Creating a meaningful tribute
The first details to mention are where and when someone died. For example, you could say in hospital or at home on July 15th. You may also choose to include the manner of the death, e.g. after a long/short illness, peacefully, or suddenly. Finally, you should include the age of the deceased at the end of the first sentence.
Next, you can choose to mention surviving close family members and the deceased’s relationship to them. For example, you might say something like beloved husband of Margaret, father to Jane and John and brother to David. Some people prefer to mention other relatives without naming them, e.g. He was also a devoted father-in-law and grandfather of six.
If the deceased served in the military or held prominent public roles in local or national organisations, you might include that.
Finally, you must provide the funeral arrangements, saying where it is, when it will take place and whether or not it is to be an open or private ceremony. You may also like to include livestream links if the funeral is being broadcast online.
Many families choose to ask for donations in lieu of flowers and details can be given of the preferred charity at the end of the notice.
Example Notice
Example Notice:
Smith – Peacefully after a long illness, surrounded by his loving family in the Cottage Hospital, Dundee on Monday, February 29, 2025, John, aged 101 years, beloved husband of the late Williamina (nee Jones), dearly loved father, grandfather and great-great grandfather, cherished brother and a loyal friend to many who will be sadly missed. R.I.P.
Funeral service in Dundee Crematorium on Tuesday, March 15 at 3.30 p.m. to which all family and friends are respectfully invited.
Family flowers only please but donations if desired may be made at the crematorium in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.