Writing an obituary is one of the most meaningful ways to preserve a loved one’s legacy. A thoughtfully crafted notice does more than share facts — it tells a story, honours unique qualities, and helps friends and family begin healing. In this guide, you’ll discover obituary examples you can adapt, a clear obituary template, key writing tips, and answers to common questions.
What Makes a Great Obituary?
The most memorable obituaries balance five qualities:
- Emotional resonance rather than a list of facts
- Clarity and brevity while keeping warmth
- Authentic voice that sounds like the family — or even the deceased — speaking
- Personal details that bring the individual’s character to life
- Lasting impact on others rather than achievements alone
A well‑written obit helps readers connect with the deceased, even if they never met.
Common Elements in Every Obituary Template
- Announcement of death — full name (with nickname), age, date, and place of passing
- Biographical summary — birth details, milestones, passions, and prized accomplishments
- Family information — those who leave behind and those pre‑deceased
- Service details — visitation, funeral, or celebration of life particulars
- Acknowledgements — special thanks to caregivers, friends, or institutions
Optional enhancements
- Meaningful photograph
- Favourite quotation or verse
- Memorial‑donation information (“In lieu of flowers…”)
- Livestream link / online guest book URL
- QR code to a digital memorial page
Typical Obituary Structure & Template
- Lead paragraph – Announce the passing with essentials.
- Life story – One to three paragraphs painting their journey, values, and influence.
- Family paragraph – List surviving and pre‑deceased relatives.
- Service information – Date, time, and location of ceremonies.
- Closing thought – A final sentiment, quote, or invitation.
Writing Meaningful Biographical Information
- Focus on milestones and vivid anecdotes over résumé‑style lists.
- Highlight how they shaped family, friends, or the community.
- Include personality cues — hobbies, favourite sayings, trademark habits.
- Mention causes or beliefs close to their heart.
- Share one specific memory to capture their essence.
Below you’ll find eight fresh obituary examples you can adapt word‑for‑word, followed by two celebrated press obituaries that demonstrate masterful storytelling.
Obituary Example 1 – The Storyteller
Lorenzo “Larry” Bonaventura — 1938–2025
With a worn leather notebook never far from reach, Larry Bonaventura chronicled the small joys of everyday life. On 4 May 2025, in Toronto, surrounded by family and the hum of smooth jazz, Larry’s pen came to rest one last time. He was eighty‑six.
Born in Naples, Larry emigrated to Canada at fourteen, learned English from public‑library novels, and later became a celebrated columnist for The Toronto Star. Readers cherished the warmth and wit in his weekly “City Sketches,” where potholes and pigeons became poetry.
Larry leaves behind Ella, his wife of fifty‑five years; children Marco (Sophie) and Isabella (Daniel); grandchildren Luca, Renée, and Theo; and sister Giulia in Naples. He reunites with parents Giuseppe and Adelina.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, 17 May at 2 p.m. at St. Michael’s College School, 1515 Bathurst St. Guests are invited to wear bright colours and bring a favourite Larry column to pin on a memory wall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Frontier College, nurturing literacy across Canada. “Stories,” Larry often said, “are the breadcrumbs that lead us back home.”
Obituary Example 2 – The Quiet Hero
Captain Emily “Em” Harris, CD — 1981–2025
Captain Emily Harris, decorated search‑and‑rescue pilot and devoted mother, died 28 April while hiking the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, a place she loved for its silence above the world. She was forty‑three.
Raised in Vancouver, Emily joined the Royal Canadian Air Force at eighteen, logging over 5 000 flight hours and rescuing 127 people during alpine and maritime missions. Colleagues recall her calm voice over turbulent rotors: “We’ve got you.”
Emily’s light lives on in husband Daniel; children Olivia (twelve) and Nathan (nine); parents William and Sarah Harris; and brother Thomas.
A military funeral will take place 10 May, 11 a.m. at CFB Cold Lake Chapel, with live‑stream for distant friends. Guests may wear non‑uniform attire in Emily’s favourite teal.
Please direct memorial gifts to the Canadian Women in Aviation Foundation. Per Ardua Ad Astra — through adversity to the stars.
Obituary Example 3 – The Community Builder
Robert “Bob” Chen — 1950–2025
Robert Chen believed a neighbourhood blossomed when strangers learned each other’s names. From his first café in San Francisco’s Mission District to the annual street festivals he organized, Bob stitched community like a quilt. He passed peacefully on 22 April at home, aged seventy‑four.
Born in Hong Kong, Bob arrived in San Francisco in 1972 with two suitcases and an espresso machine. Four cafés, one food‑bank programme, and countless chess tournaments later, his open door became a city landmark.
Bob leaves behind partner Maria Torres; children Patrick, Grace, and Jeremy; grand‑pup Mochi; and legions of “uncle” nieces and nephews who grew up tasting his almond cookies.
Visitation 1 May, 5 – 9 p.m.; funeral 2 May, 11 a.m. at Grace Cathedral. Wear a name‑tag — Bob’s only request — so new friends can greet you.
To honour him, share coffee with someone new this week or contribute to the San Francisco‑Marin Food Bank.
Obituary Example 4 – The Artist’s Heart
Asha Patel — 1993–2025
Water‑colour painter Asha Patel captured Chicago’s rain‑slicked streets in jewel tones. She died unexpectedly 30 March after a brief illness, aged thirty‑one.
Asha earned a BFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, staged solo exhibitions on three continents, and mentored young artists through Urban Gateways. She loved chai at sunrise, thrift‑store corduroy, and the Bengali songs her father whistled while framing canvases.
She is mourned by parents Rahul and Megha; brother Kabir; partner Marcus Jenkins; and her chosen family of studio‑mates.
A memorial show will open 15 April at the Zhou B Art Center; limited‑edition prints will support Arts for All Chicago. Attendees are encouraged to wear something second‑hand “because every object has a story.”
Obituary Example 5 – The Teacher’s Legacy
Eleanor “Mrs. W” Washington — 1944–2025
For 42 Septembers, Mrs. Washington greeted second‑graders at Oakridge Elementary in Atlanta with the same question: “Ready to discover the world?” She passed away peacefully 14 April, age eighty‑one, surrounded by former pupils who testified that yes — they were ready.
Born in Savannah, she taught reading by staging mini‑plays and turned maths drills into bakery budgets. Awards lined her desk, but the thank‑you notes meant more.
She reunites with husband James and son Michael and leaves behind daughters Tanya and Keisha, five grandchildren, and hundreds of grateful students.
Funeral service 20 April, 10 a.m. at Friendship Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, please donate children’s books to your local library and inscribe “From Mrs. W’s legacy” inside the cover.
Obituary Example 6 – A Life of Service
Reverend Michael O’Connell — 1958–2025
Rev. Michael O’Connell, parish priest at St. Patrick’s in Boston’s South End, brought soup to the hungry and stand‑up comedy to the pulpit. He entered eternal rest 10 March, age sixty‑seven.
A Boston native, Fr. Mike found vocation after touring with a folk band, believing music and ministry shared the same rhythm: listen first.
Survived by sister Kathleen; nephews Sean and Declan; and thousands who called him “Father,” Catholic or not.
Vigil 18 March, 7 p.m.; funeral liturgy 19 March, 11 a.m., both at St. Patrick’s. The service will close with his favourite tune, The Parting Glass.
Donations: Greater Boston Food Bank.
Obituary Example 7 – Gone Too Soon
Jonah Ellis Williams — 1997–2025
Jonah Williams packed more kindness into 28 years than some do in eighty. He died in a cycling accident 26 February while training for the Ride to Conquer Cancer in Seattle.
Born in Portland, Jonah studied biomedical engineering at the University of Washington and volunteered as a Big Brother. Friends recall his relentless dad‑jokes and habit of sending sunrise photos to night‑shift workers.
He leaves behind parents Dr. Paul and Karen Williams and sisters Maya and Imani.
A celebration of life with open‑mic stories will be held 8 March, 4 p.m. at University Unitarian Church. Cyclists are invited to arrive by bike.
Memorial gifts may be directed to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Centre, supporting children — Jonah’s final fundraising goal.
Obituary Example 8 – The Matriarch
Señora Carmen Rivera (née López) — 1932–2025
The aroma of Carmen Rivera’s kitchen — cilantro, lime, storytelling — drew three generations home every Sunday. She passed away peacefully 31 January, age ninety‑three, hands still scented with coriander.
Born in Puebla, Mexico, Carmen migrated to Miami in 1970, turning her apartment into a sanctuary for newcomers. She spoke four languages, but kindness was fluent in all.
Pre‑deceased by husband Alfonso, she leaves behind children Lucia, Diego, and Ana; eight grandchildren; and four great‑grandchildren.
Rosary 6 Feb, 7 p.m.; funeral Mass 7 Feb, 11 a.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. Reception to follow with Carmen’s famous mole poblano.
In lieu of flowers, plant a herb in your window and whisper “Gracias, Carmen” when it flourishes.
Two Notable Public Obituaries Worth Reading
- Toni Morrison – The New York Times: a masterclass in weaving literary impact with biography.
- Dr. Gilles Julien – La Presse: an example of mission‑driven storytelling.
How to Use These Obituary Examples
- Identify the essence – profession, passions, or community role.
- Craft a hook – a vivid image, belief, or anecdote.
- Replace details – names, dates, locations.
- Add unique touches – stories only you can share.
- Choose a meaningful close – a quote, lyric, or action in their honour
For a deeper dive into funeral planning costs, see Cleo’s Cost of Cremation Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Obituaries
How long should an obituary be?
Newspapers often cap at 200 – 500 words, while online tributes can run longer. Focus on quality, not length.
When should an obituary be published?
Ideally two to three days before the service so mourners can plan to attend.
How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
Print fees range from about $100 to $800, depending on length and paper. Many funeral homes include a basic obituary in their packages; online memorial sites may be free
Can I publish a bilingual obituary?
Yes. In multicultural regions like Québec, many outlets accommodate English/French (or other language) obits.
Should I include the cause of death?
It’s a personal choice. Consider the deceased’s wishes and the family’s comfort.
Why Work With Cleo
Writing an obituary can feel overwhelming—especially during a time of loss. At Cleo, we’re here to help you create something meaningful, dignified, and true to your loved one’s life. Whether you want to follow a classic structure, write something more personal, or publish in both French and English, our experienced team is here to support you.
We offer:
- Professional obituary writing assistance in English and French
- Review and editing services if you've written a first draft
- Guidance on where and how to publish, both online and in print
- Seamless integration with the rest of your funeral or cremation arrangements
One call is all it takes. Reach out any time, 24/7
📞 (438) 817-1770
Let us help you honour your loved one with care, clarity, and compassion