When someone close to us passes away, it is natural for us to want to remember them and pay our respects. One way to do so is by writing an obituary, a heartfelt tribute that serves as a final farewell. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “obituary” in English, both formally and informally. Whether you’re looking to write a traditional obituary or add a personal touch, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Obituary
Formal language is often used when writing official documents or announcements. If you prefer a more traditional and conventional approach, consider using one of these formal alternatives to say “obituary”:
- Death Notice: A formal announcement of someone’s death, typically including basic information about the deceased, their surviving family members, and funeral arrangements.
- Funeral Announcement: A formal communication providing details about the funeral or memorial service for the deceased.
- Remembrance Notice: A formal notice that commemorates the life of the deceased and invites others to join in remembering them.
- Memorial Tribute: A formal tribute that celebrates the life and accomplishments of the deceased, often including stories, memories, and achievements.
Informal Ways to Say Obituary
If you’re looking for a more personal or casual way to express your condolences and memories, here are some informal alternatives to “obituary” that might better suit your needs:
- Remembering Their Life: A heartfelt reflection on the life and impact of the departed.
- Celebrating Their Legacy: A personal tribute that focuses on the positive impact the deceased had on others.
- In Loving Memory: A personal and intimate remembrance of the departed, often including personal anecdotes and cherished memories.
- Fond Farewell: A warm and affectionate farewell to the departed, capturing their unique qualities and the love they shared.
Tips for Writing an Obituary
Now that you know different ways to refer to an obituary in English, here are some valuable tips to help you write a meaningful and memorable tribute:
- Start with a Personal Touch: Begin the obituary by acknowledging the unique qualities and characteristics of the departed. Share a personal story, an endearing memory, or an anecdote that captures their essence.
- Include Essential Information: Key details to include are the full name of the deceased, their age, date and place of birth, date of passing, and cause of death, if appropriate.
- Highlight Accomplishments and Milestones: Celebrate the various achievements, milestones, and passions that shaped the departed’s life. This could involve professional successes, volunteer work, hobbies, or any other notable contributions.
- Mention Surviving Family Members: Recognize immediate family members, including spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings. You can also mention close friends or beloved pets if they were significant in the deceased’s life.
- Share Funeral or Memorial Details: Provide information about the funeral, memorial service, wake, or any other related events. Include the date, time, and location, as well as any special requests from the family.
- Express Gratitude and Invite Participation: Appreciate the support received from family, friends, and the community. Express gratitude and welcome others to pay their respects, contribute stories, or make donations in memory of the departed.
- Add a Closing Statement: End the obituary with a heartfelt and warm closing statement. This could be a simple farewell, a quote that resonates with the departed, or a final expression of love and admiration.
Examples of Obituaries:
Example 1:
Sarah Thompson peacefully passed away on September 15, 2022, after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for her unwavering strength and infectious laughter, Sarah touched the lives of many with her gentle soul and kind heart. She leaves behind her loving husband, James, and their two children, Emily and Michael. A celebration of Sarah’s life will be held on Friday, September 23, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
Example 2:
Remembering the Life of Matthew Evans: An affectionate husband, a doting father, and a dedicated teacher. Matthew believed in the power of education and spent his life inspiring young minds. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and their three children, Claire, Benjamin, and Olivia. Please join us at Greenwood Funeral Home on Saturday, August 20, at 10 a.m. to celebrate Matthew’s remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Matthew Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Writing an obituary can be a deeply emotional process, but it also serves as a beautiful tribute to the departed. By using the right terms and incorporating personal touches, your obituary can encapsulate the essence of the person you loved and allow others to join in celebrating their life.
Remember, the most important thing is to write from the heart and honor the memories you shared with the departed. May your tribute bring comfort, solace, and love to those who read it.
