How to Write an Obituary: A Step-by-Step Guide for Phenix City Families

Losing someone is never easy, and obituary creation is one of the first tasks families face in the days that follow. This guide walks Phenix City, AL, families through every step of writing a meaningful tribute, from gathering basic facts to submitting a notice to local papers in the Columbus metro area.

What Is an Obituary and Why Does It Matter?

An obituary is a written announcement that honors a person's life and informs the community of their passing. It does more than share the news. It preserves a record of someone's relationships, achievements, and character that family members may carry for generations. In Phenix City, AL, and the broader Russell County community, obituaries are often shared through local funeral homes, the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, and online platforms like Legacy.com, giving neighbors and extended family a chance to pay their respects.

What Should You Include in an Obituary?

A well-written obituary typically covers several key details. Most families find it helpful to gather this information before writing a single word.

Here is what to include:

  ▸ The full legal name of the person who passed, including any nicknames they were known by.

   ▸ Date of birth, date of passing, and the city where they lived.

   ▸ A brief life history covering hometown, education, and career highlights.

   ▸ Surviving family members, listed in order of closeness (spouse, children, siblings, grandchildren).

   ▸ Loved ones who preceded them in death.

   ▸ Faith, military service, community involvement, or other meaningful affiliations.

   ▸ Details for the funeral or memorial service, including date, time, and location.

   ▸ A final sentence that captures who this person was to those who loved them.

  Keep your first draft focused on the facts. You can add warmth and personal detail in a second pass.

Who Typically Writes an Obituary?

A close family member most often writes the obituary, though anyone who knew the person well can contribute. Spouses, adult children, or siblings frequently take the lead. It can help to divide the work: one person gathers facts and dates while another drafts the narrative sections. If no one feels confident writing, a funeral home can often provide guidance or help with the wording.

How Long Should an Obituary Be?

Most obituaries run between 150 and 300 words for a standard newspaper notice. Online obituaries can be longer and may include photos, video tributes, and a guest book for condolences. For Phenix City families submitting to the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer or Legacy.com, shorter is often more practical given word-count fees that newspapers may charge. When in doubt, aim for one clear, concise page.

Should You Mention the Cause of Death?

Mentioning cause of death is a personal choice, and families are never required to include it. Many obituaries use phrases like "passed after a brief illness" or "passed peacefully at home." If the cause of death carries a stigma, families may choose to omit it entirely, and that is completely acceptable. What matters most is honoring the person, not explaining the circumstances.

How Do You Submit an Obituary to a Local Paper?

Families serving Phenix City, AL, most commonly submit to the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, which covers the Columbus-Phenix City metro area. Many funeral homes can handle this submission on your behalf and may coordinate both print and online placement. You can also submit directly through the newspaper's website. Plan to submit at least two to three days before you need the notice published to allow for editorial review.

Tips for Writing With Care and Clarity

Good obituary writing does not require professional experience. A few simple habits can make your tribute easier to read and more meaningful.

  ▸ Write in the past tense and use the person's name or a personal pronoun throughout.

   ▸ Read the draft aloud to catch anything that sounds awkward or unclear.

   ▸ Ask a second family member to review for accuracy, especially dates and the spelling of names.

   ▸ Save a copy digitally so the obituary can be shared on social media or with relatives who live out of state.

   ▸ Include a recent photo when submitting online, as images significantly increase engagement and readership.

  Obituary creation for Phenix City, AL, families does not have to feel overwhelming. Taking it step by step, with input from those who knew your loved one best, often produces the most honest and lasting tribute. Thoughtful obituary creation also ensures that the published record accurately reflects the person's life and legacy. Whether you are writing for a newspaper or an online platform, the obituary creation process benefits from careful review and a second set of eyes before submission.

Let Us Help You Honor Your Loved One

Writing an obituary is one of many details families navigate during an already difficult time. Hill-Watson Memorial Chapel can guide families serving Phenix City through the obituary creation process with compassionate, hands-on support. Their team can help you organize the details, review your draft, and coordinate local publication so nothing falls through the cracks. Reach out to their staff at (762) 524-7709 or visit their contact page to speak with someone who understands what your family is going through. You can also learn more about their full range of offerings on their funeral services page. When you are ready, Hill-Watson Memorial Chapel is here to help every step of the way.