Obituary examples

Obituary examples you can start from

Browse real-style obituary samples for different situations, then create a personalized obituary for free.

Obituary examples by style

Short obituary example

A brief, respectful notice for newspapers, funeral homes, or online memorial pages.

Margaret Elaine Porter, age 82, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026. She was born on June 2, 1943, in Dayton, Ohio, to Henry and Louise Miller.

Margaret will be remembered for her warmth, quiet strength, and devotion to her family. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and many friends, and was preceded in death by her husband, Robert.

A memorial service will be held on March 20 at Grace Community Church. Her family is grateful for the kindness and support shown during this time.

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Traditional obituary example

A classic structure with family, biography, service details, and memorial donations.

Helen Marie Dawson, 91, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri. She was born on September 17, 1934, to Charles and Anna Whitaker and grew up surrounded by family, faith, and music.

Helen graduated from Roosevelt High School and worked for many years as a school secretary. She was known for remembering every child by name, keeping a garden full of roses, and writing thoughtful notes to anyone who needed encouragement.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and was preceded in death by her husband, Robert. Visitation will be held Friday evening, with funeral services at St. Mark’s Church and burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church memorial fund.

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Life story obituary example

A fuller example that focuses on personality, values, and the shape of a life.

Thomas Edward Lane passed away on April 8, 2026, at the age of 76. Born in Savannah, Georgia, Thomas grew up surrounded by music, family meals, and stories told on the front porch. Those early years shaped the humor, generosity, and steadiness he carried throughout his life.

Thomas built a life centered on service, hard work, and deep love for his family. He could repair almost anything, remembered everyone’s favorite song, and believed a good meal could solve more problems than people realized.

He leaves behind his wife, children, grandchildren, and a wide circle of friends. His legacy of kindness and devotion will continue in the lives of all who loved him.

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Obituary example for a mother

A warm sample for honoring a mother, grandmother, stepmother, or maternal figure.

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Patricia Ann Coleman, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who died on March 27, 2026. Patricia built a life full of faith, family, and service.

She gave generously through meals left on porches, handwritten cards, and the kind of listening that made people feel understood. Her family will remember her strength, her prayers, her Sunday dinners, and the steady love that shaped their lives.

A service will be held at First Baptist Church. Patricia’s love remains a guiding presence for all who knew her.

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Obituary example for a father

A steady, personal sample for a father, grandfather, stepfather, or father figure.

With deep love, we announce the passing of Michael James Turner, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, who passed away on April 2, 2026. Michael was born in Toledo, Ohio, and built a life rooted in family, honesty, and hard work.

He taught his family the value of patience and showing up when it mattered. He showed love through home-cooked breakfasts, careful advice, and long phone calls just to check in.

Michael will be remembered for his steady heart and the safety his family felt in his presence. His memory will live on in the lessons he taught and the love he gave so freely.

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Celebration of life obituary example

A more uplifting sample for a personal or informal gathering.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Carla Bennett, who passed away on June 19, 2026. Carla lived with creativity, courage, and a laugh that could fill any room.

She filled her days with gardening, painting, and caring for the people around her. Those who knew Carla will remember her colorful scarves, handwritten notes, and the way she made ordinary moments feel special.

Please join us for a celebration of life on June 28 at Riverside Park. Guests are encouraged to bring a favorite memory to share.

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Veteran obituary example

A respectful sample that includes military service and civilian life.

Robert Allen Hayes, U.S. Navy veteran, passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 84. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Robert served in the Navy from 1962 to 1968 and was proud of the discipline, friendships, and purpose he found during those years.

After his service, he built a career as an electrician and raised a family with quiet devotion. He will be remembered for his integrity, loyalty, and steady love.

Services with military honors will be held at Oak Hill Memorial Chapel. In remembrance, donations may be made to a veterans support organization of your choice.

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Sudden death obituary example

Gentle wording for an unexpected loss, without pressure to share private details.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Jason Miller on April 12, 2026. Jason was 38 and deeply loved by his family, friends, and coworkers.

He will be remembered for his quick humor, generous heart, and the many ways he made others feel included. The family asks for privacy and compassion during this difficult time.

A service to honor Jason’s life will be held at a later date. Those who wish to support the family may share a favorite memory or offer kindness in Jason’s name.

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Need a fill-in-the-blank version?

If you prefer a structured format, start with an obituary template and fill in the details step by step.

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Obituary examples FAQ

Can I copy these obituary examples?

Yes. Use any example as a starting point, then personalize it with names, dates, service details, family, and memories.

What makes a good obituary example?

A good example includes the essential facts, a few personal details, service information if available, and a closing sentence that feels respectful.