Conforting Obituaries

What makes a good obituary? Why do readers/ viewers read and watch them? In order to write a good obituary, there is a long list of things that the writer should be careful not to forget. An obituary should include the name of the person, the time and place of birth and death, cause of the death, where he or she died, the names of the relatives, time and place of the funeral. Then, the writer usually includes personal achievements of the deceased, where he or she lived, the occupation, any hobbies or talents and more often than not a picture. A picture allows the reader to connect with person in question. The writer should be careful not to include any information that family or friends of the person would find offending. An example would be not to include details or explanations as to how the person died especially if it is related to illegal practices. People like reading obituaries because they are a sign of respect and they are moral support for the relatives. Good obituaries will portray the person in a sincere and favorable light and that will give a sense of comfort to the people who knew the deceased.