When someone close to us passes away, it can feel like the world stops, and yet, so much still needs to be done. In the middle of the sadness, there’s suddenly so much to think about—calls to make, arrangements to organise, and decisions that don’t come with a guidebook. It’s overwhelming, especially when your heart is heavy. And, one of the most difficult parts for many people is figuring out how to share the news. How do you even begin to tell others that someone so loved is no longer here? What do you say? Who do you tell? And how?
That’s funeral notices, death announcements, and obituaries can help. They offer a way to gently share the news, while also honouring the person you’ve lost. If you’re not quite sure what each one is or how they’re used, this guide breaks it down in simple terms.
Death Announcement
A death announcement is a short message that lets people know someone has passed away. It’s usually shared not long after the death, just to gently inform family, friends, or the wider community. For example, you might say something like:
“We’re heartbroken to share that James Peter Thompson passed away peacefully on 5th March. We’ll share funeral details soon.”
How do you write a death announcement?
Writing a death announcement is about gently and respectfully informing others of a loved one’s passing. It’s a sensitive message, so it’s important to approach it with care and compassion. Here’s what you might include:
- The person’s full name: Begin by mentioning the full name of the person who has passed.
- Date and location of death: Include the date and, if you wish, the location where they passed away.
- A brief tribute or message: A sentence or two acknowledging the loss, such as, “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of [Name].”
- Funeral details: If known, include information about the funeral service, memorial, or where donations may be made in their memory.
For example,
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Evans, who passed away peacefully on 19th May 2025 in his home in Scotland. Funeral arrangements will be shared soon. May he rest in peace.”
Where to post a death announcement?
- Social media: Posting an announcement online on social media can be a way to inform friends and family, especially those who may not be in close contact. You can also include funeral details.
- Cards: A death announcement can be included in funeral cards sent to family, friends, and colleagues.
- Newspapers: It’s still common in some areas to publish death notices in local newspapers.
- Funeral programs: You may also include an announcement in the funeral booklet, giving attendees a respectful way to learn of the passing.
Where you choose to post the announcement will depend on who you want to inform. For close family and friends, a personal card or phone call might be more appropriate, while a broader number of may be reached through social media or a newspaper notice.
Funeral Notice
A funeral notice is simply a way to let people know the important details about the funeral like when and where it’s happening, and whether the family has any special requests, such as sending flowers or donating to a charity. These days, many people share funeral notices online, which makes it easier to reach friends and family, especially those who live far away, or you might not speak to regularly.
Quick tip: If you’re adding funeral details to printed stationery, using a simple layout like a traditional funeral notice can help everyone understand the arrangements clearly.
A funeral notice in comparison to death announcements is a more detailed message about the funeral arrangements. It’s typically shared after the death announcement and provides information on the funeral service, such as:
- Date, time, and location of the funeral service
- Details of the committal or burial
- Information about the wake or memorial service
- Requests for donations or flowers
- Contact information for the family or funeral home
Where do you write funeral notices?
Funeral notices are usually shared in more formal or public ways, such as:
- Newspapers (local or national)
- Funeral home websites
- Funeral programs (printed for the service)
- Memorial websites or social media posts
A funeral notice is the place to include specific details that help people attend the funeral or pay their respects in other ways (like sending flowers or making donations).
Obituary
An obituary is a heartfelt tribute to someone who has passed away. It’s a way to remember and honour their life, highlighting the special moments, the love they gave, and the impact they had on those around them. It talks about their family, achievements, and the qualities that made them unique, whether it was their sense of humour, kindness, or strength.
Obituaries are shared in newspapers, online memorials, or funeral home websites, so friends, family, and the community can come together to reflect on and celebrate the life they lived. It’s not just a collection of memories, but a personal story that keeps their memory alive.
What does a typical obituary include?
- Full name of the deceased
- Date of birth and date of death
- Details of their life, including significant milestones, such as:
- Career accomplishments
- Hobbies or passions
- Family and relationships
- Community involvement or special qualities
- Funeral or memorial service details (optional, sometimes included if the obituary is published before the funeral)
- Surviving family members: It may list children, grandchildren, spouse, or others who are still living, and sometimes mention predeceased family members.
- Personal anecdotes or quotes: Many obituaries include a brief story, quote, or personal sentiment that reflects the personality or character of the deceased.
The goal of an obituary is to provide a heartfelt tribute to the person, sharing their story with others, and allowing people to reflect on the impact they had on the world.
Here’s a simple table that highlights the key differences between Death Announcement, Funeral Notices, and Obituary:
| Aspect | Death Announcement | Funeral Notice | Obituary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To inform others that someone has passed away. | To share the details of the funeral service. | To honour and celebrate the life of the deceased. |
| Content | Brief message about the death. | Details about the funeral service, time, place, etc. | A personal tribute, life story, and achievements. |
| When it’s shared | Soon after the death. | Before or shortly after the funeral details are set. | After the death, typically before or during the funeral. |
| Tone | Simple, respectful, and to the point. | Informative, respectful, and practical. | Reflective, heartfelt, and personal. |
| Where it’s shared | Social media, emails, or cards. | Newspapers, funeral home websites, printed programs. | Newspapers, online memorial pages, funeral websites. |
| Length | Short and direct. | Moderate, includes logistical details. | Longer, with a story about the person’s life. |
| Main Focus | Just the announcement of the death. | Funeral details and arrangements. | The life, achievements, and legacy of the deceased. |
If you’re looking for help with creating funeral stationery, like funeral programs or order of service booklets, we’re here to make that part of the process a little easier for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized designs that help you celebrate the life of your loved one with care and respect.
