Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and writing an obituary can be a challenging task. One important element to include in an obituary is the mention of the surviving family members. This typically takes the form of a section titled “Survived By.” Here, we will guide you on how to express this information in both formal and informal ways. While there may be some regional variations, we will focus primarily on standard practices. Below are some tips, examples, and guidelines to help you through this process.
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Formal Ways to Include “Survived By”
When writing a formal obituary, it is essential to maintain a respectful and professional tone. Here are some suggestions on how to express the surviving family members:
- Begin the “Survived By” section with a strong and compassionate sentence, such as “John Doe is survived by…”
- List immediate family members, starting with the spouse, children, and grandchildren. You may include the full names of each individual.
- If applicable, mention surviving parents, siblings, or close relatives.
- Include step-relatives, such as stepchildren or stepparents, if they were an important part of the deceased’s life.
- If desired, you can also mention other significant surviving individuals, such as close friends or caregivers.
- Consider mentioning the location of residence for each surviving family member, for example, “He is survived by his wife, Jane Doe, of New York City.”
Below is an example of a formal “Survived By” section:
John Doe will be deeply missed by his devoted wife of 50 years, Jane Doe. He is survived by his loving children, Mark Doe (Mary) and Susan Smith (John), as well as his adoring grandchildren, Emily, David, and Sarah. John is also survived by his sister, Linda Thompson, and his lifelong friend, Thomas Brown.
Informal Ways to Include “Survived By”
When writing an obituary for a close friend or family member, an informal tone can be more fitting to honor their unique personality. Here are some suggestions on how to express the “Survived By” section informally:
- Start the section with a heartfelt sentence like “John Doe leaves behind a legacy cherished by…”
- List immediate family members using their preferred names or nicknames.
- Add personal touches, such as sharing their relationship dynamics or special memories. For example, “He was a loving father, mentor, and best friend to his daughter, Susan, who always cherished their Sunday fishing trips.”
- Mention dear friends, colleagues, or pets, as long as they were significant to the deceased. Remember to use a respectful tone.
Here’s an example of an informal “Survived By” section:
John Doe leaves behind a legacy cherished by his beloved wife, Jane, who stole his heart from the moment they first met. He was a fantastic father known as “Super Dad” to his children, Mark and Susan, who inherited his infectious laughter and love for adventure. John’s dog, Buddy, will miss their daily walks in the park, a routine they never broke for the past decade. He will be warmly remembered and dearly missed by his close-knit group of friends who shared countless memories of laughter and camaraderie.
Additional Tips for Expressing “Survived By”
While writing the “Survived By” section, keep these additional tips in mind:
- Always ensure the accuracy of names, especially when using full names or nicknames.
- Consider the length of the section. While it’s important to highlight important individuals, be mindful of space limitations.
- If there are many surviving family members, you can use bullet points to make the information more readable.
- Remember to make the “Survived By” section inclusive, considering different family structures and relationships.
- Check for any regional variations or cultural customs that may influence how to express “Survived By.” Customs may differ based on religious practices or community traditions.
Writing an obituary is a deeply personal task, and expressing the “Survived By” section requires careful consideration. By following these guidelines, you can honor the deceased and provide comfort to those left behind. Remember, an obituary serves both as a tribute to a life lived and as a source of support for grieving families.
