How to Write an Obituary

Start with the essential details

Write down the person's full name, the name they were known by, and the dates the family wishes to include. Check spelling and dates with a trusted relative. Include a place of birth or a place they called home if it helps tell their story and the family is comfortable sharing it.

The cause of death is optional. You can write a respectful obituary without disclosing medical details or circumstances the family would prefer to keep private. Avoid publishing identity numbers, personal contact details or home addresses.

Tell the story in a manageable order

A chronological structure is a useful starting point, but the obituary does not need to read like a complete résumé. Choose the relationships, experiences and contributions that mattered most. A specific memory often tells readers more than a long list of general compliments.

1. Introduce the person and the family-approved dates or announcement.
2. Describe their childhood, home, education or other important beginnings.
3. Share their family relationships, work, community involvement and interests.
4. Include a memory, saying or habit that captures their personality.
5. Close with a tribute and any confirmed service details the family wants published.

A short fictional example

The example below uses a fictional person. Replace it with your loved one's own story and verify every detail before publishing. There is no required length; a few sincere paragraphs can be enough.

We remember Tendai Moyo, a devoted father, friend and teacher whose kindness touched many lives. Tendai loved tending his garden and welcoming visitors with a cup of tea. His family remembers his quiet encouragement, his ready laughter and the time he always made for others. We honour his memory by carrying that same generosity into our own lives.

Review it together before sharing

Ask a family member to read the draft for accuracy and tone. Check names, relationships, dates and any service arrangements. If relatives have different recollections, use wording everyone can support rather than publishing an uncertain detail as fact.

Confirm that photographs, quotations and personal stories may be shared. If funeral arrangements are still changing, wait for confirmation or direct readers to the memorial page for updates. Read the obituary aloud once: this can help you notice sentences that sound formal or do not feel like the person you remember.

On a Muzukuru memorial, you can keep the obituary alongside photos and other memories. Choose the appropriate visibility settings and share the page with the people you want to invite to remember your loved one.