Obituary Examples
Three complete, well-written examples — and what makes each one work. When you're ready, the free templates turn any of these structures into your own.
Standard example
Margaret "Peggy" Anne Whitfield, 84, of Cedar Falls, passed away peacefully on March 3, surrounded by her family. Born in 1941 to Harold and Ruth Jensen, Peggy graduated from Cedar Falls High and married her sweetheart, Donald Whitfield, in 1961. For 31 years she taught second grade at Lincoln Elementary, where three generations of students learned cursive and kindness in equal measure. She loved her garden, her bridge club, and above all a full kitchen table. Peggy is survived by her children Susan (Mark) and David (Karen), five grandchildren, and her sister Joan. She was preceded in death by Donald, her husband of 58 years. Services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lincoln Elementary library fund.
Why it works: Notice the specifics: 'cursive and kindness,' the bridge club, 58 years. Specific details are what make an obituary feel like the person.
Short example
Robert "Bob" Delaney, 77, of Mercy Hill, died April 12. A plumber for 45 years, he never once missed a Sunday roast or a chance to back the Tigers. Survived by his wife Carol, children Michael and Lisa, and four grandchildren. Service 2 p.m. Friday at St. Brigid's. Donations to the Heart Foundation appreciated.
Why it works: Fifty-eight words, nothing missing. The service details survive every cut — that's what readers act on.
Celebration of life example
With full hearts we announce that Rosa Marie Calvano — Nonna Rosa to half the neighborhood — died on June 2, aged 91. Rosa filled nine decades with tomato vines, opera on the radio, and a sauce recipe she took, laughing, to the grave. Rather than a funeral, the family invites everyone Rosa ever fed — which is everyone — to a celebration of life on June 21 at 1 p.m. at Marconi Hall. Wear color, bring a story, and expect to leave full. She leaves five children, fourteen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and instructions to look after each other. Plant a tomato for Rosa.
Why it works: The voice matches the woman. If they were joyful, the announcement can be too; readers take their emotional cue from your tone.