Writing an Obituary

1. Writing an Obituary

2. What is an obituary? • An obituary is many things in one: • a notice of a death • a story of a life • a record of the extended family • information about a funeral service • a request for memorial donations

3. Things to think about when writing an obituary • Strike a balance between life and death.  Make your work not only a basic notice of the death, but also a compelling story of a life lived. • Describe the deceased as an individual – in the third person.

4. Things to think about when writing an obituary • Show, rather than tell.  Show characteristics rather than listing facts. • Revise and edit.  As with any writing, revising improves the final product. This process not only spots errors, but also improves the style. • Remember, you are speaking for the deceased and painting them in their best light. These are the last words that will be written about this person. Make them count.

5. Example Obituaries Jack Price, Jr. Houston, TXApril 30, 1931 to August 18, 2002 Jack was born in El Paso, Texas, where he lived until 1999. He joined the El Paso Police Department in 1954. He retired from the department in 1976 with the rank of Lieutenant. During his years at the department, those with whom he worked, and especially those lucky enough to be in his command, found him a tough but fair leader, capable of earning their deep respect. His family and friends knew he would stand by them in adversity and always be a trusted friend. He met Rosemary at work, where she was a staff member in the office of the Chief of Police. They married in 1968. Both had children from previous marriages, which they successfully blended into a close-knit family, something of which Jack was forever proud. After Jack's retirement, he worked at various other jobs, and, again, returned to law enforcement, joining the security department at El Paso Community College, as a Lieutenant. He proved to provide the same leadership success there as he had at the police department. He retired from EPCC, due to failing health, in 1996. Jack and Rosemary moved to Houston in 1999 to be closer to their children, who all live in and around the Houston area. This proved to be the best thing they ever did. He may be gone, but he certainly isn't forgotten -- and never will be. He was from an era when a handshake or his word was a bond, and his friendship was everlasting. Instead of flowers, the family has asked for donations to National Association of Police Organizations to better support local law enforcement.

6. Dalton, John "Jack"John Dalton, known to friends as "Jack," passed away on September 4, 2014, at the age of 78 years. A native of Grovedale, Jack attended the University of Alberta, graduated with a degree in law and practiced in the Peace River area prior to being appointed to the bench of the Alberta Supreme Court. In 1959, he began his law career with Dion and Dechant law firm where he was to spend his entire time in private practice. He was appointed Crown Attorney in 1980 and Justice of Family Court in 1982, serving in this capacity until 1990 when he was appointed as a Justice of the Alberta Supreme Court. Jack served on the boards of numerous organizations, including Evergreen Park and the Tepee Creek Stampede, Parkinson's Research Foundation, as well as chair of the Alberta Toastmasters for three years. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Cora, sons Colin, Jr. and Adam, 10 grandchildren. A Celebration of Jack ’ s life will be held at 10 am, on Monday, September 7, at the Oliver’s Funeral Home. Memorial donations in memory of Jack can be made to The Parkinson’s Research Foundation.

7. Travis A. Turner, 19, of Clinton, died February 5, 2009 as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident involving a drunk driver. He was born December 5, 1990 in Utica, the son of John and Louise Turner. He attended Clinton schools and graduated from Clinton High School in 2008, where he was a member of the student council and the basketball team. Travis was a member of the Order of the Eagle of the Boy Scouts of America and had been a member of Troop 52. He achieved his Eagle rank upon completion of a project that restored several damaged headstones in the historic old Clinton Cemetery in 2006. Travis is survived by his parents John and Louise of Clinton; his brother Chad and his sister Karen. He also leaves his maternal grandparents, Harold and Gladys Crater. He is also survived by his girlfriend, Kristen Porter of Clinton and his close friends Jacob Hart of New Harford and Zachary Taylor of Clinton. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Dimbleby Funeral Home in Clinton. The funeral will be held on Thursday at 9:30a.m. at the funeral home and at 10am at Grace Episcopal Church in Clinton. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to the M.A.D.D. (Mother's Against Drunk Driving) program at Clinton High School. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and can also be mailed to M.A.D.D., c/o Guidance Department, Clinton High School, 24 Waverly Street, Clinton 13323.