Writing an obituary can be one of the hardest writing tasks you ever face. In obituaries, many families choose to include details that help others remember the person who passed. But what exactly should go into an obituary? An obituary should include the full name, key dates, family members, service details, and personal stories. Photos and charity information can add meaning. Avoid sensitive personal data, money details, and detailed death descriptions in Oklahoma City obituaries. Keep stories respectful and brief. Leave out clichés and private contact information to protect the family
Key Details to Include in an Obituary
Here is what you should add in the obituary:
- Full Name and Identifying Information
You should start with the person’s full legal name. It is helpful to include a maiden name if they were married. Many people in town might only know them by a nickname. Including “Big Mike” or “Dutch” helps old friends recognize the name in obituaries. This is the first step in making sure the right people see the news.
- Dates and Places of Birth and Death
Accuracy is very important here. Write down the day they were born and the day they passed away. You should also mention where they were born. If they passed away in a specific city, include that too. This creates a clear timeline for the reader.
- Surviving and Predeceased Family Members
Listing family members helps friends and relatives know who loved the person and who remains.
- Spouse or partner
- Children and grandchildren
- Parents and siblings
You may also note family members who passed before them. Be sure names are accurate.
- Funeral or Memorial Service Information
People need to know where to go to pay their respects. Be very clear about the location.
- Choose the date of the service.
- List the start time.
- Provide the full name of the funeral home.
- Add the address of the church or chapel.
- Mention if there is a burial afterward.
- Note if the service is private for family only.
- Personal Anecdotes and Character Highlights
What made them special? Share small details like growing the best tomatoes or always going to Friday night games. These moments make them feel real to the reader. Instead of saying “the best person ever,” describe how they rescued stray dogs. Specific examples help others connect with their life.
- Charitable or Donation Information
Many families prefer donations over flowers. If there is a charity they loved, list it at the end. Provide a website or a mailing address for the group. This helps their legacy continue through a good cause. For example, you might ask for gifts to the local animal shelter or a cancer research fund.
- Photo of the Deceased
A picture helps people connect with the words. Use a photo where they look like themselves. It does not have to be a formal portrait. A happy photo from a family dinner is often better. Most newspapers allow one clear image.
Key Details to Avoid in an Obituary
Now let’s cover what should be avoided:
- Sensitive Information and Financial Details to Avoid
There are details you should not include. Do not list things like:
- Full home address
- Social Security Numbers
- Exact birth time or other data that could be misused
- Bank accounts
- Asset values
- Insurance details
These are private matters best handled separately. They do not help friends remember the person.
- Details of Death or Sensitive Circumstances
Should you write how the person died? Often no. Unless the family wants to share some aspect of the cause of death, avoid details like accidents or illness struggles. This section can be private and painful. Readers mainly come to celebrate life, not relive the final moments.
- Overly Long or Personal Narratives
An obituary is not a memoir or eulogy speech. It should focus on the person who died, not the writer’s personal feelings. Avoid long passages about your grief or comparisons with others. Obituaries are typically factual with a personal touch, not an emotional essay.
- Clichéd or Generic Phrases
Try not to use stuff that feels empty like:
- “She was a good person.”
- “He will be missed dearly.”
These are fine when paired with real detail. But alone they tell little. Instead include specific things that made that person unique.
- Private Contact Information
Do not put your personal phone number in the text. People can find the family through the funeral home. If you put your cell number in public, you might get spam calls. It is better to let the professionals handle the inquiries.
Conclusion
Writing Oklahoma City obituaries can feel emotional and heavy. But if you follow a clear guide, you can create a tribute that honors life and respects both the deceased and their family. When writing an obituary, focus on the details that truly matter. Include the person’s name, important life dates, loved ones, service information, and a few meaningful memories. A photo or donation request can add warmth. Stay away from private data, finances, and painful details. Keep the wording simple, sincere, and safe for the family.