Writing an obituary is one of the most challenging tasks you'll face during loss. There is immense pressure to capture a loved one's life in just a few words.
Whether you're looking for short obituary examples, simple obituary templates, or more personalized messages, we’ll walk you through how to write an obituary that does justice to your loved one’s life and legacy.
You are trying to find a way to honor your loved one's memory while addressing the practical need to inform others of their passing. We understand you and that feeling, and we have some obituary examples to guide you.
How To Write an Obituary
Here’s a structured approach to help you come up with a meaningful and informative tribute:
Key elements to include
- Full name and age: Clearly state the person’s full name and age.
- Date of birth and death: Include the exact dates of birth and death. This can be followed by a brief mention of the cause of death, if appropriate.
For example, "Johnathan Edward Davis, 76, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on June 14, 2024, at his home in Springfield, surrounded by family."
- Place of birth and residence: Indicate their hometown and where they lived.
- Survived by: List immediate family members and significant others.
For example, "John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Margaret; his children, Michael and Sarah; and his three beloved grandchildren, Emily, Nathan, and Claire."
- Life highlights: Briefly summarize key life events, achievements, and occupations.
For instance, “He went on to have a distinguished career as a civil engineer, working on projects that improved infrastructure across the state."
- Personal qualities: Share the deceased's character, personality, and values.
For example, “John was an avid gardener and spent his weekends tending to his prize-winning roses. He was also a passionate supporter of local environmental causes, volunteering his time to plant trees and clean up community parks."
- Memorial or funeral arrangements: Provide details about the services, including date, time, and location.
- Special messages or requests: This can include requests for donations to a favorite charity instead of flowers or a special message to those who knew the deceased.
For example, “The family would like to express their gratitude to the hospice care team for their compassion and support during John's final days."
Tips for writing a heartfelt tribute
- Be concise and clear: While it's important to include essential details, strive for brevity and clarity in your writing. Write from the heart. Avoid trying to impress with elaborate phrases — your genuine feelings will resonate more deeply.
- Use vivid language: Paint a picture of your loved one’s life through descriptive words and phrases.
- Share personal stories: Incorporate anecdotes and memories to bring the obituary to life. Consider talking about their achievements as well.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure accuracy and avoid any errors in spelling or grammar.
19 Obituary Examples
These are some obituary examples for family members; they are entirely fictional and have been created for illustrative purposes only. Our goal is to inspire and guide you as you write something of your own.
Any resemblance to real persons, living or deceased, is purely coincidental. Please use these examples as a starting point to craft a personalized and meaningful tribute that truly captures the essence of your loved one’s life and legacy.
1. Obituary for a mother
Olivia Grace Winters, 72, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 3, 1952, in Maplewood, Olivia was the heart and soul of her family, known for her compassion and infectious laughter.
A devoted mother of three and grandmother of six, Olivia's greatest joy came from nurturing her family. Her famous Sunday dinners were a weekly tradition that brought together not just family, but friends and neighbors as well. Olivia's homemade lasagna was legendary, and she delighted in passing down her culinary secrets to her grandchildren.
Beyond her role as a mother, Olivia was an active volunteer at the local animal shelter, where she spent countless hours caring for abandoned pets. Her love for animals was matched only by her passion for gardening, and her vibrant flower beds were the envy of the neighborhood.
Olivia is survived by her husband of 50 years, Richard, their children Emily, Thomas, and Sarah, and six grandchildren. A celebration of Olivia's life will be held on September 18 at Maplewood Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Maplewood Animal Shelter in Olivia's memory.
2. Obituary for a father
Robert "Bob" Alexander Mitchell, 68, a respected engineer and beloved father, passed away on October 5, 2024, after a brief illness. Born on July 12, 1956, in Glendale, Bob's life was marked by innovation, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to his family.
As a civil engineer, Bob played a crucial role in designing sustainable infrastructure for developing communities. His work on water purification systems brought clean water to thousands, earning him the Global Engineering Impact Award in 2018. Despite his professional success, Bob always said his greatest achievement was raising his three children.
Known for his patience and wisdom, Bob was a natural mentor. He coached Little League for 15 years and founded a STEM program for underprivileged youth. At home, he was famous for his "life lessons disguised as DIY projects," teaching his children valuable skills while building everything from birdhouses to go-karts.
Bob is survived by his wife of 40 years, Carol, their children Jennifer, Mark, and Lisa, and four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on October 12 at Glendale Civic Center. The family suggests donations to the Robert Mitchell STEM Scholarship Fund to continue Bob's legacy of nurturing young minds.
3. Obituary for a spouse
Sarah Elizabeth Morales, 65, beloved wife, mother, and community activist, passed away on November 18, 2024, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. Born on April 22, 1959, in Springville, Sarah's life was a testament to the power of love, partnership, and dedication to social justice.
Sarah and her husband, Michael, were inseparable for 43 years, their love story beginning in college where they bonded over shared dreams of making the world a better place. Together, they founded the Springville Youth Empowerment Center, providing after-school programs and mentorship to at-risk teens. Their work transformed countless young lives and earned them the Governor's Community Service Award in 2015.
An avid hiker, Sarah explored trails across the country with Michael, and their annual trip to Yosemite was a cherished tradition. At home, they were known for their lively dinner parties, where Sarah's gourmet cooking and Michael's storytelling created unforgettable evenings for friends and family.
Sarah is survived by her devoted husband Michael, their twins Alex and Sophia, and a community that will deeply miss her compassionate spirit. A celebration of Sarah's life will be held on November 25 at Springville Park, a place she loved.
4. Obituary for a child
Ethan James Cooper, 8, our bright-eyed dreamer and superhero enthusiast, passed away on December 3, 2024, after a courageous battle with leukemia. Born on February 15, 2016, in Sunnydale, Ethan packed a lifetime of love and laughter into his short years.
Known for his infectious giggle and boundless imagination, Ethan had a unique ability to brighten even the gloomiest days. His favorite pastime was creating elaborate superhero stories, often casting his friends and family as characters in his fantastical adventures. Ethan's kindness was legendary among his second-grade classmates, who fondly remember how he always shared his coveted dinosaur-shaped cookies.
Ethan is survived by his parents, Laura and David, his little sister Emma, and a community of friends whose lives he touched deeply. A celebration of Ethan's life, filled with his favorite superhero themes, will be held on December 10 at Sunnydale Elementary School. The family requests that attendees wear bright colors to honor Ethan's vibrant spirit. Instead of flowers, donations can be made to the Children's Cancer Research Fund.
5. Obituary for a brother
Marcus Anthony Rodriguez, 45, adventurer, entrepreneur, and beloved brother, died unexpectedly on January 8, 2025, while on a hiking expedition in the Andes. Born on September 30, 1979, in San Diego, Marcus lived life to the fullest, inspiring those around him to push their boundaries and chase their dreams.
As the founder of "Eco Treks," an eco-friendly adventure travel company, Marcus combined his passion for nature with his business acumen. His innovative approach to sustainable tourism earned him the Green Business Award in 2023. But to his siblings, Marcus was simply their fearless big brother, always ready with a crazy idea or a word of encouragement.
Marcus's love for adrenaline was matched only by his dedication to his family. His annual "Sibling Adventure Week" became a cherished tradition, where he introduced his brothers and sisters to everything from surfing to rock climbing.
Marcus is survived by his parents, Elena and Jorge, his siblings Lisa, Carlos, and Maria, and numerous nieces and nephews who adored their "Uncle Daredevil." A celebration of Marcus's life will be held on January 20 at La Jolla Shores Beach, his favorite spot, in honor of his love for the outdoors.
6. Obituary for a sister
Dr. Amelia Rose Kensington, 38, a brilliant neuroscientist and cherished sister, passed away on February 14, 2025. Born on November 12, 1986, in Boston, Amelia's insatiable curiosity and compassionate nature guided her remarkable life and career.
A pioneer in the field of neuroplasticity, Amelia's groundbreaking research offered new hope for patients with traumatic brain injuries. Her work, published in several prestigious scientific journals, earned her the Young Scientist of the Year award in 2022. However, to her siblings, Amelia was far more than her academic achievements — she was their confidante, cheerleader, and occasional partner-in-mischief.
Amelia is survived by her parents, Margaret and William, her siblings Thomas and Sophie, and her beloved cat, Einstein. A memorial service celebrating Amelia's life and contributions to science will be held on February 22 at the Boston Museum of Science. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Autoimmune Research Foundation, a cause close to Amelia's heart.
7. Obituary for a grandparent
Harold "Pop-Pop" Franklin Wilkins, 92, World War II veteran, master carpenter, and beloved grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 3, 2025. Born on June 18, 1932, in Oakridge, his life stood for resilience, craftsmanship, and the power of a good story.
After serving in the Navy during WWII, Harold returned home to start a successful carpentry business. His skilled hands built half the porches in Oakridge, but his true masterpieces were the intricate dollhouses he crafted for each of his grandchildren. Harold's workshop was a magical place where sawdust and stories intermingled, and where he patiently taught his grandkids the value of hard work and precision.
Known for his colorful suspenders and even more colorful language, Harold was a fixture at the local diner, where he held court every morning over coffee and blueberry pancakes. His annual Fourth of July barbecues were legendary, featuring his secret recipe sauce and tales from his Navy days that grew taller with each retelling.
Harold is survived by his wife of 70 years, Edith, their three children, Robert, Susan, and James, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. A celebration of Harold's life will be held on March 10 at Oakridge Community Center. The family suggests bringing a funny story to share, as Pop-Pop would have wanted laughter more than tears.
8. Obituary for an aunt or uncle
Lucinda "Aunt Lu" Ramirez, 68, a cherished aunt and guiding light to her family, passed away on April 22, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on October 31, 1956, in Santa Fe, Lu's life was a masterclass in embracing joy and nurturing creativity in others.
She had an uncanny ability to listen without judgment, offering sage advice that helped her nieces and nephews get through the challenges of growing up. Her annual "Dream Big" workshops, where she helped each child visualize and plan for their future, became a cherished family tradition.
Lu is survived by her siblings, Maria and Carlos, her seven nieces and nephews, and the countless young lives she touched through her volunteer work at the local youth center. A celebration of Lu's life and the love she shared will be held on May 1 at Santa Fe Community Park. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the youth art programs Lu passionately supported, ensuring her legacy of creativity and guidance lives on.
9. Obituary for a cousin
Daniel "Danny" Kwon, 42, beloved cousin, family peacemaker, and tech entrepreneur, passed away on May 15, 2025, after a brief illness. Born on August 8, 1982, in Chicago, Danny was the glue that held the extended Kwon family together, bridging generations with his warmth and wit.
As the oldest cousin in a sprawling Korean-American family, Danny took his role as "First Cousin" seriously, organizing annual family reunions that became legendary for their mix of traditional Korean games and American barbecue. His famous "Kimchi Burger" became a symbol of the cultural fusion Danny effortlessly embodied.
Danny's talent for bringing people together extended beyond family gatherings. He founded "ConnectKin," a popular app designed to help families stay connected across distances, inspired by his own experiences growing up in a close-knit but geographically scattered family.
Danny is survived by his parents, John and Mira, his sister Jina, and a large extended family, including 15 cousins who looked up to him as a brother and role model. A celebration of Danny's life will be held on May 22 at Lincoln Park, where the family spent countless summer picnics.
10. Obituary for a close friend
Alexis "Lex" Rivera, 36, adventurous spirit, loyal friend, and environmental lawyer, passed away on June 8, 2025, in a hiking accident. Born on February 14, 1989, in Portland, Lex lived a life full of passion, purpose, and unwavering friendship.
Lex's dedication to environmental causes inspired the community around her. Her recent victory in a landmark climate change case was a moment of pride for everyone who knew her.
Lex is survived by her parents, Rosa and Miguel, her brother Carlos, and a wide circle of friends who became family. A celebration of Lex's vibrant life will be held on June 15 at Forest Park, her favorite spot for Sunday hikes. Please consider donating to the Environmental Defense Fund to continue the fight that meant so much to Lex.
11. Obituary for a colleague or mentor
Dr. Samuel "Sam" Nguyen, 58, renowned physicist, inspirational mentor, and beloved colleague, passed away on July 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on November 5, 1966, in Houston, Sam's brilliant mind and generous spirit left an indelible mark on the scientific community and countless lives he touched.
As the lead researcher at the Quantum Innovations Lab, Sam's groundbreaking work in quantum computing pushed the boundaries of what we thought possible. His 2021 paper on quantum entanglement revolutionized the field and earned him the prestigious Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.
Sam's ability to explain complex concepts with clarity and enthusiasm made him a sought-after speaker and science communicator. His TED Talk, "Quantum Leaps in Everyday Life," has inspired millions to see the wonder in the world around them.
Sam is survived by his wife, Laura, their two children, Mia and Alex, and a scientific community that will deeply miss his brilliance and warmth. A memorial symposium celebrating Sam's contributions to physics and education will be held on August 1 at the University Science Center.
12. Obituary for a neighbor
Martha "Marty" O'Brien, 79, beloved neighbor and unofficial mayor of Elm Street, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025. Born on April 3, 1946, in the very house she lived in her entire life, Marty was the heartbeat of our close-knit community for over seven decades.
Known for her ever-present smile and the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting from her kitchen, Marty was the first to welcome new families to the neighborhood with her famous "Welcome Wagon" basket. Her porch, adorned with cheerful flowers and comfortable rocking chairs, became the unofficial gathering spot for neighbors to share stories, seek advice, or simply enjoy a moment of calm.
Marty's impact on our community went far beyond her delicious baked goods. As the founder of the Elm Street Community Garden, she brought neighbors together to grow fresh produce, fostering friendships alongside tomatoes and zucchinis. Her "Young Gardeners" program introduced countless children to the joys of planting and harvesting, instilling a love for nature in our youngest residents.
Marty is survived by her cat Mr. Whiskers, her "adopted" family of neighbors, and the thriving community she nurtured. A celebration of Marty's life will be held on August 20 in the Elm Street Community Garden. In place of flowers, the neighborhood association suggests planting a tree or flower in your yard in Marty's memory to keep her spirit of growth and beauty alive in our community.
13. Obituary for a coach
John "Coach" Donovan, 62, a beloved basketball coach and youth mentor, passed away suddenly on September 5, 2025. Born on March 15, 1963, in Springfield, Coach Donovan dedicated his life to shaping young athletes both on and off the court.
For 35 years, Coach Donovan led the Springfield High Wildcats, transforming a struggling program into a powerhouse of both athletic and academic excellence. His innovative "Books and Baskets" initiative, which tied court time to academic performance, saw the team's graduation rates soar alongside their trophy count.
Coach Donovan is survived by his wife Sarah, their three children, and generations of Wildcats, who will carry his lessons forward. A memorial service will be held in the Springfield High gym on September 12.
14. Obituary for a small business owner
Maria Elena Cortez, 55, vibrant entrepreneur and heart of Main Street, passed away on October 18, 2025, after a long illness. Born on July 7, 1970, in Millbrook, Maria transformed her passion for books into "Cortez Corner," the cozy bookstore that became our town's cultural hub.
Maria's generosity extended beyond her store. She spearheaded the annual "Books for All" drive, ensuring every child in Millbrook had access to reading materials. Her shop often doubled as an informal career counseling center, where she helped countless high school students craft their first resumes.
Maria is survived by her partner Alex, their daughter Sophia, and a community of readers she nurtured. A celebration of Maria's life will be held on October 25 at the Millbrook Community Center. Attendees are encouraged to bring a favorite book to donate to the local library in Maria's honor.
15. Obituary for a volunteer firefighter
Thomas "Tommy" Chen, 41, a dedicated volunteer firefighter and local hero, lost his life in the line of duty on November 30, 2025. Born on August 22, 1984, in Oakville, Tommy exemplified the spirit of community service and selfless bravery.
By day, Tommy worked as an elementary school teacher, beloved by students for his patience and humor. But for 15 years, he also answered the call to protect our community as a volunteer firefighter. Tommy's quick thinking and courage saved countless lives and homes.
Tommy was instrumental in developing the department's fire safety education program, combining his teaching skills with his firefighting knowledge to create engaging lessons for school children. His annual "Fire Safety Fun Day" became a much-anticipated event, making important safety information accessible and memorable for kids and adults alike.
Tommy is survived by his wife Lisa, their twins Emma and Ethan, and his brothers and sisters in the Oakville Volunteer Fire Department. A full honors funeral service will be held on December 7 at Oakville Central Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
16. Obituary for a community activist
Gloria "Glo" Washington, 68, a tireless advocate for social justice and pillar of the Riverside community, passed away on January 15, 2026. Born on September 8, 1957, in Riverside, Glo dedicated her life to fighting for equality and empowering the voiceless.
As the founder of Riverside United for Change, Glo spearheaded numerous initiatives that transformed our city. Her efforts led to the establishment of the city's first homeless shelter, the implementation of a successful youth mentorship program, and the passage of local legislation protecting workers' rights.
Glo's powerful voice and unwavering commitment inspired generations of activists. Her famous "Stand Up Sundays" in Riverside Park became a weekly gathering for community members to discuss local issues and plan actions. Many current city leaders credit Glo's mentorship as the catalyst for their involvement in public service.
Glo is survived by her life partner, James, their daughter Keisha, and a community that will deeply miss her leadership and compassion. A memorial rally celebrating Glo's life and continuing her mission will be held on January 22 at Riverside Park.
17. Obituary for a foster parent
Evelyn "Mama E" Thornton, 71, beloved foster mother and champion for children, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026. Born on June 5, 1954, in Millbrook, Evelyn opened her heart and home to over 50 foster children during her lifetime.
For three decades, Mama E's house on Willow Lane was a sanctuary for children in need. Her patience, understanding, and unconditional love provided a stable foundation for kids facing unimaginable challenges. Evelyn had a knack for finding and nurturing each child's unique talents, whether it was through art, sports, or academics.
As a fierce advocate for foster children, Evelyn worked tirelessly to improve the foster care system. She founded the "Forever Families" support group, helping foster and adoptive families navigate the complexities of the system while providing a network of love and understanding.
Evelyn is survived by her husband George, their two biological children, Sarah and Michael, and a large extended family of foster and adopted children whose lives she touched. A celebration of Mama E's life will be held on March 22 at Millbrook Community Center. In her honor, the family requests donations to the local foster care support services.
18. Obituary for a religious leader
Rabbi David Levi, 68, a respected spiritual leader and interfaith bridge-builder, passed away on April 3, 2026. Born on October 12, 1957, in Brooklyn, Rabbi Levi served as the head of Temple Beth Shalom for over 30 years, touching countless lives with his wisdom, compassion, and infectious sense of humor.
Known for his progressive interpretation of Jewish teachings, Rabbi Levi made Temple Beth Shalom a welcoming space for all, regardless of background or belief. His popular "Ask the Rabbi" sessions tackled tough questions with honesty and insight, making ancient wisdom relevant to modern life.
Rabbi Levi was a pillar of the interfaith community, co-founding the Harmony Council which brought together leaders from various religions to promote understanding and cooperation. His annual Interfaith Thanksgiving service became a beloved tradition, uniting the community in gratitude and mutual respect.
A passionate advocate for social justice, Rabbi Levi was often seen on the front lines of protests against discrimination and inequality. He instilled in his congregation the importance of Tikkun Olam — repairing the world — leading initiatives from food drives to refugee support programs.
Rabbi Levi is survived by his wife Sarah, their three children, Rebecca, Joshua, and Rachel, and six grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on April 10 at Temple Beth Shalom. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Rabbi David Levi Interfaith Scholarship Fund.
19. Obituary for a roommate
Alex Chen, 29, a cherished friend, brilliant scientist, and the world's best roommate, passed away in a car accident on May 20, 2026. Born on February 8, 1997, in San Francisco, Alex filled our shared apartment with laughter, intellectual discussions, and occasionally questionable culinary experiments for the past five years.
A rising star in the field of renewable energy, Alex's research on improving solar cell efficiency held the promise of making clean energy more accessible worldwide. An avid rock climber, Alex's enthusiasm for the sport was contagious, gradually coaxing even the most height-averse of our friend group onto the climbing wall. Alex's motto, "Life's too short not to reach new heights," applied both literally and metaphorically.
Alex is survived by their parents Li and Grace Chen, their younger sister Mei, and a wide circle of friends who became family. A celebration of Alex's life will be held on May 27 at Golden Gate Park, Alex's favorite spot for weekend picnics and stargazing.
Personalize the Obituary
While the structure of an obituary provides a framework, it's the personal touches that truly make it a heartfelt tribute. By infusing the obituary with unique details and anecdotes, you can capture the essence of the individual and create a lasting memory.
Every relationship is special, and an obituary should reflect that individuality.
For example, when writing about a grandparent, you might focus on their wisdom, the family traditions they passed down, or the warmth they brought to family gatherings. For a friend, you might highlight shared adventures, their loyalty, or the support they provided during tough times.
Consider these tips for personalizing your tribute:
- Focus on the relationship: Highlight the unique bond you shared with the departed. Tailor the language and details to reflect that specific relationship.
- Share personal anecdotes: Incorporate stories that showcase their personality and humor. Did they have a signature phrase, a favorite pastime, or a unique quirk?
- Be expressive: Paint a picture of their life using descriptive words and phrases.
- Reflect their passions: Whether they were passionate about cooking, gardening, traveling, or volunteering, including these details makes the obituary feel more personal and complete.
For example, “Sarah’s love for baking was evident in her famous chocolate chip cookies, which she shared generously with neighbors and friends.”
- Include favorite quotes or sayings: Capture their essence through their own words.
Examples of personalized messages and anecdotes
Here are some simple obituary examples (we’ve picked out the lines that help personalize the piece):
- For a parent: Whether it was coaching little league games, building treehouses, or offering sage advice, (name)’s greatest joy was being a dad. His wisdom and unwavering patience made him the rock of his family.
His Saturday morning pancake breakfasts will be fondly remembered by his children and grandchildren, who could always count on him for a listening ear and a warm hug.
- For a friend: Known for her infectious laughter and adventurous spirit, she was always the first to organize a spontaneous road trip or a weekend camping getaway. (Name) had a way of making everyone feel included, whether it was through her impromptu dinner parties or her thoughtful check-ins.
Her friends will miss her dearly, especially her knack for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.
- For a grandmother: She had a special bond with her grandchildren, who fondly remember the countless afternoons spent in her cozy kitchen, baking cookies and listening to stories from her childhood. Barbara’s love of music was a lifelong passion, and she could often be found playing her piano, filling the house with the melodies of her favorite hymns.
Celebrate a Life With Dignity and Respect
At Meadow, we understand the profound responsibility that comes with honoring the life of a loved one. Our promise is to support and guide you through every step of the process with compassion, care, and respect.
Whether you’re planning a memorial, arranging a cremation, or simply looking for guidance during a difficult time, Meadow is here to help you create a tribute that truly reflects the life and legacy of your loved one.
Our dedicated team works closely with families to ensure that each service is personalized to meet your specific needs and wishes. From helping you choose the right options to handling all the details, we are committed to making this process as smooth and comforting as possible.
At Meadow, we are honored to help you celebrate a life with dignity and respect, preserving memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
- We’re with you at every step. A brief call allows us to understand your needs and preferences. We'll then pair you with a professional memorial planner who will be your dedicated guide throughout the process.
- We focus on what matters. Our planner will handle all the logistics, from venue selection to vendor coordination, so you can focus on what matters most — spending time with loved ones.
- We take care of the details. Your dedicated planner will manage everything from food and flowers, sending invitations, booking catering, and managing your photo slideshow for the event.
- We customize. Tell us about your loved one's personality and interests. We create unique events to reflect their life for a truly personal celebration.
Let us help you create a beautiful and lasting tribute to your loved one.
Explore our personalized memorial services.
