How long should an obituary be?

For online memorials, 200–600 words is common, but write what feels complete. For newspapers, check character limits and costs.

What should I include in service details?

List clear dates, times, and locations—each on its own line—and link to your online memorial so guests can see updates and directions.

Where should I publish the obituary online?

Publish it on your Aeterna Legacy memorial space along with the eulogy, photos, condolences, and service information. Then share the link with family and friends.

How to Write a Respectful, Real Obituary

Q: Do I have to include the cause of death?

No. Sharing cause of death is optional. Choose what feels right for your family and your loved one’s wishes.

(With Examples)

Reading time: ~7 minutes

Start With What Matters

An obituary doesn’t have to be long or perfect. It should be honest, kind, and clear. Think of it as a doorway: it tells people who, when, and where—then offers a glimpse of the life they lived and how to say goodbye.

The Simple Structure (Use This)

Announcement: Full name, age, city, date of death.
Life sketch: A few lines about family, work, service, passions.
Survivors: Closest family (spouse/partner, children, siblings) — optional but common.
Service details: Visitation, service, reception, burial/committal with dates, times, and locations.
Memorial preference: Flowers, donations, or a link to the online memorial.
Photo (optional): A clear, recent image that feels like them.

Tip: If you’re also printing in a newspaper, write the full version first for your online memorial, then shorten for print.

Voice & Tone Tips

Be human. Plain words beat flowery ones. “She loved Sunday pancakes and Cardinals baseball.”
Be accurate. Confirm names, dates, and spellings with another family member.
Be mindful. Cause of death is optional. Share it only if you choose.
Be inclusive. Use names and pronouns your loved one used.

Copy-Ready Templates

Short Notice (good for press or tight deadlines)

[Full Name], [Age], of [City], passed away on [Date]. 
A visitation will be held on [Date/Time] at [Location], followed by [service/reception/burial] at [Location]. 
Details and condolences at: [Your Aeterna Legacy link].

Classic Obituary (balanced length)

[Full Name], [Age], of [City/State], passed away on [Weekday], [Date], surrounded by family.
Born on [Birthdate] in [Birthplace], [First Name] graduated from [School], and spent [X] years as a [Profession/Service]. 
[He/She/They] loved [interests/hobbies], especially [specific detail], and will be remembered for [qualities—kindness, humor, generosity].

[First Name] is survived by [spouse/partner], [children], [grandchildren], and [siblings/important relatives]. 
[He/She/They] was preceded in death by [parents/others].

Visitation will be held on [Date/Time] at [Location]. A service will follow at [Time] at [Location], with burial at [Cemetery]. 
Guests are invited to share memories and condolences at [Aeterna Legacy link]. In lieu of flowers, please consider [charity/cause].

Story-Driven Celebration (more personal)

The world is quieter without [First Name] [Last Name], who passed away on [Date] in [City]. 
[First Name] never missed a sunrise or a chance to cheer on [team/hobby]. 
[He/She/They] taught us that love looks like [small, true example], and that family dinners could fix almost anything.

We’ll gather to celebrate [First Name] on [Date/Time] at [Location]. 
Bring a favorite story, a printed photo for the memory table, or add them to the online memorial: [Aeterna Legacy link]. 
In [his/her/their] honor, wear a splash of [favorite color] if you’d like.

Note: If you need a very short version for a newspaper, keep: name, age, city, date of death, service date/time/place, and a link to the full online memorial. That way people always have the complete information.

Service Details: Clear & Simple

People are often scanning on phones. Put dates, times, and addresses on their own lines. If plans change, update your online memorial so everyone sees the latest information.

Common Questions

How long should it be? For online: write what feels complete (200–600 words is common). For print: check the paper’s character limits and costs.

Do I have to include the cause of death? No. It’s your choice. Many families leave it private.

Where should people send flowers or donations? Add one line with the family’s preference, charity name, or the memorial page link.

Where does this live online? Create a memorial space that holds the obituary, eulogy, photos, videos, condolences, and service info. You can start or compare plan options and see Helpful Tips for first steps.

Next Step: Publish & Share

Post the full obituary to your Aeterna Legacy space, then share the link in group texts or social media. Funeral homes and partners can learn more at our Partners page.

Need a hand? We can help format and post your obituary. Contact us anytime.