Obituaries & Messaging
Let It Be Known
Sharing a loved one’s story is one of the most meaningful acts after loss. Whether you’re writing an obituary, creating a social media post, or preparing a eulogy, this section helps you communicate with honesty, care, and respect. These resources explain the differences between types of messages, what to include, and how to find the right words to honor a life well lived.
There’s no single “right” way to remember someone. Writing or speaking about a loved one can be both painful and healing—a way to process loss while celebrating what endures. Whether your remembrance is one paragraph or several pages, what matters most is that it comes from the heart. Every story shared keeps a life remembered.
Death Notices
A death notice is a short public announcement of a passing—usually printed in a newspaper or posted online. It provides essential facts such as name, age, date of death, and service information. It is often a requirement in settling some estates.
Obituaries
A good obituary balances fact and feeling. Start with the essentials—name, age, city, and date of passing—then move into highlights of a life: education, work, service, passions, and values. Mention close family, both living and deceased, and include details about any funeral or memorial. End with a personal touch, such as a favorite quote or request for charitable donations. The same guidance applies if you choose to write your own obituary—a growing trend that allows you to share your story in your own voice and ease the burden on loved ones. Whatever the approach, keep the tone true to the person—formal, warm, humorous, or reflective—and focus on the essence of the life being remembered.
Eulogies
A eulogy is a spoken tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial. The best ones are personal, heartfelt, and brief—usually five to ten minutes. Share a few stories that reveal the person’s character, humor, or kindness, and include lessons or memories that others can relate to. Speak from the heart rather than striving for perfection. Your sincerity will matter more than any script.
Memorial Messaging in the Digital Age
Today, remembrance often extends online. Families may post tributes on social media, create memorial accounts, or host virtual ceremonies. Many funeral homes and memorial sites allow digital guestbooks where others can share photos, messages, or stories. When sharing online, use sensitivity—get permission before posting personal details, and remember that even small gestures, like a favorite photo or quote, can bring comfort to those grieving.
More resources can be found at the Digital Legacy Association‘s website.
Alternatives & Creative Expressions
Not all remembrances have to be written or spoken. Some people create memory books, photo collages, or short videos to celebrate a life. Others plant a tree, dedicate a bench, compose music, or craft something lasting in their loved one’s honor. These creative acts can be deeply healing and serve as living memorials that grow and endure.
Practical Resources & Templates
You don’t have to start from scratch. Free obituary templates and sample death notices are available from trusted sources like Legacy.com, and Nolo.com. Consider downloading a eulogy outline or obituary worksheet to organize your thoughts before writing. Many local newspapers also post submission guidelines and cost information on their websites.
- Legacy.com – Obituary Writing Guide
Step-by-step instructions, sample obituaries, and tone examples. - NOLO.com – How to Write an Obituary or Death Notice
A practical legal and stylistic overview for print and online publication. - Ever Loved – How to Write a Eulogy (With Examples)
A clear, compassionate guide to structuring and delivering a heartfelt eulogy. - Gathered Here – 5 Steps to Writing a Eulogy and ideas for writing or pre-writing your own.
- Local Newspaper Submission Guidelines
Check your newspaper’s website for obituary length limits, pricing, and format rules—usually found under “Obituaries,” “Announcements,” or “Life Events.”