Simple Obituary Examples: 30+ Short Examples for Every Situation
- Lastly.com
- Aug 4
- 19 min read
Updated: Aug 5
Last Words Matter™
Sometimes the hardest part of writing an obituary isn't finding the right words.
It's finding the first ones.
After the loss of someone you love, even a blank page can feel overwhelming. You know there's a life worth honoring, but knowing where to begin is often the hardest step.
That's why many families start by looking for a simple obituary example.
Not because they want something generic.
Because they need a place to begin.
A thoughtful template can provide structure, reduce the pressure, and help transform overwhelming emotions into words that honor a life with love and dignity.
Whether you're writing for a parent, spouse, grandparent, sibling, or friend, the examples in this guide are designed to give you confidence—not to be copied word for word, but to inspire an obituary that feels authentic to the person you're remembering.
Because sometimes the simplest words are the ones we remember most.
Introduction
Writing an obituary is one of the most meaningful things you'll ever do for someone you love.
It's also something most people have never done before.
When you're grieving, trying to summarize an entire lifetime can feel impossible. You may wonder what to include, how long it should be, or whether the words you're choosing are enough.
The good news is that an obituary doesn't have to be long to be meaningful.
Some of the most touching obituaries are also the simplest. They focus on the person, the people who loved them, and the legacy they leave behind.
In this guide, you'll find 30 simple obituary examples organized by relationship, style, and situation. You'll also learn what every obituary should include and how to personalize a simple template so it reflects the unique life you're honoring.
These examples are not only brief—they are intentionally straightforward, using clear language and a familiar structure that makes them easy to personalize.
Whether you need a short obituary for a newspaper, a memorial service, or simply a place to begin, these examples can help you take the first step with confidence.
Quick Answer
A simple obituary is a brief announcement that shares the essential details of a person's life and passing while honoring their memory.
Most simple obituaries include the person's name, age, date of death, a few words about who they were, close family members, and information about the funeral or memorial service.
The best simple obituary isn't necessarily the longest—it's the one that reflects the life, love, and legacy of the person being remembered.
In This Guide
Whether you need a starting point for a parent, partner, grandparent, friend, or a particular type of service, this guide will help you quickly find a simple obituary example you can personalize.
Getting Started
Simple Obituary Examples by Relationship
Simple Obituary Examples for Different Situations
Making the Obituary Your Own
What Is a Simple Obituary?
A simple obituary is exactly what it sounds like—a clear, heartfelt summary of someone's life that focuses on the essentials.
Unlike longer obituary tributes that tell detailed life stories, a simple obituary highlights the most important information in just a few short paragraphs.
Most include:
The person's full name and age
When and where they passed away
A brief summary of their life
Close surviving family members
Funeral or memorial service details
A closing message of remembrance
Simple doesn't mean impersonal.
In fact, some of the most meaningful obituaries are only a few paragraphs long. A favorite hobby, a defining character trait, or a single sentence about how someone made others feel can often say more than an extensive list of accomplishments.
The goal isn't to tell every story.
It's to help people remember the person behind the name.
Families who prefer a fill-in-the-blank structure may also find our free obituary templates and printable examples helpful.
Need Help Finding the Right Words?
The best obituaries begin with the memories only you can share.
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Simple Obituary Examples for Parents
Losing a parent is one of life's most difficult experiences. These simple obituary examples provide a thoughtful starting point for honoring a mother or father with warmth, dignity, and love.
Simple Obituary Example for a Mother
Mary Elizabeth Johnson, 84, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Mary devoted her life to caring for those around her. She was known for her gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and the way she made everyone feel welcome in her home. Whether sharing Sunday dinners or celebrating family milestones, she created memories that will be cherished for generations.
She is survived by her three children, eight grandchildren, and countless friends who were blessed by her kindness.
A celebration of Mary's life will be held on Saturday, February 24, at Grace Community Church.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Looking for more options? Explore our meaningful obituary examples for a mother.
Simple Obituary Example for a Father
James Robert Wilson, 79, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He enjoyed fishing, working in his garden, and cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines. More than anything, he loved spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, two children, five grandchildren, and many extended family members.
A private family service will be held.
His quiet strength and steady love will remain with his family always.
Find additional wording and inspiration in our collection of heartfelt obituary examples for a father.
Simple Obituary Example for a Stepmother
Susan Marie Carter, 68, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025.
Susan brought warmth, encouragement, and unconditional love into the lives of everyone around her. She embraced her family with an open heart and will be remembered for the traditions she created, the holidays she made special, and the kindness she shared so freely.
She is survived by her husband, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and many dear friends.
A memorial service will be announced by the family.
Her love will continue to be felt for years to come.
Simple Obituary Example for a Stepfather
David Allen Brooks, 73, passed away on January 27, 2025.
David became much more than a stepfather—he became a trusted mentor, dependable friend, and beloved member of the family. His patience, wisdom, and quiet encouragement shaped the lives of those who knew him best.
He is survived by his wife, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
His example of kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.
Simple Obituary Examples for a Husband, Wife, or Partner
The loss of a spouse or life partner is unlike any other. Whether you shared a marriage, a lifelong partnership, or many years together, these simple obituary examples honor enduring love, shared memories, and the life you built side by side.
Simple Obituary Example for a Husband
William "Bill" Anderson, 76, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, and the unwavering love he shared with his family throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, three children, six grandchildren, and many lifelong friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday at First United Methodist Church.
His love, wisdom, and steady presence will be deeply missed.
Simple Obituary Example for a Wife
Patricia Ann Thompson, 72, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025.
Patricia was the heart of her family. She found joy in caring for those she loved, celebrating life's everyday moments, and creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and kindness.
She is survived by her husband, two daughters, four grandchildren, and many cherished friends.
A celebration of Patricia's life will be held Sunday afternoon at the family church.
Her love will continue to guide her family for generations.
Simple Obituary Example for a Longtime Spouse
Richard and Margaret often said their greatest accomplishment was the life they built together.
Richard Allen Moore, 81, passed away on January 14, 2025.
He will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his integrity, and the quiet way he cared for those around him. After nearly 60 years of marriage, his greatest joy was simply spending time with the people he loved most.
He is survived by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Private family services will be held.
His legacy lives on through the family he treasured.
Simple Obituary Example for a Life Partner
Daniel James Carter, 67, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025.
Daniel shared a life filled with love, adventure, and unwavering companionship with his partner of 28 years. Together they built a home filled with laughter, welcomed friends with open arms, and created countless memories that will be treasured forever.
Daniel is survived by his loving partner, his siblings, nieces and nephews, and many close friends who became family.
A celebration of Daniel's life will be held on Saturday, September 10.
His love, generosity, and joyful spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Simple Obituary Examples for Grandparents
Grandparents leave behind far more than family trees. They leave traditions, stories, recipes, wisdom, and memories that continue to shape generations. These simple obituary examples celebrate lives filled with love, laughter, and the quiet moments that become a family's greatest treasures.
Simple Obituary Example for a Grandmother
Helen Louise Parker, 91, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025.
Helen was the heart of her family. She loved gathering everyone around her table, celebrating birthdays, baking for her grandchildren, and sharing stories that became cherished family traditions. Her kindness, patience, and unconditional love touched everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many dear friends.
A funeral service will be held Friday at St. Mark's Church.
She will forever be remembered for the love she shared so generously.
Simple Obituary Example for a Grandfather
Robert "Bob" Harrison, 88, passed away on June 18, 2025.
Bob will be remembered for his quiet wisdom, steady work ethic, and the pride he took in his family. Whether teaching his grandchildren to fish, working in his garden, or sharing stories from years gone by, he made ordinary moments unforgettable.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family.
A celebration of Bob's life will be held Saturday afternoon.
His lessons and his love will live on through the generations that follow.
Simple Obituary Example for a Beloved Grandma
Margaret Ann Lewis, 86, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025.
Known simply as "Grandma" to everyone who loved her, Margaret found joy in the simple things—family dinners, handwritten birthday cards, holiday traditions, and afternoons spent with her grandchildren. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome.
She is survived by her loving family and countless friends whose lives she touched with her warmth and generosity.
Private family services will be held.
Her legacy will continue in every tradition she began and every memory she helped create.
Simple Obituary Example for a Beloved Grandpa
Charles Edward Miller, 90, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025.
Charles lived a life defined by integrity, generosity, and quiet faith. He was happiest surrounded by his family, sharing stories from his younger days, cheering on his grandchildren, and reminding everyone that life's greatest blessings were often the simplest ones.
He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many lifelong friends.
A memorial service celebrating Charles's life will be held next week.
His example will continue to inspire his family for years to come.
Simple Obituary Example for a Great-Grandparent
Dorothy Mae Collins, 97, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025.
Dorothy's life was a remarkable gift to five generations of her family. She witnessed decades of change while remaining a constant source of love, encouragement, and wisdom. Her greatest joy was watching her family continue to grow.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many extended family members.
A funeral service will be held Monday morning.
Her life reminds us that the greatest legacy we leave is the family we nurture and the love we freely give.
Simple Obituary Examples for Children, Siblings, Aunts, Uncles and Friends
Every relationship leaves behind a different kind of memory. Whether you're honoring a beloved child, a lifelong sibling, or a treasured friend, these simple obituary examples offer a thoughtful starting point while leaving room to tell their unique story.
Simple Obituary Example for a Son
Andrew Michael Davis, 32, passed away unexpectedly on March 14, 2025.
Andrew lived with kindness, curiosity, and a heart that made friends wherever he went.
He loved spending time with his family, cheering on his favorite sports teams, and making people laugh with his quick sense of humor.
He is survived by his parents, sister, grandparents, and many extended family members and friends.
A celebration of Andrew's life will be held Saturday at Community Fellowship Church.
Though his time with us was far too short, his love and laughter will remain with us always.
Simple Obituary Example for a Daughter
Emily Grace Walker, 28, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025.
Emily was known for her compassion, creativity, and joyful spirit. Whether volunteering in her community, spending time with friends, or simply making others smile, she brought warmth and kindness into every room she entered.
She is survived by her parents, brother, grandparents, and many loving friends.
A memorial service will be held Sunday afternoon.
Her beautiful spirit will continue to inspire everyone who knew and loved her.
Simple Obituary Example for a Brother
Thomas Ryan Mitchell, 54, passed away on January 21, 2025.
Tom was a devoted brother, uncle, and loyal friend. He will be remembered for his generosity, steady encouragement, and ability to make every family gathering a little brighter with his humor and storytelling.
He is survived by his siblings, nieces and nephews, and many lifelong friends.
A private family service will be held.
His memory will forever remain a treasured part of the family he loved so deeply.
Simple Obituary Example for a Sister
Rebecca Lynn Mitchell, 57, passed away on March 6, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her.
Rebecca was a devoted sister, aunt, and friend whose compassion and sense of humor brought comfort and joy to everyone around her. She was the person family members called for honest advice, steady encouragement, or simply someone who would listen.
She is survived by her siblings, nieces and nephews, extended family, and many cherished friends.
A celebration of Rebecca’s life will be held Saturday afternoon.
Her kindness, laughter, and unwavering love will remain part of her family’s story forever.
Simple Obituary Example for an Aunt
Eleanor “Ellie” Grace Morgan, 79, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025.
Ellie was a beloved aunt, sister, and friend who brought warmth and laughter to every family gathering. She remembered every birthday, welcomed everyone into her home, and had a special way of making each niece and nephew feel deeply loved.
She is survived by her sister, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many devoted friends.
A celebration of Ellie’s life will be held Sunday afternoon.
Her joyful spirit and generous love will remain with her family for generations.
Simple Obituary Example for an Uncle
Raymond “Ray” Patrick Sullivan, 75, died on July 18, 2025.
Ray was a cherished uncle, brother, and friend known for his humor, practical wisdom, and willingness to help whenever someone needed him. He taught his nieces and nephews how to fish, fix almost anything, and never take themselves too seriously.
He is survived by his siblings, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many lifelong friends.
A private family service will be followed by a gathering to share memories of Ray’s life.
He will be remembered for the lessons he taught, the laughter he created, and the steady presence he offered to those he loved.
Simple Obituary Example for a Friend
Karen Elizabeth Morgan, 63, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025.
Karen believed that friendship was one of life's greatest gifts. Her kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others created lasting relationships that spanned decades. She will be remembered for the encouragement she offered so freely and the joy she brought into everyday life.
Karen is survived by her extended family and a wide circle of friends whose lives were made better by knowing her.
A celebration of Karen's life will be held at the local community center.
Though we say goodbye today, her friendship will continue to shape our lives for years to come.
Simple Obituary Example for Someone Who Felt Like Family
John David Collins, 71, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025.
John may not have been related by blood, but he became family to everyone who knew him. His wisdom, generosity, and unwavering support left an immeasurable impact on countless lives.
He is survived by many loving friends and the family he chose throughout his life.
A memorial gathering will be held Saturday to celebrate John's remarkable life.
His greatest legacy wasn't the things he owned—it was the people who were fortunate enough to call him family.
Short & Simple Obituary Examples for Different Situations
Every obituary is unique, but many families share the same questions when they begin writing. These examples are designed for some of the most common situations, whether you need something brief for a newspaper, are planning a private service, or simply want a straightforward way to honor a loved one's life.
Very Short Obituary Example
John Michael Harris, 84, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025.
John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family.
Private family services will be held.
Simple Newspaper Obituary Example
Patricia Ann Lewis, 78, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on June 2, 2025.
Patricia is survived by her husband, three children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at Grace Lutheran Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the local food bank.
Simple Obituary Example for a Private Family Service
William Scott Turner, 81, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025.
William lived a life defined by quiet strength, integrity, and love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In keeping with his wishes, a private family service will be held.
The family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and support during this time.
Simple Celebration of Life Obituary Example
Nancy Jo Reynolds, 74, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025.
Nancy believed every day was a gift and filled her life with laughter, friendship, and generosity. Her family invites everyone who knew her to join them in celebrating the remarkable life she lived.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 3, where family and friends are encouraged to share stories and memories.
Her joy will continue to live on in everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Families still deciding what kind of gathering feels appropriate may find Celebration of Life vs. Funeral helpful.
Simple Christian Obituary Example
David Alan Cooper, 76, entered into the presence of his Lord on February 8, 2025.
David lived a life of faith, service, and compassion. He loved his family deeply and found great joy in serving his church and community.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and many friends.
A funeral service celebrating David's life and faith will be held Sunday at First Baptist Church.
"Well done, good and faithful servant."
If faith will also shape the service, explore these Christian funeral songs and traditional hymns.
Simple Veteran Obituary Example
Robert James Miller, U.S. Army Veteran, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, at the age of 83.
Robert proudly served his country before dedicating his life to his family and community. He will be remembered for his integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to those he loved.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and fellow veterans who were honored to call him a friend.
Military honors will be presented during a graveside service on Friday afternoon.
His service to both his country and his family will never be forgotten.
Simple Obituary Example After a Long Illness
Linda Marie Carter, 69, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, after a courageous battle with illness.
Throughout her life, Linda faced every challenge with grace, faith, and remarkable strength. She will be remembered for her compassion, optimism, and the love she shared so freely with family and friends.
She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and extended family.
A memorial service celebrating Linda's life will be held the following weekend.
Though her journey has ended, the love she gave will never be forgotten.
Simple Obituary Example Without Funeral Service Details
Sarah Elizabeth Moore, 66, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025.
Sarah will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and the kindness she showed to everyone she met. Her love for family and friends will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and many dear friends.
The family asks that Sarah be remembered through acts of kindness shared with others.
Simple Obituary Example for a Mentor
Dr. Samuel Joseph Carter, 81, passed away on February 22, 2025.
Samuel was a respected teacher, mentor, and lifelong advocate for others. Throughout his career, he encouraged countless students and young professionals to believe in their abilities, pursue meaningful work, and lead with integrity.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, former students, colleagues, and many people whose lives were changed by his guidance.
A memorial service will be held Friday at the university chapel.
His influence will continue through every person he encouraged to become more than they thought possible.
Simple Self-Written Obituary Example
Thomas Edward Bennett, 73, died on August 14, 2025, after a full life shaped by family, friendship, curiosity, and more good fortune than he ever expected.
Tom spent 42 years married to his best friend, raised two children he admired deeply, and considered becoming a grandfather one of life’s greatest gifts. He loved early morning walks, old jazz records, strong coffee, and long conversations around the dinner table.
He leaves behind his wife, children, grandchildren, sister, and many friends who made his life richer.
At Tom’s request, no formal funeral will be held. His family will gather privately to share stories, laughter, and a few of his favorite songs.
He hoped to be remembered not for what he accomplished, but for how sincerely he loved the people in his life.
Planning ahead? Our guide to writing your own obituary walks through the process step by step.
How to Make a Simple Obituary Feel Personal
A simple obituary doesn't have to feel generic.
In fact, the most meaningful obituaries are often the simplest. What makes them memorable isn't their length—it's the personal details that help family and friends immediately recognize the person being remembered.
You don't need to rewrite everything.
Sometimes adding just one or two meaningful details can transform a simple obituary into a lasting tribute.
Here are a few ways to make an obituary feel more personal.
Include a Favorite Memory
Instead of simply listing accomplishments, think about a moment your family loves to remember.
Maybe they never missed one of their grandchildren's ballgames.
Maybe every Christmas included their famous homemade pie.
Maybe they greeted every neighbor by name during their evening walks.
Those small memories often tell us more about a person's life than a long list of achievements ever could.
Describe Who They Were
People are remembered for how they made others feel.
Instead of focusing only on occupations or accomplishments, include a sentence that captures their character.
For example:
She never met a stranger.
He always had time to help a neighbor.
Her laughter filled every room.
His quiet strength gave others confidence.
She made every holiday feel like home.
Those simple observations often become the most meaningful part of an obituary.
Mention the Things They Loved
Think about the hobbies, passions, and traditions that brought them joy.
Perhaps they loved:
Gardening
Fishing
Baking
Volunteering
Traveling
Attending church
Watching their grandchildren play sports
Restoring old cars
Reading on the front porch
These details help paint a picture of a real person—not just a list of dates.
Write Like You Knew Them
An obituary doesn't need to sound formal to be respectful.
In fact, the best obituaries often sound like they were written by someone who truly knew the person.
Use words your family would naturally use.
If everyone called him "Papa," say "Papa."
If she was known for making everyone laugh, don't be afraid to say so.
The goal isn't to impress strangers.
It's to help the people who loved them quietly smile and think,
"Yes...that's exactly who they were."
Don't Worry About Perfection
Many families spend hours searching for the perfect words.
The truth is, perfection isn't what people remember.
They remember honesty.
They remember love.
They remember authenticity.
A heartfelt obituary written with sincerity will always mean more than one filled with polished phrases that don't sound like the person being honored.
Sometimes the simplest words are the truest ones.
The best obituary isn't the one that's written perfectly. It's the one that sounds like the person you'll never forget.
Ready to Make It Personal?
A template gives you a place to begin.
The LifeReview® helps you remember what made their story unique.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Obituaries
What should a simple obituary include?
A simple obituary typically includes the person's full name, age, date of death, a brief summary of their life, surviving family members, funeral or memorial service information, and a closing message of remembrance. The most meaningful obituaries also include one or two personal details that reflect who the person was beyond the basic facts.
How long should a simple obituary be?
Most simple obituaries are between 150 and 300 words. Newspaper obituaries are often shorter because of publication costs, while online obituaries can be longer if the family wishes to include additional memories or photographs.
Can an obituary be only a few paragraphs?
Absolutely.
Many heartfelt obituaries are only three or four short paragraphs. What matters most isn't the length—it's that the obituary accurately reflects the person's life and provides the information family and friends need.
Is it okay to use an obituary template?
Yes.
Obituary templates are an excellent way to overcome a blank page and organize your thoughts. The best approach is to use a template as a starting point, then personalize it with memories, relationships, hobbies, and qualities that made your loved one unique.
Do I have to mention the cause of death?
No.
Sharing the cause of death is entirely the family's decision. Some families choose to include it, while others prefer to keep that information private. There is no right or wrong approach.
Can I write my own obituary?
Yes.
Many people choose to write their own obituary as part of their estate planning.
Doing so allows you to tell your story in your own words while making things a little easier for your family in the future.
What is the difference between a simple obituary and a eulogy?
An obituary announces a person's death, shares important life details, and provides funeral or memorial service information.
A eulogy is a speech delivered during a funeral or celebration of life that shares stories, memories, and reflections about the person's life.
Many families write both, but each serves a different purpose.
Final Thoughts
Writing an obituary may feel overwhelming at first.
After all, how do you summarize an entire lifetime in just a few paragraphs?
The truth is, you don't.
You simply begin with the person.
A simple obituary isn't meant to tell every story, capture every accomplishment, or preserve every memory. Its purpose is to honor a life with honesty, love, and respect while giving family and friends a way to remember someone who mattered deeply.
If your words bring a smile through someone's tears…
If they remind a grandchild of a favorite tradition…
If they help someone quietly say,
"Yes...that was them."
…then you've written exactly the obituary your loved one deserved.
Because meaningful obituaries aren't measured by how many words they contain.
They're measured by how faithfully they reflect the life behind them.
Continue Your Journey
Whether you're just getting started or looking for additional guidance, these resources can help you continue honoring your loved one's life with confidence and compassion.
If You Need Help With... | Read Next |
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At Lastly.com, Last Words Matter™
A simple obituary can tell people when someone lived.
A meaningful obituary reminds them how someone lived.
Behind every name is a lifetime of memories, relationships, traditions, and stories that deserve to be remembered. Sometimes, all it takes is the right question to bring those memories back.
The Lastly LifeReview® is a guided storytelling experience that helps families rediscover the moments that made a life unique—transforming memories into heartfelt obituaries, meaningful eulogies, and lasting LifeStories®.
Because the most meaningful tributes don't begin with a template.
They begin with remembering.
Start a LifeReview® today and discover the story that deserves to be told.
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