Losing a sibling is one of the most painful experiences anyone can go through. Writing an obituary to honor their life can feel like an overwhelming task, but it’s also an opportunity to celebrate their memory. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to write a sibling obituary, offering examples, tips, and advice to help you express your emotions in a respectful and meaningful
1. Start with Basic Information
The first step in writing a sibling’s obituary is to include the essential details. This is where you’ll mention their full name, age, date of birth, and date of passing. You should also include where they lived and their relationship to you. For example:
Example:
“Johnathan Doe, 38, passed away on November 21, 2024. He was born on March 3, 1986, in Springfield, Illinois, and was the beloved brother of Sarah Doe.”
2. Acknowledge Family Members and Relationships
One of the most important parts of a sibling’s obituary is to mention surviving family members. This can include parents, other siblings, and children (if applicable). Acknowledging these relationships helps show the depth of the bond between your sibling and others. This also provides comfort to those left behind.
Example:
“Johnathan is survived by his parents, Mary and David Doe, his sister Sarah, and his two young nieces, Lily and Grace.”
3. Describe Their Life and Achievements
When writing a sibling obituary, it’s important to highlight the things that made them unique. Whether they had a career, hobbies, or made an impact in their community, mention these details to give a fuller picture of who they were.
Example:
“Johnathan was known for his love of adventure, having traveled to over 10 countries. As a dedicated volunteer at the local animal shelter, he inspired everyone around him with his kindness and enthusiasm.”
4. Add Personal Touches and Anecdotes
Incorporating personal memories or stories about your sibling can make the obituary feel more personal and heartfelt. Whether it’s a funny moment, a shared childhood memory, or a moment that defines their character, these details can bring their personality to life.
Example:
“I will always remember how Johnathan could make anyone laugh with his quirky sense of humor. I’ll never forget the time he dressed up as a superhero for Halloween, despite being in his 30s—he always had a way of brightening up any room.”
5. Mention Service or Memorial Information
If you’re holding a memorial service or funeral, be sure to include the details here so that loved ones can pay their respects. This could include the date, time, and location of the service, along with any other relevant information (like charitable donations in lieu of flowers).
Example:
“A celebration of life will be held on December 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Springfield Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Animal Shelter Fund.”
6. End with a Meaningful Closin
To wrap up the obituary, it’s nice to include a sentiment that reflects how you feel about your sibling’s passing. This can be a religious or spiritual sentiment, or simply a final note of love and remembrance.
Example:
“Johnathan will forever be missed by his family and friends, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear brother.”
Final Tips for Writing a Sibling Obituary
- Take Your Time: It’s normal to feel emotional during this process, so take your time to gather your thoughts and words.
- Stay Honest and Heartfelt: This is your sibling’s story, so speak from the heart and avoid clichés.
- Seek Help if Needed: If writing feels too difficult, ask a family member or close friend for help. Sometimes, it’s easier to share memories and have someone else write them down.
- Proofread: Before submitting the obituary, check for spelling and grammatical errors to ensure it’s polished.
Writing an obituary for your sibling may be one of the hardest things you’ll ever do, but it’s also a special way to honor their memory. By sharing their story, achievements, and the impact they had on your life, you create a lasting tribute to someone who meant the world to you. Whether it’s through humor, love, or personal reflection, your sibling’s obituary is a chance to celebrate them as you say goodbye.
Writing a sibling obituary is deeply personal, and there is no right or wrong way to do it. Take comfort in knowing that your words will be a lasting tribute to your sibling’s life and legacy. Let your heart guide you through this process, and remember that this final tribute is one of the many ways you can keep their memory alive.
