the stories that matter most
An obituary is more than a notice—it is the final story we tell about someone we love.
At Remember Well, we believe every life deserves a story well told. Yet too often, obituaries become cold lists of facts: birth dates, job titles, survivors. But a meaningful obituary should capture a life, a legacy, and the humanity of the person behind the dates.
In this guide, we’ll teach you how to write an obituary that is not only factual—but heartfelt, memorable, and truly meaningful.
Why Obituary Writing Matters
The process of writing an obituary is part of the grief journey. It’s an opportunity to:
Reflect on your loved one’s story
Preserve memories for future generations
Share their impact with the community
Honor who they were beyond the facts
A well-written obituary provides closure, celebrates a life well-lived, and ensures that their legacy is documented with care.
The Core Elements of a Meaningful Obituary
Here’s what every obituary should include:
1. Basic Information
✅ Full name ✅ Date and place of birth ✅ Date and place of death ✅ Immediate family members
Why it matters: This information grounds the story but should not be the only focus.
2. A Short Life Summary
Include:
Where they grew up
Career highlights
Education
Marriage and family
Hobbies and passions
But make it human. Rather than a resume, summarize how they lived, loved, and contributed to the world.
3. Personal Stories & Qualities
This is what most obituaries miss. Add:
What made them laugh
Their quirks and habits
Their core values and beliefs
How they impacted others
At Remember Well, we believe this is the most meaningful part of any obituary—the human element.
4. Service Information (If Applicable)
✅ Time and location of memorial services ✅ Preferred way to honor their memory (donations, flowers, etc.)
5. Closing Message
A heartfelt sentence or two about their legacy or a favorite quote.
How Storytelling Transforms Obituaries
At Remember Well, we use the PRAI Storytelling System™ to ensure every obituary is:
✅ Thoughtful and personal ✅ Structured but human ✅ Written with dignity, care, and compassion
Our writing services include:
Standard, Enhanced, and Legacy Tributes (250-750+ words)
Memorial Letters
Letters to Heaven
Custom Eulogies
We work with families to capture not only the facts but the feelings, ensuring every obituary becomes a meaningful part of their loved one’s story.
Why Obituaries Are a Gift to the Living
Obituaries are not only for the departed. They are a record for families, friends, and future generations. They:
Preserve family history
Provide closure
Validate grief
Celebrate life
Serve as a lasting digital or printed memorial
When done well, an obituary can become a cherished keepsake.
Tips for Writing Your Own or Someone Else’s Obituary
If you are writing an obituary yourself, here are key tips:
Start with a draft. Don’t aim for perfection immediately.
Focus on storytelling. Include unique traits, funny stories, or heartfelt memories.
Involve others. Gather memories and input from friends and family.
Proofread carefully. Names, dates, and facts matter—but so do tone and clarity.
Consider professional help. Our team at Remember Well can help ensure the final story is meaningful, accurate, and worthy of the person you’re honoring.
Supporting Others in the Obituary Process
If a friend or family member is tasked with writing an obituary while grieving, here’s how you can support them:
Offer to help draft or edit.
Encourage them to include personal stories.
Remind them there’s no “right” way—just a meaningful way.
Gift a Remember Well obituary writing package to relieve their burden.
Grief can make writing difficult. Your support can help them tell the story well.
A meaningful obituary isn’t just about how someone died—it’s about how they lived.
At Remember Well, we are committed to ensuring every story is preserved with the dignity, personality, and love it deserves.
Their life well lived. Their story well told. Their legacy well honored.