Newspaper Obituary Examples
Newspaper obituaries have specific guidelines—word count limits, formatting rules, and pricing (usually per line/word). Below are examples for short (budget), medium, and long newspaper obituaries, plus tips for submitting to local papers.
Short Newspaper Obituary (Budget-Friendly) ~50 words
SMITH, John Michael
1945-2024
Austin, TX
John Smith, 79, passed away March 10, 2024. Beloved husband of Mary, father of 2, grandfather of 5. WWII veteran, fisherman. Private service. Donations to Wounded Warrior Project.
Medium Newspaper Obituary ~150 words
DAVIS, Robert Lee
August 12, 1965 – April 5, 2024
Denver, CO
Robert "Bob" Davis, 59, of Denver, passed away peacefully April 5, 2024, surrounded by family. Beloved husband of Lisa (28 years), father of David (30), Sarah (27), and Emily (24), brother of Susan and James.
Bob worked as a carpenter for 35 years, was a lifelong Broncos fan, and volunteered at Denver Food Bank. Celebration of life: April 12, 2024, 2 PM at Denver Community Center, 123 Main St. Donations to Denver Food Bank.
Long Newspaper Obituary ~300 words
HARRISON, William "Bill" Sr.
September 3, 1925 – February 15, 2024
Nashville, TN
William "Bill" Harrison Sr., 98, of Nashville, passed away February 15, 2024, after a long, full life. Born in Knoxville to James and Ella Harrison, Bill served in WWII (Pacific Theater), earning a Purple Heart.
He married Margaret in 1947, raising 3 children: William Jr., Barbara, and Thomas. Bill farmed for 50 years, was a deacon at Nashville First Methodist Church, and volunteered at the VA Hospital for 30 years. He loved bluegrass music, fishing, and Tennessee football.
Preceded in death by wife Margaret (2018) and brother Robert. Survived by children, 9 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and sister Mary. Funeral with military honors: February 21, 11 AM, Nashville First Methodist Church. Interment: Nashville National Cemetery. Donations to Wounded Warrior Project.
Newspaper Obituary for Mother ~120 words
WILSON, Mary Ann
March 15, 1938 – February 18, 2024
Seattle, WA
Mary Wilson, 86, of Seattle, passed away February 18, 2024. Beloved wife of late James (60 years), mother of 4, grandmother of 8, great-grandmother of 5. Homemaker, gardener, and St. Mary’s Church volunteer for 50 years.
Private family Mass at St. Mary’s Church. In lieu of flowers, donations to Seattle Food Bank, 456 Oak St, Seattle, WA 98101.
Newspaper Obituary Submission Tips
- Check word count limits: Most papers charge by the word/line (e.g., $2-$5 per word). Short obituaries (50 words or less) are cheapest.
- Follow formatting rules: Use ALL CAPS for the last name (per newspaper style), include birth/passing dates, and keep addresses brief (city/state only).
- Submit early: Most papers require 24-48 hours notice for publication (longer for weekend/holiday editions).
- Include contact info: The newspaper will need a phone number/email to confirm details and billing.
- Proofread carefully: Newspapers charge for corrections—double-check names, dates, and spellings before submission.
- Ask about discounts: Many papers offer discounts for veterans, seniors, or pre-paid obituaries.
- Keep addresses brief: Only include the city/state (full addresses take up space and cost more).
- Use abbreviations wisely: "Sr." (Senior), "Jr." (Junior), "beloved" (instead of "lovingly remembered by") save space.
Standard Newspaper Obituary Template (Fill-in-the-Blank)
[LAST NAME], [First Name] [Middle Name/Initial]
[Birth Date] – [Passing Date]
[City, State]
[First Name] [Last Name], [Age], of [City], passed away [Date]. Beloved [husband/wife/parent/sibling/grandparent] of [Family Members]. [Brief career/hobby/volunteer work].
[Service details: Date/Time/Location or "Private family service."] In lieu of flowers, donations to [Charity Name], [Address, City, State ZIP] or online at [URL].