains all of the above but also provides a more personal account of the individual's life. It often includes stories, achievements, hobbies, career highlights and the relationships that meant the most to them.

An obituary focuses on celebrating a life rather than simply announcing a death.

Why Write an Obituary?

Writing an obituary can be an important part of the grieving process.

It allows families to:

• Celebrate a loved one's life and achievements
• Share their unique personality and interests
• Inform friends, neighbours and colleagues of their passing
• Preserve memories for future generations
• Invite people to attend the funeral or make charitable donations

For many families, an obituary becomes a lasting tribute that can be revisited for years to come.

What Should an Obituary Include?

There is no right or wrong way to write an obituary, but most include the following information.

Basic Details

Begin with the essential information, including:

• Full name
• Age
• Date of passing
• Place of residence (if appropriate)

A Brief Life Story

Share an overview of their life, such as:

• Where they were born
• Their education or career
• Military service (if applicable)
• Community involvement
• Hobbies and interests
• Achievements they were proud of

Rather than listing facts, try to capture what made them special.

Family Members

Many obituaries mention close family members, including:

• Husband, wife or partner
• Children and grandchildren
• Parents and siblings
• Other loved ones

Families can decide how much personal information they wish to include.

Funeral Information

If appropriate, include details of:

• Funeral date and time
• Location of the service
• Whether everyone is welcome to attend
• Dress preferences
• Charity donations instead of flowers

Tips for Writing a Meaningful Obituary

Writing about someone you've lost can feel emotional, but keeping the focus on their life can help.

Some helpful tips include:

• Write in a warm and respectful tone.
• Share memories that reflect their personality.
• Mention achievements that were meaningful to them.
• Include hobbies, passions and interests.
• Keep the obituary honest and authentic.
• Ask family members to contribute memories if you're unsure what to include.

The most memorable obituaries aren't necessarily the longest, they're the ones that genuinely reflect the person being remembered.

Where Can You Publish an Obituary?

Today, families have several options for sharing an obituary.

These include:

• Local newspapers
• National newspapers
• Online funeral notice websites
• Funeral director websites
• Family memorial websites
• Social media (if appropriate)

Publishing online allows family and friends from across the country, or even around the world, to pay their respects and share memories.

Can a Funeral Director Help?

Yes. Many funeral directors can help families prepare or publish an obituary as part of the funeral arrangements.

At Stephen M. Godber Funeral Directors, we understand that writing about someone you love can be difficult during an emotional time. Our experienced team is here to offer guidance and practical support, helping families create a fitting tribute that honours their loved one's memory with dignity and care. As an independent, family-run funeral director serving Smethwick and the surrounding communities for over 30 years, we are committed to supporting families every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions