An obituary is a publicly published notice of the death. It serves several purposes. Obituaries in San Antonio TX alert relatives that are unable to travel to the funeral of the death, and creates a lasting memorial to the deceased. Loved ones should devote some time and thought to what will be included prior to publishing, as it often serves as the only lasting biographical sketch of an individual long after his or her death. Below are a few things to consider including in the formal obituary.
Basic Biographical Information
The deceased’s name, age, occupation, and birthplace are almost always included in his or her obituary. This helps readers who may not have been close enough to receive word directly from the surviving family determine who has died. Names of surviving relatives and the place of death are typically included as well.
Interment Details
Often information about the funeral services being planned and the intended place of interment are included in the deceased’s obituary. This latter can be helpful to family members or friends who do not live locally and cannot attend the services, but still want to pay their respects. It can also help genealogists and other researchers further down the line if new generations of the deceased’s family is interested in learning about the family’s past. To that end information such as the hospital that had been providing care, and the name of the officiating minster at the funeral service, may also be included.
A Personal Touch
If the deceased had notable accomplishments or interests, they should be included in his or her obituary. Things like church membership, positions held in social or vocational organizations, and hobbies they were passionate about could also be used to add a personal touch to this lasting memorial.
Ultimately an obituary should be able to provide practical information and express something of the deceased’s character. It should help to bring closure for both the person writing it and the family members who will be unable to attend the funeral services. Finally, it should leave a personal and lasting memorial to the loved one who has passed.
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