Writing an obituary is never easy, but it is a meaningful way to honor and remember a loved one who has passed away. Choosing the right words to convey this loss can be challenging, as you want to capture their essence and impact. This guide will provide you with tips, examples, and variations for expressing someone’s passing in an obituary, whether you prefer a formal or informal approach.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions
Formal obituaries often follow a more traditional and respectful tone. Here are some formal ways to say someone has died in an obituary:
- Passed away: John Doe peacefully passed away on…
- Entered eternal rest: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of…
- Departed this life: Our beloved Jane Smith departed this life on…
- Expired: Sadly, James Brown expired on…
2. Informal Expressions
Informal obituaries provide an opportunity to add a more personal touch and reflect the individual’s personality. Here are some informal ways to say someone has died:
- Passed on: After a life well-lived, Mary Johnson passed on…
- Left us: With heavy hearts, we announce that David Wilson left us…
- Lost their battle: Despite a courageous fight, Susan Anderson sadly lost her battle on…
- Went to be with the angels: Our dear friend, Michael Thomas, went to be with the angels…
3. Regional Variations
Regional variations in expressing someone’s passing exist, each with a unique cultural influence. Here are a few regional variations, but it is important to adapt them based on your own cultural context:
- British English: Passed away, Known as “rest in peace” (RIP)
- African American Vernacular English (AAVE): Passed, Transitioned
- Irish English: Fell asleep in the Lord, Entered eternal life
- Māori (New Zealand): Haere ki te pō (Gone to the night)
4. Tips for Writing Obituaries
Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when writing an obituary:
Keep it personal: Share anecdotes, stories, and special memories that highlight the character and accomplishments of the deceased.
Be concise: While it’s important to be personal, avoid excessive length. Maintain a balance between sharing meaningful details and keeping the obituary concise and focused.
Include important details: Provide basic information such as the person’s full name, date of birth, date of passing, and details regarding any funeral or memorial services.
Consider the audience: Keep in mind who will be reading the obituary. Tailor the tone and style to suit their expectations while still maintaining authenticity.
Highlight accomplishments: Mention the person’s achievements, hobbies, or passions that were significant to them, as well as any notable contributions they made to their community or profession.
Proofread and edit: Double-check your obituary for spelling and grammatical errors. Have a trusted friend or family member review it as well.
5. Examples
Now, let’s look at a couple of examples to illustrate how these expressions can be used in actual obituaries:
Formal example:
John Doe passed away peacefully on November 23, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Informal example:
In the early morning hours of February 10, 2022, Mary Johnson passed on after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Her infectious laughter and kind spirit will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to have known her.
Conclusion
Writing an obituary is a heartfelt way to pay tribute to someone who has passed away. By using appropriate expressions, whether formal or informal, you can effectively convey the loss while capturing the essence of your loved one. Remember to tailor your words to the audience and add personal touches that truly make the obituary a fitting tribute to their life. Take comfort in knowing that your words will help keep their memory alive.
