Writing an obituary can be a somber task, especially if you were close to the person who passed away. These announcements are used to give an overview of a loved one's life and accomplishments, and provide details about their funeral services. If you're tasked with writing someone else's obituary and this is your first time undertaking this crucial task, consult the guide below for tips on common mistakes to avoid.

What You Shouldn't Do When Writing an Obituary 

1. Inaccuracy 

Obituaries often include key details about a person's life, including their birth and death dates, places they lived, what they did for work, where they attended school, and information about their family. Getting these facts wrong could come across as insensitive to the loved one's life. Always double-check facts, even if you feel certain that they're correct. 

2. Wordiness and Grammar Errors 

When writing an obituary, write clearly and avoid grammatical mistakes. Keep in mind that newspapers may cut the length of obituaries, so make sure to write concisely. 

In general, these pieces are between 50 and 450 words, so you can use those guidelines as you decide what details to include. After putting together a draft, carefully proofread the text for grammatical errors and share it with others to get their input as well. 

3. Private Details 

An obituary is meant to be a tribute to the person who has passed. Therefore, it's best to stick to facts about their life and to use a positive, uplifting tone. Avoid publishing their opinions or private details that they wouldn't want to be printed in a newspaper, such as their political views.

Consult with other family members to get opinions on what you're including. Remember to check any notes that the deceased person may have made when planning their funeral services, since these notes could include guidelines for their obituary. 

If you need help planning a loved one's funeral services, turn to Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home Inc in Canandaigua, NY. For more than a century, this family-owned funeral home has assisted residents with funerals, burials, and cremations. They can help with everything from obituary writing to selecting grave markers and funeral flowers. Learn about their services online or request more information by calling (585) 394-4280.