obituaries

An obituary is a notice of a death, typically published in newspapers or on websites, that also provides a brief biographical summary of the deceased. Obituaries can be prepared by family members, funeral homes, or news organizations and may be accompanied by information about funeral or memorial services. A related form, the death notice, is usually shorter and focuses on essential details such as the name, age, date of death, and service arrangements. In many regions, paid obituaries or "paid notices" appear alongside independent notices.

Typical content includes the person's full name at birth, date and place of birth, key life events, education, career achievements, affiliations, and contributions; survivors and family relationships; and details about services and ways to honor the deceased, such as charitable donations. The tone is generally respectful and factual, and the cause of death is often omitted or described briefly at the family's discretion.

Ethical and editorial considerations include accuracy, consent, privacy, and sensitivity to bereavement. Obituaries may be produced by professional staff or family members, and can vary in length and style. In addition to print, obituaries are archived online and can serve as genealogical and historical records. They reflect cultural and religious practices surrounding death and remembrance and contribute to public recognition of a person’s life and accomplishments.