The obituary format for a traditional obituary typically includes the following sections:
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Name and Age: This section provides the deceased's full name as they were known during their life and their age at the time of their death.
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Occupation and Professional Achievements: Here, the obituary will mention the deceased's professional title or accomplishments, accomplishments, and any honors they received.
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Service Information: This section provides details about where the funeral or graveside services were held, what time they took place, and who officiated.
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Family and Personal Relationships: Obituaries will often include a list of surviving family members, predeceased family members, and any close friends.
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Memories and Personal Stories: Personalized memories and anecdotes that highlight the deceased's personality and contributions to their immediate circle of family and friends are often included.
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Inscriptions or Quotes: These sections may include religious texts, famous speeches, poems, song lyrics, personal quotes, and favorite religious references.
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Biographies of Family Members: For those with multiple family members, an obituary may include a brief biographical section on each family member, highlighting their contributions, talents, relationships, and character traits.
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Obituary Programs and Designs: The obituary may also include details about professional designs and layouts formatted using Microsoft Word, MS Publisher or MAC Pages, providing a color palette and design options.
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Donation Requests: Obituaries may also direct readers to specific donation requests, often to charitable organizations in honor of the deceased.
Sample Obituary for John Andres, 62
John F. Andres, 62, passed away April 5, 1994, at his Manhattan home. John was born on July 1, 1952, in Kaneohe, Hawaii.
After graduating from Boone High School in Kosciusko, Miss., John continued his education at Holmes Community College in Holmes, Miss., obtaining an associates degree in construction management. He enjoyed football and playing Scrabble with his family. John had a passion for traveling and was a fan of the San Francisco 49ers. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Kaneohe, Hawaii.
Despite facing financial hardships, John managed to secure a steady career in construction, eventually founding his own construction company, Andres Building Company. He was known for his honesty, hard work, and commitment to his employees. John was cherished by his employees, who considered him a mentor and father figure. He is survived by his mother, Emily Andres of Long Island; brothers and their spouses, Richard Jr. and Leah Andres, and Thomas and Maggie Andres; several nephews; and special friend, Eva Gibson of Manhattan.
John was predeceased by his father, Richard Andres.
Arrangements were handled by Cook Inlet funeral home in Hawaii. Memorials to the family may be made to the First Baptist Church in Kaneohe, Hawaii.
The obituary provides the traditional biographical information expected in a traditional obituary. It includes important information about John's life, accomplishments, and relationships, as well as an arrangement and donation request.
Sample Obituary for Amy Elizabeth Jones
Amy Elizabeth Jones, 33, passed away March 6, 2005, surrounded by her family and friends. A native of California, Amy lived in the small town of Ojai before moving to Oxnard with her parents when she was 10 years old. Amy was an active member of the Oxnard High School basketball team and played on the varsity team throughout her high school career. She was also involved in several extracurricular activities, including the student council, drama club, and the Oxnard Optimist Club.
After graduating high school in 2005, Amy attended the University of Southern California, where she graduated with honors in journalism. She pursued a career in journalism and eventually landed a job with ABC News Digital Media Group. Amy was recognized for her outstanding work by the station's management and colleagues.
Amy was passionate about storytelling, photography, and painting. She had a unique vision for her photography and often incorporated her passion for art into her work. During her time with ABC, Amy traveled extensively and documented stories in various countries, including Brazil, Italy, and Japan.
Amy was predeceased by her mother, Barbara Elizabeth Smith of Oxnard.
Donations in Amy's memory may be made to the Oxnard Optimist Club, P.O. Box 840, Oxnard, CA 93030, or to the charity of her choice.
