Writing an obituary is more than just summarizing a person’s life; it’s about capturing the essence of who they were, the impact they had on the people around them, and their unique journey. The question “who writes obituaries?” might seem straightforward, but the answer is surprisingly complex. From family members to professionals, several people can take on this important task, each bringing their own perspective and approach.
**Understanding the Purpose of Obituaries**
Obituaries serve as a public announcement of a person’s death and a way to share the details of their life with the world. They offer a space to celebrate achievements, share memories, and provide comfort to those grieving. In essence, obituaries honor the deceased while informing the community about their passing.
**The Historical Context of Obituaries**
Obituaries have been around for centuries, evolving from brief death notices in local newspapers to more elaborate and personal tributes. In the past, they were often written by clergy or community leaders, but today, the responsibility can fall to various individuals or professionals.
**Who Writes Obituaries?**
**Family Members and Friends**
Often, those closest to the deceased take on the responsibility of writing the obituary. Family members and friends are in a unique position to share intimate stories, personal anecdotes, and details that truly capture the essence of their loved one. Their writing tends to be heartfelt, offering a deeply personal perspective.
**Professional Writers and Journalists**
In some cases, families may hire professional writers or journalists to craft an obituary. These professionals bring expertise in writing and storytelling, ensuring the obituary is well-written and engaging. Their objective approach can help strike the right balance between fact and emotion.
**Funeral Directors**
Funeral directors often assist families in writing obituaries as part of their services. They have experience with the format and can guide families through the process, helping to ensure that all necessary information is included and that the obituary is suitable for publication.
**Obituary Services**
There are also specialized services dedicated to writing obituaries. These companies employ writers who are skilled in creating meaningful tributes. They work closely with families to gather information and produce a well-crafted obituary that honors the deceased’s life.
**Crafting a Meaningful Obituary**
**Gathering Essential Information**
The first step in writing an obituary is gathering all the essential details about the deceased’s life. This includes basic information like their full name, date of birth, and date of death, as well as details about their family, career, achievements, and hobbies. It’s important to also include any specific information that the family wants to highlight, such as the person’s values, passions, or favorite memories.
**Structuring the Obituary**
An obituary typically follows a standard structure: it begins with the announcement of the death, followed by a summary of the person’s life, and ends with information about the funeral or memorial service. However, the structure can be flexible, allowing for personalization. Some obituaries include quotes, poems, or messages from loved ones.
**Writing with Sensitivity**
Writing an obituary requires sensitivity, especially when discussing the cause of death or other potentially delicate topics. It’s important to be respectful and considerate of the family’s wishes and the emotions of those reading the obituary.
**Adding Personal Touches**
Personal touches can make an obituary truly special. Including anecdotes, favorite quotes, or even humorous stories can paint a vivid picture of the deceased’s personality. These details help make the obituary more relatable and memorable for those who knew the person.
**The Importance of Accuracy in Obituaries**
Accuracy is crucial in an obituary, as errors can cause distress for the family and lead to misinformation. It’s important to double-check all facts, including names, dates, and locations, to ensure that the obituary is a reliable record of the person’s life.
**Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Obituaries**
**Overlooking Important Details**
It’s easy to overlook certain details when writing an obituary, especially during an emotional time. However, it’s important to include all necessary information, such as the names of surviving family members, details of the funeral service, and any requests for donations in lieu of flowers.
**Using Clichés**
While it’s tempting to use common phrases like “passed away peacefully,” it’s better to use specific language that truly reflects the person’s life and character. Avoiding clichés helps make the obituary more unique and personal.
**Failing to Proofread**
Proofreading is essential to catch any typos, grammatical errors, or factual inaccuracies. A well-proofread obituary not only looks professional but also shows respect for the deceased and their family.
**Publishing the Obituary**
**Choosing the Right Platform**
When it comes to publishing the obituary, there are several options to consider. Traditional newspapers, online memorial websites, and social media platforms all offer different ways to share the obituary with the community. It’s important to choose a platform that reaches the intended audience and fits the family’s preferences.
**Understanding Publication Costs**
Publishing an obituary in a newspaper or online can come with a cost, depending on the length of the obituary and the platform used. Some newspapers charge by the word, while others offer packages that include online publication. Understanding these costs ahead of time can help families make informed decisions.
**Online vs. Print Obituaries**
Online obituaries offer more flexibility and can reach a wider audience than print obituaries. They often allow for multimedia elements like photos, videos, and guestbooks where people can leave messages of condolence. However, print obituaries have a certain traditional appeal and can be saved as a physical keepsake.
**Conclusion**
Writing an obituary is both an art and a responsibility. Whether it’s a family member, a professional writer, or a funeral director, the person who writes the obituary plays a key role in honoring the life of the deceased. By crafting a thoughtful and accurate tribute, they help preserve the memory of the person for future generations.
**FAQs**
1. **Who is typically responsible for writing an obituary?**
The responsibility of writing an obituary often falls on family members or friends, but it can also be handled by professional writers, journalists, funeral directors, or specialized obituary services.
2. **What should be included in an obituary?**
An obituary should include the deceased’s full name, date of birth and death, key details about their life, names of surviving family members, and information about the funeral or memorial service.
3. **Can obituaries be published online?**
Yes, obituaries can be published online on various platforms, including newspaper websites, online memorial sites, and social media. Online obituaries often allow for additional features like photos, videos, and guestbooks.
4. **What are common mistakes to avoid when writing an obituary?**
Common mistakes include overlooking important details, using clichés, and failing to proofread for typos or inaccuracies. It’s important to ensure that the obituary is both accurate and well-written.
5. **How much does it cost to publish an obituary?**
The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the platform and the length of the obituary. Newspapers often charge by the word, while online platforms may offer different pricing options.
