example of death biography

Guidance about writing an official memorial introduction

We realize you may be asking

So if you are a little uncertain as to what to include in your "official memorial introduction" to people entering your Memorial Matters' Website for your loved one for the first time - here are a few pointers to assist you. This section is a written account of a person’s life and might include:

Of course, please feel free to include whatever you are comfortable with. You might like to discuss it with a member of your family or a friend.

"After fleeing Prague during the uprising in Hungary in 1956, Josef Schumann came to Canada and married Birgetta in 1956, having met her when they both landed at Quebec City from the SS Calendulia from Hamburg. Josef brought his great practical experience as a craftsman furniture maker with him from Hungary (as well as his beloved tool set). By dint of hard work, within ten years he had built his Old Country Craftsmen Furniture Co. in the Bronx into a widely acknowledged leader in its field. Josef actively ran his company until he was 85 in 2006, when his eldest son, Friedrich took over."

How to Write a Commemorative Biography

Why Write a Commemorative Biography?

When someone close to us passes away, we are often left with a question that can be overwhelming to face:  what now? How do we live with the memory of this person? How do we share this memory? How do we preserve it? The past is what shapes us, and remembering those we have loved and lost is an important part of living mindfully and building future relationships. Though there are a number of different ways through which one can preserve memories– photographs, memorial services, and other acts of remembrance– the writing of commemorative biographies is a practice that can be both deeply personal, as well as highly informative for future generations.

Why Collect Records?

In addition to having therapeutic emotional and mental benefits, writing down the life story of a loved one has a number of practical benefits as well. For example, by contributing to genealogical records, you are contributing to accessible records which may aid future generations in garnering a better understanding of their family history and relationships, as well as the development of their communities.

Unlike in the past when records such as these were often difficult to access as they existed in hard copy in specific locations, online access to genealogical records has increasingly become the norm. Just as grieving in the “digital age” has dramatically changed the ways in which grief is expressed as engaged with (via online grief support forums , for example), the ways in which the lives of those we lose are documented and preserved has also adapted. Qeepr’s own online memorials are exemplary of this, as we provide an online platform which can be personalized for recording and preserving the life stories of loved ones.

With our memorial profiles, you can record as much or as little personal information as you choose about those who have passed away; providing space to include all basic information about the individual (place of birth, occupation, family members, etc.), as well as offering the opportunity to share personal memories and anecdotes, upload pictures, videos, and write condolence messages. These kinds of biographical pages are both invaluable sources of information, as well as personal spaces for sharing memories and working through grief.

Top 3 Biography Writing Tips

• Draw information from everyone around you: Writing the life of someone is not something that can be done completely by a single person. It is important when writing a commemorative biography to speak to others who were close to the deceased. This includes family members, close friends, coworkers: anyone who spent time with the person who you have lost. By speaking to as many people as possible and noting how they perceived that person as well as stories of times they shared will lend itself to the development of a much richer biography.
• Gather as many documents as you can:   Gather marriage records, old photographs and videos, letters, citizenship documents, birth and death certificates- any documentation that speaks to aspects of the deceased’s life. These kinds of physical pieces of documentation are important for reference when writing a biography, and also can be scanned and added to any digital profile you are creating.

• Collect more than just records:  We all have drawers full of photographs and chances are our family members do as well! On a recent trip to visit family, one Qeepr team member found a stack of photos of their great-grandparents from the late 1800s. You can make the hunt for genealogical records that much more exciting by searching for family photos and digitizing them for everyone to enjoy.

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How to write an obituary.

Writing an obituary is an act of love that can accomplish many things. At its core, an obituary is a declaration of loss, an acknowledgement of grief, and an expression of joy all-in-one. It celebrates the life of a loved one in a way that few other ways can.

Beyond what an obituary can accomplish emotionally, an obituary also has logistic importance, as it acts as an official notice of death that lets the community know of a loss. Historically, this communication of a death would happen via newspaper, where a family member would pay a newspaper several hundred dollars to publish an obituary and obituaries would be listed on an obituary section of the paper. However, on Ever Loved , you can write and publish an obituary online when you create a free online memorial website for a loved one. In addition to acting as a death announcement, an obituary can also be used to communicate service, burial, and memorial information and prescribe ways to donate to a cause, send flowers, volunteer, and help the bereaved.

An obituary is also a final tribute to a life well-lived, as it briefly recounts a loved one’s life as a short biography. It can be used to portray the arch of a loved ones life – from birth, through life, and arriving at death – and provide a symbolic closure to a person’s story.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an obituary. We've also written a few obituary templates for you in case you need to write your own. We hope this obituary writing help can provide you with the tools you need to honor a loved one while also following traditional practices.

1. Announce the death

Writing a death announcement in the first paragraph serves the purpose of letting the community know the details surrounding the loss of a loved one. Typically included in a death announcement are a loved one’s name, age, and place of residence, along with the time and place of death.

When writing a death announcement, it is common to use any of the following phrases:

• Beloved mother, sister, and friend
• Peacefully passed away
• Died after a long struggle with
• Passed after a hard fought battle with
• Entered fully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on August 13, 2017
• Returned to his heavenly home on January 29, 2014

As you write a death announcement, be sure to think about how the message will be perceived by friends, family, and the bereaved. For example, when you consider if you will write that a loved one “died” or “peacefully passed away,” what tone do you feel would be most appropriate for the context in which your loved one passed? Some may think that “died” is too strong, while others may prefer to state the facts as they are rather than use softer words like “pass.”

Another example would be the difference between “long struggle with” or “hard fought battle with.” Depending on the appropriate tone and context, there may be an argument for choosing one way of wording a phrase over another.

2. Tell their story as a brief biography

The biography section of an obituary is an impactful way of honoring the life of a loved one in a few paragraphs. There isn’t a defined maximum or minimum requirement for writing a biography, so don’t feel discouraged to write more if you feel like adding personal stories or emotions. But typically a brief biography will include important life events and milestones such as:

• Date and place of birth
• Parent’s names including mother’s maiden name in parentheses e.g. William and Jane (Maiden name) Johnson
• Date and place of marriage, including birth name of spouse
• Military Service
• Passions and hobbies

Tip: Before you begin writing an obituary, make sure to interview friends and family to gather notes about their life. While not every memory will be able to make it into the brief biography, your time interviewing family members can help you place a loved one’s life events in chronological order and discover passions and hobbies you may not have known about a loved one–not to mention also being a therapeutic exercise when grieving the loss of a loved one.

As you write a biography, be sure to consider how you might bring a loved one’s story to life with a few anecdotes, memories, and even inside jokes that readers might appreciate. Remember: this is an opportunity to commemorate a loved one in a way that they would want to be remembered. If they loved music, why not list a few of their favorite songs! If they were passionate about the outdoors, talk about their favorite places! Of course it’s all up to you.

3. Name their family members

Naming a loved one’s family members when writing an obituary has a lot of value and often can be seen as a way to connect a family around the life of one family member. For one, it gives community members a way to know who is a part of the family and therefore who might be grieving and need attention. Additionally, naming family members can serve the purpose of honoring those who have previously passed while making a tribute to the bereaved.

There are two key phrases that you need to be able to differentiate to avoid confusion and possibly even embarrassing family members:

• When listing family members who are still living , it is common to use phrases such as “survived by”.
• When listing family members who have previously passed away , it is common to use the phrase “preceded in death by” or “predeceased by.”

Remember: when listing family members, it's best practice to include close family such as parents, siblings, a spouse, children, and grandchildren. It’s common to name parents, siblings, a spouse, and children while it is less common to name all grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Once you’ve identified the list of family members who you will want to include when writing an obituary, its common to use a semicolon (;) to indicate a pause between two statements. See an example of how to mention family members:

Bob is survived by his wife, five children and eight grandchildren as well as his sisters, Nila (Gigi), Nina, Norri, Dede and Carrie; his brothers, Danny and Mike (Toot); Son-in-Law Eric Jahnke; Daughter-in-Law Maia Conkey and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Margo and Samuel.

4. Outline service times, locations, and details

It is common for obituaries to list out funeral events, locations, times, and details so that community members know when and how to attend any events taking place. See an example of how to list funeral events:

A Memorial Service will be held at the American Legion Post 398 in Mound, MN on Thursday November 16 at 12pm (noon) followed by a banquet to celebrate Bobby's life; all are welcome.

Tip: On Ever Loved , it’s easy to list out funeral events with rich information such as maps in an elegant design. In addition, you can collect RSVPs to funeral events to make it easier to plan for the number of people who will attend the funeral events.

5. Special messages

Special messages are optional, but can add a touching finish to an already emotional obituary. Common special messages that are included at the end of an obituary include:

• Thanks given to the staff of a certain hospital, hospice, or nursing home (including doctors and nurses)
• “Flowers can be sent to” is a phrase commonly used to help instruct community members on ways in which they can send flowers. You can specify that “ flowers can be purchased on Ever Loved here ” if it makes it easier. Of course if you prefer to deter community members from donating flowers, you can use the phrase “in lieu of flowers” to instruct community members on other ways they can contribute. (This is often used when people prefer donations to a cause instead of flowers sent, for example.)
• A short prayer or poem can also add a nice touch

Photos can typically be added to obituaries published on newspapers for an additional fee. If you’re planning on publishing your obituary on Ever Loved , it’s free to create a page where you can share memories and collect pictures, memories, and condolences as part of creating an online memorial.

It’s important to get obituary writing help since an obituary can help express what’s at times hard to say, especially while grieving. An obituary can help acknowledge and announce the death so that a community may come together, commemorate a life well lived, and be provided with ways that they can participate in celebrating the life of a loved one. The best obituaries aren’t ones that are the most expensive to publish in a newspaper, rather obituaries that are well-written and are written from the heart are ones that stand out and stay with people forever. If you're struggling to get started on an obituary, you can also always check out some free obituary templates .

Interested in publishing an obituary for free? Create a memorial website for a loved one on Ever Loved to get started and add an obituary, funeral events, track RSVPs, add photos, and more. You can also use Ever Loved's AI obituary writer to get help with writing an obituary.

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Find a funeral home, get free grief support, top free obituary templates.

Writing an obituary can be hard, but you don’t need to go without help. That’s why we’ve put together a collection of free obituary templates, obituary examples and obituary samples to help you write an amazing obituary for your loved one. Each one is an easy-to-follow, fill-in-the-blank obituary te

How to Find a Grave, Cemetery or Death Record

Finding the grave of a loved one can be challenging, especially when families are more spread out across the US today than ever before. If you’re looking for a grave of a family member overseas, then it will likely require even more patience. But with a few tips, you can get started in the next few

What is an Obituary?

Have you been tasked with finding out how to write an obituary for a family member but don't know where to start? You've come to the right place. This article gives you information on what an obituary is, examples of an obituary you can post online, and can give you tools to get started with writing

Want to publish an obituary for free?

• Death Announcements

22 Great Obituary Examples for Friends & Family

Updated 12/28/2023

Published 05/22/2020

Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Even if you write quite a bit for your job or fun, you likely have little to no experience  writing obituaries .

After all, most people only write obituaries for their closest family members — and even then, it’s not uncommon to assign this task to professionals who do it every day.

If you recently lost a loved one, you may want to write their obituary yourself since you know them better than anyone else. To get you started, we’ve compiled examples of many different types of obituaries that you can use as a jumping-off point.

Jump ahead to these sections:

Obituary example for parents, obituary example for grandparents, obituary example for a spouse, obituary example for a sibling, obituary example for an only child, obituary example for a minor, obituary examples for veterans or fallen soldiers, obituary examples for teenagers, obituary examples for an infant, obituary examples for a friend, obituary example for a blended family, obituary example for a young adult, obituary example for an ex-partner or spouse, obituary example for a work colleague, obituary example for a loved one who died from addiction, obituary example for a loved one who died suddenly, uplifting or funny obituary examples, places you can post an obituary for a loved one, the most difficult writing task you’ll ever do.

Tip: Creating an online memorial page is a quick and easy way to share an obituary, post and update funeral details, and even collect donations for funeral expenses or a charity.

What Should You Include in an Obituary?

It’s important to remember that an obituary isn’t a legal document. Since most newspapers charge the family to print an obituary, it isn’t necessarily a news article either.

Instead, it’s a unique type of article that gives notice of your loved one's death . Additionally, an obituary tells the event details of the end-of-life services and a brief biographical account of their life.

Since the family of the deceased typically writes the obituary ( or gives the obituary writer details to include ) , it’s up to their discretion on what to cover — and, conversely, what to avoid.

Once you’re ready to write, you should consider adding :

• The deceased’s full name
• Birth and death dates
• Age of death
• Cause of death
• Name of parents
• Community involvement
• Church and club membership
• Names and relationships of survivors
• Time, date, and place of the memorial service
• Memorial donation information

Here are some obituary examples and snippets to get you started. 

You probably feel like you know your parents well , b ut when it comes to writing their obituary, you may challenge yourself to include early details about their life .

Writing about your parent before you were born can prove difficult , so you might want to talk with others who knew them from different times in their life.

Consider reaching out to siblings, childhood friends, work associates, or people from their current social circle. You might uncover some truly remarkable things about the person you thought you knew so well.

Of course, you may also learn a bit more about your parents by looking through scrapbooks and boxes of mementos they left behind.

For example, you might discover that your modest service member father was honored for an act of bravery or that your mother had quietly been publishing some of the poetry she wrote through the years.

Example one

Susan Louise (Thompson) Jones, 85, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, March 28, 2020. She was surrounded by her four children and husband of 55 years.

Susan was born on January 13, 1935, on her family’s farm near Smithville, Illinois. She was the fourth of nine children of Michael and Louise (Robinson) Thompson. Susan loved growing up with her large family and helping on the farm, but she hated taking care of the chickens. She often told the story of being chased by the mean rooster and preferred spending time in the garden or caring for the lambs.

Susan was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She doted on her family and was happiest when her large brood surrounded her. She hosted large Sunday dinners almost every week where her family feasted on fried chicken and lemon meringue pie.

Example two

Samuel Chester McDonald was finally reunited with the love of his life on April 2, 2020. His beloved wife of 68 years, Laura Ann (Smith) McDonald, died in 2014, and Samuel spent the last six years talking about how much he was looking forward to seeing her in heaven.

Samuel lived a long, happy life and died peacefully in his sleep at the Centerville Hospice Center after a short battle with lung cancer. He is survived by three children, Rose (Michael) Porter, Mary (Doug) Winters, and Sammy (Dorothy) McDonald. He was a beloved Papa to 14 grandchildren and recently became a great-grandfather when little Charlotte McDonald was born in February to his oldest grandson and his wife.

Samuel worked hard all his life as an employee of the BNSF Railroad. He loved trains and even had a large model train in his basement that he loved sharing with his grandkids and friends. 

Your grandparents lived a large portion of their lives before you were born.

So even though you think of your grandpa as the gray-haired man who wore cardigan sweaters and passed out butterscotch candies, he was so much more .

To write an obituary that honors a life well-lived, you might need to do some research. Talk with your parents, aunts and uncles, and family friends who knew them at different stages of their lives. Otherwise, the obituary will paint the portrait of how your grandparents lived since you’ve known them.

It’s easy to pigeonhole a person but avoid doing so when writing an obituary. Instead, talk about their careers, military service, hobbies, and interests. And yes, you can also write about what they were like as grandparents — including the fact that your grandpa always passed out butterscotch candies and smelled of Old Spice .

While your goal is to write about their entire lives, you also should add details about what made them special to you.

While some retirees spend their time on the golf course or playing cards, Michael spent his golden years volunteering in the community. He delivered meals to shut-ins, administered communion to the elderly at local nursing homes, tutored children at the local library’s afterschool program, and built hundreds of birdhouses for local parks. Michael had a servant’s heart and lived by 1 Peter 4:10: “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”  

Michael also loved spending time with his sons and their families. As a physical educator for 28 years, he loved organizing his family into teams for softball games, bean bag tournaments, and pull-up competitions.

Grandma Joyce was a keeper of things. She had enough plastic butter tubs to hold every leftover in the tri-county area. She collected coffee grounds, aluminum pie pans, toilet paper rolls, egg cartons, and bread bags. She was the queen of “reduce, reuse, recycle” before it became a popular way of life. 

She also had many passions. Grandma Joyce loved the Texas Rangers, “The Price is Right,” Janet Evanovich novels, and bingo. But Grandma Joyce’s favorite things were her flowers. She grew every variety of iris, peonies, clematis, and chrysanthemum. The members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church will surely miss the altar bouquets that she provided most weeks.

Writing the obituary for someone you were close to is never easy , but writing the obituary for your life partner may be especially difficult.

When faced with this task, some people find it challenging to narrow down the details they include . For example, you may feel compelled to explain what made your spouse special — and the love of your life.

Give yourself plenty of time to write the obituary of a loved one. First, talk with others about the details to include and write a draft. Then, let them read it and allow it to sit untouched overnight.

Loss is a traumatic event, and you may find it too hard to form coherent thoughts. There’s nothing wrong with choosing someone else in the family to write your spouse’s obituary.

Walter Michael Shone, loving husband and father, died unexpectedly on February 18, 2020, at his home. 

Walter was born on April 28, 1972, to Peter and Sandra (Tipp) Shone. His parents were quick to notice Walter’s love of music, which began at an early age. They hired a piano instructor when he was three, and began his lifelong love of the instrument. 

Walter was active in Centerville High School’s music program all four years and then went on to study music education at Iowa State University. He taught high school band and choir for 22 years.

Michelle did not let her cancer diagnosis slow her down. She volunteered in her daughter’s classroom every week, even during radiation treatments. Michelle maintained a positive attitude throughout her illness and showed more concern for her husband and daughters than for herself.

Her family asks that contributions be made to her alma mater, Saint Mary’s College. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in art history and was passionate about spreading the love of arts throughout her community.

When a person dies, there’s no requirement that somebody must write an obituary , and p eople approach obituary writing in many different ways.

The obituary for your sibling or any other loved one may read like a news article. There are many free templates online , which allow you to fill in the blanks with your loved one's details so that the obituary practically writes itself.

However, some choose to include details about their loved one's personality. They might consist of funny or poignant stories about the deceased that make the reader laugh or cry.

When writing the obituary for your sibling or any other loved one, think about your preferred style. There’s no right or wrong way . However, most would say that obituaries are not the place to air old grievances or disclose unflattering information .

Beth was a wonderful sister and friend. She hosted countless weddings and baby showers, brought soup to her friends and family when they were sick, left small gifts for people on their doorsteps when they were having a bad day, and was kind to all. Her vivacious and giving spirit will be missed by many.

Even though Beth was taken too soon, she lived an extraordinary life surrounded by people who adored her. Please join us as we celebrate this special person’s life at 1 p.m. on Friday, November 8, at St. Andrew’s Church in Albuquerque.

Example two 

George loved a good practical joke and spent a lot of time planning elaborate tricks on his brothers and nephews. The only person who was ever spared from his good-natured trickery was his mother, who had taught him everything she knew about planning a good prank.

George also enjoyed deer hunting, fishing for catfish, sitting around a campfire, and making his own beer. His constant companion was his German Shepherd , Max.

Example three

Jane Marie Smith of Petersburg, Illinois, died in the Petersburg Hospice Center on Monday, March 30, 2023 . She was 58 at the time of death. 

Smith was born on July 3, 1965 , to parents George and Marie (Porter) Smith. She was the third of three girls. As a child, Jane loved horses and spent every waking moment at the nearby Petersburg Horse Barn, where her father worked. She began working there in her early teens, and aside from leaving for a brief time for training in North Carolina, she spent her entire career at the facility. She took over her father’s job after George passed in 1998 . Smith devoted her life to her work and thousands of riders throughout her career.

Smith was also a dedicated daughter and loving sister who doted on her six nieces and nephews. She was the fun aunt who spoiled the family’s youth and took them on adventures on their 16th birthdays.

Smith will be missed by many. Those who would like to honor her with a memorial contribution are asked to contribute to the Jane Smith Scholarship fund, which will be awarded to a local high school student each year who plans to work in an animal-related industry.

Example four

Jose Garcia of Huntsville, Alabama, went home to Jesus on May 3, 2021 . He was 88 at the time of his passing.

Garcia was born to Jorge and Maria (Sanchez) Garcia on September 8, 1933 . He was the fourth of four boys and spent his time trying to keep up with his older, active brothers. Perhaps because of this early, active lifestyle, Garcia excelled in track. He won the state title for the 800 meters .

Garcia earned his Bachelor of Science in secondary education with an emphasis in math from the University of Alabama, and he began working as a middle school math teacher and track coach in the Huntsville school district. He taught and coached thousands of students throughout his career. 

Garcia left behind one older brother, Jorge (Juanita) Garcia, and fourteen nieces and nephews. He was a devoted brother and proud uncle, and he spent a lot of time attending his nieces’ and nephews’ sports events. 

The family is hosting a visitation at the Porter Funeral Home in Huntsville on May 6, 2021 , at 5:30 in the evening. The Rosary will be recited at 6:30. The funeral will be held at St. Luke’s Catholic Church on May 7, 2021 , at 9 a.m. He will be laid to rest at the St. Luke Cemetery immediately following the funeral service.

There are no particular guidelines for writing the obituary of an only child. You would include the same details that typically appear in any obituary: the birth and death dates, the deceased's occupation, and (sometimes) the cause of death.

The main difference in writing the obituary for an only child would be the section listing the survivors or those who died before your loved one. Traditionally, this list includes the deceased's spouse, their parents, their children, perhaps their grandparents, and their siblings. However, these aren’t definitive rules.

If the deceased was close to their cousins, you might include those names in the "survived by" section of the obituary. You could also list good friends, pets, or anyone else who will mourn them .

Samantha Kane, 23, died after sustaining injuries from a car accident on October 28, 2019. She was the only child of Phillip and Rose Kane, who survived at the family home.

Miss Kane was a recent graduate of Creighton University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in business administration. She was recently hired at Cole and Sons as an account executive and was looking forward to beginning her professional career.

Mr. King is survived by his fiance, Bernice Smith, and his parents, Stewart and Patricia (Porter) King. 

Mr. King’s memorial service will be held on Friday, March 13, at 2 p.m. at Davidson’s Funeral Home in Winchester, Idaho. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations to the American Cancer Society be made in his name. 

Writing the obituary for a child can be a heartwrenching experience. Please realize that it's okay to seek help no matter the deceased's age.

The staff of a full-service funeral home may assist you with this process. You can also reach out to the minister or officiant leading the service. Of course, family and friends will also want to support you during your hour of need.

We know that many of the items on our “list of things to include in an obituary” may not be relevant for a child. However, you should still celebrate their life even though they didn’t have the opportunity to have a spouse, children, or career.

Instead, w rite about their interests and favorite activities. Who was their favorite band? What was their favorite movie or TV series? Include details about their personality.  

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our sweet baby, Sophia Andrea Krugg. Although Sophia only lived seven months, she brought great joy to her family. They are heartbroken by her loss.

Sophia is meeting her maternal grandparents, Ralph and Cindy Schmidt, in heaven. She is survived by her parents, Michael and Kathy Krugg; a stepsister, Julianne Krugg; grandparents Andrew and Blythe Krugg; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

Zeke was a bright and inquisitive child. He enjoyed taking things apart and attempting to put them back together. Even when going through his cancer treatment, Zeke was fascinated with all the machines in the hospital and kept the nurses on their toes by asking how everything worked. 

Zeke also liked playing with Legos, listening to country music, playing with his cat Ralphie, and watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. 

He is survived by his mother, Priscilla Jones, and his stepfather, Mike; his father, Rick Abernathy, and his stepmother, Sasha; a half - brother, Samuel Abernathy; and stepsister Bethany Jones.

Did your loved one serve in the military? Include their service details, even if they may make up the bulk of the obituary. If your loved one died serving our country, explain to others how they made the ultimate sacrifice.

If you were not close to the deceased or are unsure about protocols , you may need to research to understand the type of information you should include.

For example, most military obituaries feature the service member’s branch and rank. You may also include where and when they served , their job, and any decorations or honors they received from their service.

Sam took great pride in his military career. He completed Ranger School in 1963 at Fort Benning, GA, and served two combat tours in Vietnam. From 1968 to 1970, his station was in the Philippines, and in 1976-79, he served a tour in Germany . He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 20 years of active duty. His decorations include a Bronze Star and many other commendations and citations awarded during his two decades of selfless service to his country. 

Sam spent a great deal of his free time volunteering for veterans’ organizations and civic groups during retirement. Sam also volunteered at voting precincts each election day and faithfully displayed the Stars and Stripes in front of his home. He was a proud American. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the DAV or Wounded Warriors Project.

Maria (Smith) Thompson, 78, passed away after a brief illness on Monday, April 24, 2015, at the Johnson Military Hospital in Detroit, Michigan.  

Maria was born in Panama and became a U.S. citizen in 1957. She never returned to her native country.

Maria was a proud American and served in the U.S. Army for twenty-two years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. She received an Honorable Discharge due to medical reasons.

After her military service, Maria went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and worked as a case manager for ten years. She specialized in assisting military members transition back into civilian life. 

Her three children and 12 grandchildren deeply loved her. She was an avid baker and reader and was active in the First Christian Church of Detroit.

Her service will be held on Thursday, April 27, at First Christian Church at 10 a.m.

She’ll be buried with her husband, George, who preceded her in death in 2013. 

It’s human nature to wonder about the cause of death when a young person dies.

However, when writing an obituary for a teenager, the question “ W hat happened?” may cause additional grief or anger. Don’t feel pressured to disclose this information .

There are valid reasons why families choose to disclose the cause of death. Some may set the record straight to stop rumors from spreading in the community.

Obituary writers may include the phrase "as the result of an accident" or "after a [long/short] illness," which gives the generic cause without disclosing too many details.

Sometimes, families disclose their teenager's cause of death in hopes of preventing another tragedy.

Sally Marie Smith, 16, went to be with her Lord on April 22, 2018. Sally passed away from injuries sustained from a car accident on that same day.

Sally was born on February 20, 2002, to parents Sam and Silvia Smith. Her parents, siblings Stephanie and Steve, and her precious beagle “Pickle” survive her.

Sally attended Sweet Valley Grade School, where she participated in Art Club and Girls on the Run. She then spent sixth through eighth grade at Spring Town Middle School, where she excelled in the clarinet and running cross country.

Sally was a junior at Spring Town High School, where she was involved in many clubs and activities. She was junior class president, a member of the National Honor Society, and first chair clarinet in the school’s concert band.

Services for Sally will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, April 26, at Spring Town Funeral Home. The family requests that attendees wear purple, which was Sally’s favorite color. 

Michael was a friend to everyone. His cheerful disposition and likable personality made it difficult to understand the severe depression he was experiencing. However, Michael took his own life on Saturday, April 26, 2019.

If you are thinking about suicide or are worried about a friend or loved one, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. The Lifeline is open to everyone. Call 1-800-273-8255 for free and confidential help.

The family also encourages parents to understand the signs of depression . These may include:

• Sadness (with or without crying)
• Lack of energy and/or motivation
• Temper outbursts and/or violent episodes
• Easily irritated
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Little or no appetite, or eating too often
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities usually enjoyed (including school activities)
• Feelings of fear (even if there is no conscious reason)
• Feelings of extreme guilt or shame
• Inability to concentrate
• Poor memory
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Worsening grades
• Skipping school or classes
• Self-critical remarks
• Feelings of helplessness to change a situation
• Feelings that things will never get better
• Comment(s) about death or dying
• Writing, drawing, or listening to music about hopelessness, guns, or death
• Threatening suicide (even in a joking manner)

Each year, about 24,000 infants are stillborn in the United States . There’s no right or wrong way to commemorate the lives of these or any other infants.

If you’re drawn into writing an obituary for your son or daughter , you might include details about how their birth was “highly anticipated” — or that their life was a “brief gift” for the family.

Writing the obituary of an infant who died hours, days, or months after birth can be an extremely emotional experience. You might include descriptions of the child’s smile or laugh while also telling others the joy the child brought to your family.

Here are some sample snippets for an obituary for an infant.

Sally Marie Smith was stillborn on Monday, April 22, 2020. Sally was the treasured daughter of Peter and Penelope (Porter) Smith. Among those mourning her loss include her siblings, Sam, Mark, and Simon. Other survivors include paternal grandparents Gerald and Mary Smith and maternal grandparents Roger and Rita Porter.

Sally’s birth was highly anticipated by many as she was the only girl in a family of three boys and 13 male first cousins. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to MEND or another infant-loss support organization.

The family would like to thank the staff of St. Luke’s Hospital in Cleveland for their caring support following the loss of their daughter. They would also like to thank friends and extended family members for the meals and childcare provided over the last several weeks.

The family will be honoring Sally at a private ceremony. 

With a broken heart, we announce the death of our beloved baby, Michael Samuel Smith. 

Michael was born three weeks ago, on March 9, 2019. He had a congenital heart defect at birth, of which there was no treatment or cure. We treasured the time we had with our precious baby, and we were with him as he took his last breath and went into the loving arms of Jesus.

Even though Michael was not long on this Earth, he brought us great joy. His favorite place to be was in the arms of his mother, and he spent most of his life in her loving embrace. 

We want to thank the staff of Menorah Medical Center and Menorah Hospice for the love they showered on our little Michael, as well as the support they have given us over the last several weeks. 

Anybody — including the family, the funeral home staff, or a long-time friend — can write an obituary.

Keep in mind that an obituary is different from a eulogy , even though modern obituaries sometimes have phrases similar to what you would find in a speech at a wake or funeral.

Typically, an obituary includes facts about the life of the deceased , so you may need to spend time with the next of kin to gain insight .

Being asked to write the obituary for a close friend is a great honor. When you’re finished, present it to the family for approval before posting it online or publishing it in the newspaper.

Michael was a good friend to many. His friends knew that the party was about to get good when he arrived with his bongos. He could entertain people for hours with stories about his time in the service and oft-repeated jokes about his loving mom. 

Even though Michael’s entire family preceded him in death, he was never alone. The list of survivors and those who mourn his death are in the hundreds. 

Instead of a traditional funeral, his friends organized a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 22, 2018, at The Hang Out on 22nd Street in Peoria. At that time, we will be collecting donations for his end-of-life expenses. All money above and beyond those expenses will be used for a scholarship in his name. Organizers of the event are also requesting that attendees wear Hawaiian shirts in honor of our friend. 

Sister Maria Sanchez, 100, passed away on October 8, 2020, at the convent where she lived, surrounded by all the Sisters of her religious community.

Sister Maria was born in Puerto Rico on March 12, 1921. On February 8, 1946, she entered religious life and professed her temporary vows on September 3, 1949. Later that year, she came to Boston, MA, professed her perpetual vows on December 9, 1955.

Those who knew her will remember Sister Maria for her humility, kindness, simplicity, and eternal smile. She had a special love for her work in a nursing home near her parish. She joyfully lived her consecration to God in total dedication to the service of the sick and her Sisters.

Sister Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Roderick and Maria Sanchez, and several brothers and sisters. She is survived by her sisters Rosa and Elizabeth.

Friends may pay their respects at St. Michael’s Chapel, 800 N. 18th St., Boston, MA on October 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. The Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m., and the Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on October 13 at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Saint Michael Cemetery.

Consider everyone’s feelings as you write an obituary. Unfortunately, poor word choice s or excluding someone from the list of survivors may hurt feelings, making the relationship challenging to repair. 

You should also consider how you’d label people in an obituary. For example, some prefer to name stepchildren as “children,” but others feel the need to make a designation. Again, though, this isn’t a legal document, so it’s up to you to decide how to frame everything .

Here are sample obituaries for blended families, with a special focus on the list of survivors.

Brenda left behind her husband, Marcos, who survives in the home. Other survivors include her daughter, Penelope (Michael) Ruiz; her stepson Peter (Samantha) Smith; and her stepdaughter Frida Smith (Sandra Porter). Brenda was also the loving Nana to four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Survivors include his four children and their spouses, Peter and Sally Smith of Lakeville; George Smith and Michael Rodriguez of Smithville, Ethan and Petunia Carter of St. Mary; and Norman and Susan Johnson of Shawnee. 

Tony had three daughters with his first wife (Barbara, Nancy, and Edith) and two sons with his second wife (Michael and Alexander). Tony also had two stepdaughters (Nancy and Dominique).

The couple adopted Susan Jane in 1997 and Brian Christopher in 1999 . While his marriage with Sheila did not last, both went on to remarry. They, and their new spouses, raised exceptional children.

Example five

Roger Bramble of Prairie Village passed away on March 3, 2018 , at the Prairie Village Hospital. He was 76. Bramble was a loving father, stepfather , grandfather, and uncle. He will be missed by many.

The memorial service will be held at the Prairie Village Funeral Home on March 7 at 2 p.m. The family requests visitors to wear New England Patriots jerseys and spirit wear. 

Example six

Cynthia was raised by her mother, Rachel, and her stepfather Michael Smith alongside her father, Peter, and her stepmother Susan. All of her parents preceded her in death. 

Cynthia was survived by her husband, Roger , and t heir children Zoey, Matthew, Luke, and her stepson Simon.

Example seven

Meredith was a loving stepmother to her husband’s three daughters. 

Survivors include her husband Brad; stepdaughters Halee, Hannah, and Kylie; sister Georgina (Samuel) Porter; and brother Michael (Sandra) Smith. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son Peter, who died as an infant.

While many obituaries can celebrate a long life, some people are taken too soon.

When writing an obituary for a young adult , you might consider whether the family wishes to disclose the cause of death. However , you have no legal obligation to reveal that information .

Another issue that might come up when a young person dies is whether or not to include the name of their boyfriend or girlfriend. Of course, families handle this differently.

You may consider the length of the relationship and the age of those involved . You should also ask for the significant other’s opinion , as they may feel uncomfortable being listed as a survivor.

Here are examples to help you write an obituary for a young adult.

Samantha (Sammy) Peters of Smithville, Oregon, passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2019 . She was 23. The death was the result of an accidental drug overdose.

Samantha was born to parents Gregory and Shirley Peters on October 30, 1996 . Her birth was followed by twin brothers (Ethan and Edgar) two years later.

Samantha went to Smithville Grade School, Northeast Middle School, and Smithville High School. She was beloved by her classmates, was elected president of her senior class, and was active in debate and forensics. In addition, she played Dorothy in the school’s production of Wizard of Oz and countless parts in other school productions.

Samantha was survived by her parents, her twin brothers, and her boyfriend, Steve Welch. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Albert and Sylvia Shang, and her paternal grandparents, Alan and Beatrice Peters.

Those who wish to donate in Mary’s name are asked to do so with Sunrise House, a shelter for battered women. The family also requests that those attending the funeral wear purple, Mary’s favorite color.

With extreme sadness, we announce the passing of Dan Dooley. Dan was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed by many. 

Dan passed away, surrounded by his family at his home, on September 3, 2017 . He had bravely fought brain cancer for two years.

Even though an ex-partner or spouse isn’t typically in charge of writing the obituary for their ex , this situation does come up, especially if the deceased had few other family and friends.

More commonly, the deceased’s ex might’ve played a significant role in their lives , meaning they could potentially be included in the list of survivors. In any event, it’s a delicate situation.

Here are some obituary examples that mention an ex-partner or spouse.

Although Sally and Thomas expected to remain together forever, their relationship ended in 1989. However, they continued to stay friends for the rest of their lives.

Survivors include his ex-wife and mother of his girls, Charlotte Scott; daughters Margaret and Chloe; and his sister Beatrice and her husband, Nicky. 

Thomas was married to Teresa Babcock on March 4, 1974 . The couple had three daughters: Trina, Tricia, and Tiffany. The marriage ended in divorce in 2011 , but the couple remained friends for the rest of their lives.

Patrick married Melanie Jones in 1967 . The marriage ended in divorce. Patrick then married the love of his life, Sabrina, in 1989 .

Survivors include Sabrina Jones of Horton, daughter Patty Jackson of Detroit, and one granddaughter Holly Jackson of Detroit.

Daniel Everett Morris, 63, passed away on July 6, 2023 , from an unexpected heart attack. Daniel is survived by his loving wife, Cassandra. He was a proud father to two sons: Jason and David. Daniel was preceded in death by his first wife, Megan Davies Morris, and his parents, Colonel Patrick Morris and Maria Robinson Morris.

A short graveside ceremony will be held on Friday, July 10, 2023 , at the Knoxville Cemetery, followed by a reception at the deceased’s home.

Colby is survived by his parents, Tony and Lisa Ouellette, his sister Jennifer, and his ex-long-time partner Michael.

As a colleague of the deceased, you probably won’t be tasked with writing the obituary. However, you might need to announce their death to others within your organization.

Here are examples of death announcements in the workplace.

It is with great sadness that I must announce the death of Michael Wainwright Ashbury, President of Ashbury Enterprises. Michael passed away yesterday in his home. He was 69.

During his tenure as president, Michael opened offices in Tokyo, Berlin, and London. He was also integral in the development of the Micron 200X, which increased the availability of our product to more remote areas of the world.

Besides being our corporate leader, Michael was a leader in our industry. He was often asked to speak to congressional leaders.

Michael was survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Judith, and their husky, Micky.

We are sorry for announcing this news in this manner, but Jane Smith, head of the accounting department, died this morning as a result of a car crash. Her family has been notified.

Many of us have worked with Jane since she started here 18 years ago. She was a valuable member of our team and will be greatly missed. 

Megan reached out to the Smith family this morning to offer condolences on behalf of our staff. They will let us know when funeral arrangements have been made, and we will close the office so all can attend. 

As you already know, Elaine Kramer passed away after a brave battle with breast cancer last Friday. The family announced the plans for her memorial service, which will be held on Wednesday, February 3, at Palmolive Funeral Home in Spokane at 2 p.m. Susan has agreed to stay in the office to greet customers and answer the phones so the rest of us can attend the services.

Here is the link to the obituary. Please keep Elaine’s family (her husband Carl and daughter Amanda) in your prayers.

Matthew was a valuable member of our team for over 23 years, but you may not know all of his contributions.

Matthew began in the warehouse, where he loaded trucks and organized inventory. However, he was injured in a car accident, and the company transferred him to the inside sales team. He quickly proved his worth and was promoted to the outside sales department, where he won the Salesperson of the Year award eight years in a row.  

If you were close to someone who died from addiction , we’re sorry for your loss. 

As with other obituaries, it’s important to remember that you aren’t required to name the cause of death . Understandably, some families choose to leave out this detail, while others draw attention to it so their loved one’s tragedy can help make a positive impact.

Here are obituary samples that cover both scenarios .

Emile Shawshank, 23, died from an accidental overdose on Monday, January 1, 2019 .

Emilie was born on November 17, 1996 , to Mary and Richard Shawshank. She was an only child and the apple of her parent’s eye. She had a happy childhood. The family made frequent visits to her grandparents’ farm, and Emilie especially loved collecting eggs from the chicken house and chasing after the newborn lambs.

She graduated from Newhouse High School in 2014 and attended Northwest State University following graduation. She pledged with Kappa Delta and was elected to the social committee. She was majoring in Biology with plans to apply to vet school next fall.

Emilie began experimenting with drugs during her junior year in college. Her family discovered this fact and asked her to attend a treatment program. She promised to do so, and her family and friends thought she was doing well. However, Emilie was hiding her usage from those closest to her. Her usage led to her death.

Emilie’s parents would like to encourage others who may have a substance abuse problem to seek help immediately. They have started a fund in Emilie’s name to raise money for voluntary drug treatment programs. If you’d like information about the fund or would like to donate to it, please visit Help for Emilie’s website.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Alcoholics Anonymous. 

It’s up to you whether you wish to include specifics about a person’s death in their obituary. After all, people grieve their loved ones regardless of whether the death was expected or sudden.

Still , you may feel moved to share this detail with others so that they don’t feel hurt by not knowing there was cause for concern.

Here are some subtle ways to write that someone died suddenly.

Kimberly Thomas Greenbriar, 56, died unexpectedly at her home on Friday, May 7, 2017 .

While her family and friends are shocked by her death, they are thankful for her life. Kimberly was a quiet soul who relished the simple pleasures of life. She loved reading, crocheting, and spending an occasional evening with friends. Kimberly also loved exploring hiking trails and photographing wildflowers. She had an uncanny ability to find happiness in her daily activities. 

Kimberly is survived by her sister, Beverly (Mickey) Carr; her cousin, Mildred Greenbriar; and many friends.

Daria Lynn Peterson was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world suddenly on August 6, 2023 , at age 59.

She was born to Duane and Donna Asher on June 23, 1964 . After graduating from Mount Vernon High School, Daria served abroad in the Peace Corps, where she met her husband, Rich Peterson. Together, they had three children: Harry, Chad, and Megan.

Daria loved spending time in the kitchen, baking bread and treats that she would share with her neighbors. She was a skilled piano player and filled her home with upbeat jazz and some classical pieces. Daria spent most weekends scouring local antique shops searching for pieces to add to her depression glass collection.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11 am on Tuesday, August 9, 2023 , at Peace Lutheran Church in Mount Vernon. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Heart Association.

Ashley Renee Thompson, 32, died suddenly as a result of a motorcycle accident on Tuesday, March 23, 2022 .

She is survived by her parents, Richard and Eugenia Thompson, and her long-time partner and love of her life, Samantha Renee Richardson. 

Ashley will be honored in a beach-side Celebration of Life on March 30, 2022 . Family and friends will gather to share memories and say goodbye to this wonderful soul.

Unique personalities call for unique obituaries. If your loved one was known for their sense of humor, you might consider using a bit of their wit.  You can approach this in several different ways.

As the writer, you can attempt to be funny. However, we recommend carefully considering whether or not your attempts at humor will be appreciated . Ideally, r un it by everyone in the immediate family.

You may also try writing a standard obituary with examples of your loved one’s funny exploits. Maybe share their signature joke or “line.”

Finally, you might consider writing your own obituary if you know that death is approaching. You’ll be gone before others can argue that your obituary was in bad taste!

Here are some examples of funny obituaries.

Allen Hilderbrand left this earth for another undisclosed location on July 5, 2016 . He spent most of his life as an unsuccessful comedian, amazingly selling out shows from Topeka to Timbuktu.

He was born to amazingly normal parents, Connie and Maurice Hilderbrand of Ottawa, Iowa. But, even though his parents were honest, hardworking, trustworthy, intelligent human beings, Allen was different. He said he was often sent to the principal’s office during grade school and knew the name of every police officer in town.

Scott Visoscky, loving husband, father, and brother, quietly passed away on April 23, 2021 .

Scott was known for his outrageous pranks. No one was immune to his shenanigans. He even famously pranked his 90-year-old Grandmother, much to her delight.

If you are reading this, I, Oscar Scott Peterson, am dead. Unfortunately, since I wrote this obituary before I died, I can’t include the details of the wheres and whens. However, I’m pretty sure that I will be dying of brain cancer — unless I get hit by a bus first.

Ron Anthony Crady passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2023 . He was 76. He died as he liked to live — while flirting with nurses and watching football on TV. He told a joke and moments later passed peacefully.

Ron had a passionate love affair with football, beer, and pizza. He is survived by his saintly wife, Sandy, and an always-flatulent dog named Fido.

If you’ve never planned end-of-life services before, you may not be familiar with how to publish an obituary. Here’s more information about the steps you’ll need to take.

Some newspapers require that a funeral home or cremation provider submit the obituary. This direct line decreases the likelihood of falsely printing information about a person’s passing . 

Newspapers often charge a per-word fee to print obituaries . Depending on the newspaper, you may have to spend hundreds of dollars and even pay an extra fee if you wish to include a photo.

Many papers have online versions , so the obituary may be published in print and digitally.

Online memorial website

An online memorial page allows you to post an obituary and tribute that stays up as long as you want it to. Visitors to the page can write messages and share memories of the deceased.

With Cake's  memorial pages , visitors can also share pictures of the person and even donate if you set up a fundraiser. Creating a memorial page is fast and completely free.

Funeral home or cremation provider websites

It’s common for funeral homes or cremation providers to post the obituaries of those whose services they are arranging , so speak with the funeral home staff about their requirements.

Some staff may assist you with writing the obituary, while others will publish the article you provide.

To that end, some charge an additional fee to post the obituary on their website, while other companies will include the publication as part of their fees.

Social media

You may consider writing an obituary about your loved one and posting it on social media . Even though this option is free, there is a benefit to sharing the information on a larger public forum.

An obituary published in a newspaper or obituary archive will be available in perpetuity and accessed by a broader range of people.

As the cursor flashes on your screen , writing your loved one’s obituary may feel overwhelming .

How do you write the  obituary for a mother who was your personal hero and best friend? How do you say goodbye to your four-year-old daughter, who fought so bravely against cancer?

Besides being emotionally difficult, you may also have logistical questions such as the  etiquette of listing a predeceased family member. How do you name the " survived by " family members if the father was never part of the person’s life?

Remember to ask for help writing your loved one’s obituary if and when you need it . Another family member, friend, or funeral home staff member can also write the obituary.

• Moses, Rae E., and Giana D. Marelli. "Obituaries and the Discursive Construction of Dying and Living." Proceedings of the Eleventh Annual Symposium About Language and Society. April 11, 2004. https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=4a2275e67dc105d0f58c93fe19c20fd5adb5df86 .
• “Pregnancy and Infant Loss.” CDC . September 30, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/stillbirth/features/pregnancy-infant-loss.html

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How to Write a Biography

Last Updated: May 28, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,879,518 times.

Writing a biography can be a fun challenge, where you are sharing the story of someone’s life with readers. You may need to write a biography for a class or decide to write one as a personal project. Once you have identified the subject of the biography, do your research so you know as much about them as possible. Then, dive into the writing of the biography and revising it until it is at its finest.

Researching Your Subject

• If the subject does not give you permission to write the biography, you may want to choose a different subject. If you decide to publish the biography without the subject’s permission, you may be susceptible to legal action by the subject.
• If the subject is no longer alive, you obviously do not need to ask permission to write about them.

• You may create research questions to help focus your research of the subject, such as, What do I find interesting about the subject? Why is this subject important to readers? What can I say that is new about the subject? What would I like to learn more about?

• For in person interviews, record them with a tape recorder or a voice recorder on your computer or phone.
• You may need to interview the subject and others several times to get the material you need.

• You may also want to visit areas where the subject made a major decision or breakthrough in their life. Being physically in the area can give you a sense of how the subject might have felt and help you write their experiences more effectively.

• When researching the time period ask yourself: What were the social norms of that time? What was going on economically and politically? How did the social and political climate affect the subject?

• You may also include historical events or moments that affected the subject on the timeline. For example, maybe there was a conflict or civil war that happened during the person’s life that affected their life.

Writing the Biography

• You may end up focusing on particular areas of the person’s life. If you do this, work through a particular period in the person’s life chronologically.

• For example, you may have a thesis statement about focusing on how the person impacted the civil rights movement in America in the 1970s. You can then make sure all your content relates back to this thesis.

• Flashbacks should feel as detailed and real as present day scenes. Use your research notes and interviews with the subject to get a good sense of their past for the flashbacks.
• For example, you may jump from the person’s death in the present to a flashback to their favorite childhood memory.

• For example, you may focus on the person’s accomplishments in the civil rights movement. You may write a whole section about their contributions and participation in major civil rights marches in their hometown.

• For example, you may notice that the person’s life is patterned with moments of adversity, where the person worked hard and fought against larger forces. You can then use the theme of overcoming adversity in the biography.

• For example, you may note how you see parallels in the person’s life during the civil rights movement with your own interests in social justice. You may also commend the person for their hard work and positive impact on society.

Polishing the Biography

• Revise the biography based on feedback from others. Do not be afraid to cut or edit down the biography to suit the needs of your readers.

• Having a biography riddled with spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors can turn off your readers and result in a poor grade if you are handing in the text for a class.

• If the biography is for a class, use MLA , APA , or Chicago Style citations based on the preferences of your instructor.

Biography Help

Community Q&A

• Be careful when publishing private or embarrassing information, especially if the person is not a celebrity. You may violate their "Right of Privacy" or equivalent. Thanks Helpful 31 Not Helpful 5
• Have the sources to back up your statements about the subject's life. Untruthful written statements can lead to litigation. If it is your opinion, be clear that it is such and not fact (although you can support your opinion with facts). Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 15

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://grammar.yourdictionary.com/writing/how-to-write-a-biography.html
• ↑ https://au.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-bio
• ↑ https://www.writersdigest.com/writing-articles/3-tips-for-writing-successful-flashbacks
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-bio/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ https://www.plagiarism.org/article/how-do-i-cite-sources

About This Article

Before you write a biography, gather as much information about the subject that you can from sources like newspaper articles, interviews, photos, existing biographies, and anything else you can find. Write the story of that person’s life, including as much supporting detail as you can, including information about the place and time where the person lived. Focus on major events and milestones in their life, including historical events, marriage, children, and events which would shape their path later in life. For tips from our reviewer on proofreading the biography and citing your sources, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Biography for funeral sample

Biography for funeral: a guide to crafting a meaningful tribute.

Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of the most difficult experiences we can face in life. Saying goodbye to someone we care about deeply can be overwhelming, and planning a funeral can feel like an insurmountable task. One of the most important aspects of any funeral is the eulogy, which often includes a biography of the deceased. A biography for funeral is a summary of the person’s life that highlights their accomplishments, personality, and the impact they had on others. In this article, we’ll provide a guide to crafting a meaningful biography for funeral, including tips, examples, and resources.

What is a Biography for Funeral?

A biography for funeral is a summary of the deceased person’s life that is often included in the eulogy or funeral program. It typically includes information such as the person’s birthplace, family background, education, career, hobbies, and achievements. The purpose of a biography for funeral is to celebrate the life of the deceased, honor their memory, and provide comfort to those who are mourning.

Why is a Biography for Funeral Important?

A biography for funeral is important because it helps to create a meaningful tribute to the deceased. By sharing information about the person’s life, you can help others to understand who they were, what they accomplished, and the impact they had on the world around them. This can be especially comforting for those who are grieving, as it allows them to see the person they loved in a larger context and to appreciate the fullness of their life.

How to Write a Biography for Funeral

Writing a biography for funeral can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. Here are some tips to help you craft a meaningful tribute to your loved one:

1. Gather Information

Before you start writing, it’s important to gather as much information as possible about the deceased. This may include:

• Their birthplace and family background
• Information about their education, career, and achievements
• Details about their hobbies, interests, and passions
• Stories and anecdotes from their life
• Quotes or sayings that were important to them

2. Determine the Tone

The tone of the biography for funeral will depend on the personality of the deceased and the preferences of their family. Some families may prefer a more formal, traditional tone, while others may want a more informal, lighthearted approach. Consider what would be most appropriate for the situation and what would best honor the memory of the deceased.

3. Create an Outline

Once you have gathered all the necessary information, it’s a good idea to create an outline for the biography. This will help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that you include all the important details. Your outline might include sections such as:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the deceased and their relationship to the speaker
• Early Life: Provide information about the person’s childhood and family background
• Education and Career: Discuss the person’s education and career path
• Achievements: Highlight the person’s accomplishments and contributions to their field or community
• Personal Life: Discuss the person’s hobbies, interests, and relationships
• Closing: Offer a final tribute and express your condolences to the family

4. Write the Biography

Once you have your outline in place, you can start writing the biography. Begin with a strong opening that captures the essence of the person’s life. Use anecdotes, quotes, and stories to help bring the person to life and to illustrate their personality and character. Be sure to include all the important details you have gathered, but also be mindful of keeping the biography concise and focused.

5. Review and Edit

Once you have completed the biography, it’s important to review and edit it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that the tone and content are appropriate for the situation. You may also want to have someone else read it over to provide feedback and ensure that you haven’t missed anything important.

Examples of Biographies for Funeral

Here are some examples of biographies for funeral to help you get an idea of what to include:

John Smith was born on May 15, 1952, in New York City. He grew up in a large family and was the second of six children. He attended St. John’s University, where he earned a degree in business. After graduation, John started his own construction company and quickly became known for his skill and attention to detail. He was married to his wife, Mary, for 30 years and had two children, Michael and Sarah. John was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his hard work, dedication, and kind heart.

Samantha Lee was born on March 3, 1980, in Los Angeles, California. She was the youngest of three children and grew up in a creative and artistic family. Samantha attended the University of California, Los Angeles, where she earned a degree in film production. She went on to work in the film industry and was known for her innovative and unique approach to storytelling. Samantha was a passionate advocate for animal rights and spent much of her free time volunteering at local animal shelters. She will be remembered for her creativity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

Resources for Writing a Biography for Funeral

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to write a biography for funeral, there are many resources available to help. Here are a few to consider:

• FuneralPamphlet.com: FuneralPamphlet.com offers a variety of templates and designs for funeral programs, including sections for biographies. Their easy-to-use platform allows you to create a professional-looking program in just a few clicks.
• FuneralOne.com: FuneralOne.com offers a wide range of resources for funeral planning, including tips for writing eulogies and biographies. They also offer a variety of customizable funeral program templates.
• GriefShare.org: GriefShare.org provides a wealth of information and resources for those who are grieving, including advice on writing a biography for funeral. They also offer support groups and other resources to help you through the grieving process.

Why use FuneralPamphlet.com?

FuneralPamphlet.com is an excellent resource for anyone who is planning a funeral and wants to create a beautiful, professional-looking program. Their user-friendly platform makes it easy to create a customized program that includes a biography for funeral, photos, quotes, and other elements that will help you honor the memory of your loved one. With a variety of templates and designs to choose from, FuneralPamphlet.com is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to create a meaningful tribute without the stress and hassle of designing a program from scratch.

How to Write a Biography

Biographies are big business. Whether in book form or Hollywood biopics, the lives of the famous and sometimes not-so-famous fascinate us.

While it’s true that most biographies are about people who are in the public eye, sometimes the subject is less well-known. Primarily, though, famous or not, the person who is written about has led an incredible life.

In this article, we will explain biography writing in detail for teachers and students so they can create their own.

While your students will most likely have a basic understanding of a biography, it’s worth taking a little time before they put pen to paper to tease out a crystal-clear definition of one.

What Is a Biography?

A biography is an account of someone’s life written by someone else . While there is a genre known as a fictional biography, for the most part, biographies are, by definition, nonfiction.

Generally speaking, biographies provide an account of the subject’s life from the earliest days of childhood to the present day or, if the subject is deceased, their death.

The job of a biography is more than just to outline the bare facts of a person’s life.

Rather than just listing the basic details of their upbringing, hobbies, education, work, relationships, and death, a well-written biography should also paint a picture of the subject’s personality and experience of life.

Full Biographies

Teaching unit.

Teach your students everything they need to know about writing an AUTOBIOGRAPHY and a BIOGRAPHY.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ( 26 reviews )

Features of a Biography

Before students begin writing a biography, they’ll need to have a firm grasp of the main features of a Biography. An excellent way to determine how well they understand these essential elements is to ask them to compile a checklist like the one-blow

Their checklists should contain the items below at a minimum. Be sure to help them fill in any gaps before moving on to the writing process.

The purpose of a biography is to provide an account of someone’s life.

Biography structure.

ORIENTATION (BEGINNING) Open your biography with a strong hook to grab the reader’s attention

SEQUENCING: In most cases, biographies are written in chronological order unless you are a very competent writer consciously trying to break from this trend.

COVER: childhood, upbringing, education, influences, accomplishments, relationships, etc. – everything that helps the reader to understand the person.

CONCLUSION: Wrap your biography up with some details about what the subject is doing now if they are still alive. If they have passed away, make mention of what impact they have made and what their legacy is or will be.

BIOGRAPHY FEATURES

LANGUAGE Use descriptive and figurative language that will paint images inside your audience’s minds as they read. Use time connectives to link events.

PERSPECTIVE Biographies are written from the third person’s perspective.

DETAILS: Give specific details about people, places, events, times, dates, etc. Reflect on how events shaped the subject. You might want to include some relevant photographs with captions. A timeline may also be of use depending upon your subject and what you are trying to convey to your audience.

TENSE Written in the past tense (though ending may shift to the present/future tense)

THE PROCESS OF WRITING A BIOGRAPHY

Like any form of writing, you will find it simple if you have a plan and follow it through. These steps will ensure you cover the essential bases of writing a biography essay.

Firstly, select a subject that inspires you. Someone whose life story resonates with you and whose contribution to society intrigues you. The next step is to conduct thorough research. Engage in extensive reading, explore various sources, watch documentaries, and glean all available information to provide a comprehensive account of the person’s life.

Creating an outline is essential to organize your thoughts and information. The outline should include the person’s early life, education, career, achievements, and any other significant events or contributions. It serves as a map for the writing process, ensuring that all vital information is included.

Your biography should have an engaging introduction that captivates the reader’s attention and provides background information on the person you’re writing about. It should include a thesis statement summarising the biography’s main points.

Writing a biography in chronological order is crucial . You should begin with the person’s early life and move through their career and achievements. This approach clarifies how the person’s life unfolded and how they accomplished their goals.

A biography should be written in a narrative style , capturing the essence of the person’s life through vivid descriptions, anecdotes, and quotes. Avoid dry, factual writing and focus on creating a compelling narrative that engages the reader.

Adding personal insights and opinions can enhance the biography’s overall impact, providing a unique perspective on the person’s achievements, legacy, and impact on society.

Editing and proofreading are vital elements of the writing process. Thoroughly reviewing your biography ensures that the writing is clear, concise, and error-free. You can even request feedback from someone else to ensure that it is engaging and well-written.

Finally, including a bibliography at the end of your biography is essential. It gives credit to the sources that were used during research, such as books, articles, interviews, and websites.

Tips for Writing a Brilliant Biography

Biography writing tip #1: choose your subject wisely.

There are several points for students to reflect on when deciding on a subject for their biography. Let’s take a look at the most essential points to consider when deciding on the subject for a biography:

Interest: To produce a biography will require sustained writing from the student. That’s why students must choose their subject well. After all, a biography is an account of someone’s entire life to date. Students must ensure they choose a subject that will sustain their interest throughout the research, writing, and editing processes.

Merit: Closely related to the previous point, students must consider whether the subject merits the reader’s interest. Aside from pure labors of love, writing should be undertaken with the reader in mind. While producing a biography demands sustained writing from the author, it also demands sustained reading from the reader.

Therefore, students should ask themselves if their chosen subject has had a life worthy of the reader’s interest and the time they’d need to invest in reading their biography.

Information: Is there enough information available on the subject to fuel the writing of an entire biography? While it might be a tempting idea to write about a great-great-grandfather’s experience in the war. There would be enough interest there to sustain the author’s and the reader’s interest, but do you have enough access to information about their early childhood to do the subject justice in the form of a biography?

Biography Writing Tip #2: R esearch ! Research! Research!

While the chances are good that the student already knows quite a bit about the subject they’ve chosen. Chances are 100% that they’ll still need to undertake considerable research to write their biography.

As with many types of writing , research is an essential part of the planning process that shouldn’t be overlooked. If students wish to give as complete an account of their subject’s life as possible, they’ll need to put in the time at the research stage.

An effective way to approach the research process is to:

1. Compile a chronological timeline of the central facts, dates, and events of the subject’s life

2. Compile detailed descriptions of the following personal traits:

•      Physical looks
•      Character traits
•      Values and beliefs

3. Compile some research questions based on different topics to provide a focus for the research:

• Childhood : Where and when were they born? Who were their parents? Who were the other family members? What education did they receive?
• Obstacles: What challenges did they have to overcome? How did these challenges shape them as individuals?
• Legacy: What impact did this person have on the world and/or the people around them?
• Dialogue & Quotes: Dialogue and quotations by and about the subject are a great way to bring color and life to a biography. Students should keep an eagle eye out for the gems that hide amid their sources.

As the student gets deeper into their research, new questions will arise that can further fuel the research process and help to shape the direction the biography will ultimately go in.

Likewise, during the research, themes will often begin to suggest themselves. Exploring these themes is essential to bring depth to biography, but we’ll discuss this later in this article.

Research Skills:

Researching for biography writing is an excellent way for students to hone their research skills in general. Developing good research skills is essential for future academic success. Students will have opportunities to learn how to:

• Gather relevant information
• Evaluate different information sources
• Select suitable information
• Organize information into a text.

Students will have access to print and online information sources, and, in some cases, they may also have access to people who knew or know the subject (e.g. biography of a family member).

These days, much of the research will likely take place online. It’s crucial, therefore, to provide your students with guidance on how to use the internet safely and evaluate online sources for reliability. This is the era of ‘ fake news ’ and misinformation after all!

COMPLETE TEACHING UNIT ON INTERNET RESEARCH SKILLS USING GOOGLE SEARCH

Teach your students ESSENTIAL SKILLS OF THE INFORMATION ERA to become expert DIGITAL RESEARCHERS.

⭐How to correctly ask questions to search engines on all devices.

⭐ How to filter and refine your results to find exactly what you want every time.

⭐ Essential Research and critical thinking skills for students.

⭐ Plagiarism, Citing and acknowledging other people’s work.

⭐ How to query, synthesize and record your findings logically.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING Tip #3: Find Your Themes In Biography Writing

Though predominantly a nonfiction genre, the story still plays a significant role in good biography writing. The skills of characterization and plot structuring are transferable here. And, just like in fiction, exploring themes in a biographical work helps connect the personal to the universal. Of course, these shouldn’t be forced; this will make the work seem contrived, and the reader may lose faith in the truthfulness of the account. A biographer needs to gain and maintain the trust of the reader.

Fortunately, themes shouldn’t need to be forced. A life well-lived is full of meaning, and the themes the student writer is looking for will emerge effortlessly from the actions and events of the subject’s life. It’s just a case of learning how to spot them.

One way to identify the themes in a life is to look for recurring events or situations in a person’s life. These should be apparent from the research completed previously. The students should seek to identify these patterns that emerge in the subject’s life. For example, perhaps they’ve had to overcome various obstacles throughout different periods of their life. In that case, the theme of overcoming adversity is present and has been identified.

Usually, a biography has several themes running throughout, so be sure your students work to identify more than one theme in their subject’s life.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING Tip: #4 Put Something of Yourself into the Writing

While the defining feature of a biography is that it gives an account of a person’s life, students must understand that this is not all a biography does. Relating the facts and details of a subject’s life is not enough. The student biographer should not be afraid to share their thoughts and feelings with the reader throughout their account of their subject’s life.

The student can weave some of their personality into the fabric of the text by providing commentary and opinion as they relate the events of the person’s life and the wider social context at the time. Unlike the detached and objective approach we’d expect to find in a history textbook, in a biography, student-writers should communicate their enthusiasm for their subject in their writing.

This makes for a more intimate experience for the reader, as they get a sense of getting to know the author and the subject they are writing about.

Biography Examples For Students

• Year 5 Example
• Year 7 Example
• Year 9 Example

“The Rock ‘n’ Roll King: Elvis Presley”

Elvis Aaron Presley, born on January 8, 1935, was an amazing singer and actor known as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Even though he’s been dead for nearly 50 years, I can’t help but be fascinated by his incredible life!

Elvis grew up in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a tiny house with his parents and twin brother. His family didn’t have much money, but they shared a love for music. Little did they know Elvis would become a music legend!

When he was only 11 years old, Elvis got his first guitar. He taught himself to play and loved singing gospel songs. As he got older, he started combining different music styles like country, blues, and gospel to create a whole new sound – that’s Rock ‘n’ Roll!

In 1954, at the age of 19, Elvis recorded his first song, “That’s All Right.” People couldn’t believe how unique and exciting his music was. His famous hip-swinging dance moves also made him a sensation!

Elvis didn’t just rock the music scene; he also starred in movies like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock.” But fame came with challenges. Despite facing ups and downs, Elvis kept spreading happiness through his music.

Tragically, Elvis passed away in 1977, but his music and charisma live on. Even today, people worldwide still enjoy his songs like “Hound Dog” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Elvis Presley’s legacy as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll will live forever.

Long Live the King: I wish I’d seen him.

Elvis Presley, the Rock ‘n’ Roll legend born on January 8, 1935, is a captivating figure that even a modern-day teen like me can’t help but admire. As I delve into his life, I wish I could have experienced the magic of his live performances.

Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis faced challenges but found solace in music. At 11, he got his first guitar, a symbol of his journey into the world of sound. His fusion of gospel, country, and blues into Rock ‘n’ Roll became a cultural phenomenon.

The thought of being in the audience during his early performances, especially when he recorded “That’s All Right” at 19, sends shivers down my spine. Imagining the crowd’s uproar and feeling the revolutionary energy of that moment is a dream I wish I could have lived.

Elvis wasn’t just a musical prodigy; he was a dynamic performer. His dance moves, the embodiment of rebellion, and his roles in films like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock” made him a true icon.

After watching him on YouTube, I can’t help but feel a little sad that I’ll never witness the King’s live performances. The idea of swaying to “Hound Dog” or being enchanted by “Can’t Help Falling in Love” in person is a missed opportunity. Elvis may have left us in 1977, but he was the king of rock n’ roll. Long live the King!

Elvis Presley: A Teen’s Take on the Rock ‘n’ Roll Icon”

Elvis Presley, born January 8, 1935, was a revolutionary force in the music world, earning his title as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Exploring his life, even as a 16-year-old today, I’m captivated by the impact he made.

Hailing from Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis grew up in humble beginnings, surrounded by the love of his parents and twin brother. It’s inspiring to think that, despite financial challenges, this young man would redefine the music scene.

At 11, Elvis got his first guitar, sparking a self-taught journey into music. His early gospel influences evolved into a unique fusion of country, blues, and gospel, creating the electrifying genre of Rock ‘n’ Roll. In 1954, at only 19, he recorded “That’s All Right,” marking the birth of a musical legend.

Elvis wasn’t just a musical innovator; he was a cultural phenomenon. His rebellious dance moves and magnetic stage presence challenged the norms. He transitioned seamlessly into acting, starring in iconic films like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock.”

However, fame came at a cost, and Elvis faced personal struggles. Despite the challenges, his music continued to resonate. Even now, classics like “Hound Dog” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” transcend generations.

Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture is undeniable. He was known for his unique voice, charismatic persona, and electrifying performances. He sold over one billion records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling solo artists in history. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including three Grammy Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Elvis’s influence can still be seen in today’s music. Many contemporary artists, such as Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, and Justin Timberlake, have cited Elvis as an inspiration. His music continues to be featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials.

Elvis left us in 1977, but his legacy lives on. I appreciate his breaking barriers and fearlessly embracing his artistic vision. Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture is timeless, a testament to the enduring power of his artistry. His music has inspired generations and will continue to do so for many years to come.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING TEACHING IDEAS AND LESSONS

We have compiled a sequence of biography-related lessons or teaching ideas that you can follow as you please. They are straightforward enough for most students to follow without further instruction.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 1:

This session aims to give students a broader understanding of what makes a good biography.

Once your students have compiled a comprehensive checklist of the main features of a biography, allow them to use it to assess some biographies from your school library or on the internet using the feature checklist.

When students have assessed a selection of biographies, take some time as a class to discuss them. You can base the discussion around the following prompts:

• Which biographies covered all the criteria from their checklist?
• Which biographies didn’t?
• Which biography was the most readable in terms of structure?
• Which biography do you think was the least well-structured? How would you improve this?

Looking at how other writers have interpreted the form will help students internalize the necessary criteria before attempting to produce a biography. Once students have a clear understanding of the main features of the biography, they’re ready to begin work on writing a biography.

When the time does come to put pen to paper, be sure they’re armed with the following top tips to help ensure they’re as well prepared as possible.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 2:

This session aims to guide students through the process of selecting the perfect biography subject.

Instruct students to draw up a shortlist of three potential subjects for the biography they’ll write.

Using the three criteria mentioned in the writing guide (Interest, Merit, and Information), students award each potential subject a mark out of 5 for each of the criteria. In this manner, students can select the most suitable subject for their biography.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 3:

This session aims to get students into the researching phase, then prioritise and organise events chronologically.

Students begin by making a timeline of their subject’s life, starting with their birth and ending with their death or the present day. If the student has yet to make a final decision on the subject of their biography, a family member will often serve well for this exercise as a practice exercise.

Students should research and gather the key events of the person’s life, covering each period of their life from when they were a baby, through childhood and adolescence, right up to adulthood and old age. They should then organize these onto a timeline. Students can include photographs with captions if they have them.

They can present these to the class when they have finished their timelines.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 4:

Instruct students to look over their timeline, notes, and other research. Challenge them to identify three patterns that repeat throughout the subject’s life and sort all the related events and incidents into specific categories.

Students should then label each category with a single word. This is the thematic concept or the broad general underlying idea. After that, students should write a sentence or two expressing what the subject’s life ‘says’ about that concept.

This is known as the thematic statement . With the thematic concepts and thematic statements identified, the student now has some substantial ideas to explore that will help bring more profound meaning and wider resonance to their biography.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 5:

Instruct students to write a short objective account of an event in their own life. They can write about anyone from their past. It needn’t be more than a couple of paragraphs, but the writing should be strictly factual, focusing only on the objective details of what happened.

Once they have completed this, it’s time to rewrite the paragraph, but they should include some opinion and personal commentary this time.

The student here aims to inject some color and personality into their writing, to transform a detached, factual account into a warm, engaging story.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON TEACHING BIOGRAPHIES

Teach your students to write AMAZING BIOGRAPHIES & AUTOBIOGRAPHIES using proven RESEARCH SKILLS and WRITING STRATEGIES .

• Understand the purpose of both forms of biography.
• Explore the language and perspective of both.
• Prompts and Challenges to engage students in writing a biography.
• Dedicated lessons for both forms of biography.
• Biographical Projects can expand students’ understanding of reading and writing a biography.
• A COMPLETE 82-PAGE UNIT – NO PREPARATION REQUIRED.

FREE Biography Writing Graphic Organizer

Use this valuable tool in the research and writing phases to keep your students on track and engaged.

WRITING CHECKLIST & RUBRIC BUNDLE

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To Conclude

By this stage, your students should have an excellent technical overview of a biography’s essential elements.

They should be able to choose their subject in light of how interesting and worthy they are, as well as give consideration to the availability of information out there. They should be able to research effectively and identify emerging themes in their research notes. And finally, they should be able to bring some of their personality and uniqueness into their retelling of the life of another.

Remember that writing a biography is not only a great way to develop a student’s writing skills; it can be used in almost all curriculum areas. For example, to find out more about a historical figure in History, to investigate scientific contributions to Science, or to celebrate a hero from everyday life.

Biography is an excellent genre for students to develop their writing skills and to find inspiration in the lives of others in the world around them.

HOW TO WRITE A BIOGRAPHY TUTORIAL VIDEO

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO BIOGRAPHY WRITING

How to write an Autobiography

How to Write a Historical Recount Text

15 Awesome Recount & Personal Narrative Topics

Personal Narrative Writing Guide

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Death Biographies Samples For Students

28 samples of this type

During studying in college, you will definitely have to craft a lot of Biographies on Death. Lucky you if linking words together and turning them into relevant text comes naturally to you; if it's not the case, you can save the day by finding a previously written Death Biography example and using it as a model to follow.

This is when you will definitely find WowEssays' free samples directory extremely useful as it embodies numerous skillfully written works on most various Death Biographies topics. Ideally, you should be able to find a piece that meets your requirements and use it as a template to compose your own Biography. Alternatively, our qualified essay writers can deliver you an original Death Biography model crafted from scratch according to your personal instructions.

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Pablo Picasso Biography

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Introduction

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The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, which was written by Frederick Douglass himself, sheds valuable insight into the man who is today known so well for his participation in the Anti-Slavery movement during the 19th century. Years after escaping slavery in Maryland, he got it published in 1845 by the Anti-Slavery office in Boston, Massachusetts. Douglass was born into slavery, suffered its hopeless cruelties, and eventually escaped to the north to live out his days with his wife, Anna. This is a brief description of his life up to the time he became influential in the Anti-Slavery cause.

Frederick Douglass' Story

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Harry Truman became the 33rd president of United States of America in the year 1945, following the sudden death of President Franklin Roosevelt. He encountered challenges during his two terms in office. First, the republicans and the press, severely, criticized his administration in terms of both domestic and foreign affairs. However, his policies abroad helped many generations. Domestically, he protected reforms. This paper discusses Harry Truman’s background, early life, accomplishments, shortcomings, and failures.

Background and early life

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Dona Marina, also called Malintzin, or La Malinche (1496-1529) was an American Indian originating from the Nahua (Aztec) ancestry. Malinche played a very important role during the conquest of Mexico by the Spanish. She was believed to be a princess of the Aztec language (Nahuatl) speaking tribe and was sold as a slave in her youth to the coastal traders because of the family politics.

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Elizabeth Blackwell Biography Examples

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Harold Pinter Biography

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How to Write a Biography in 8 Steps (The Non-Boring Way!)

Compelling biographies help us better connect with others while fostering empathy and understanding. Discover the steps to write one that captivates your audience!

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Have you ever been captivated by someone’s life story? From the ancient tales of great conquerors to the modern accounts of influential figures, biographies have enchanted readers and viewers for centuries. 

The stories of real people’s lives not only entertain and educate but also provide a unique window into the human experience. In fact, according to research 1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8796048/ , human stories like biographies can help us better connect with others while fostering empathy and understanding.

In this article, let’s dive into how to write a compelling biography, from the research phase to delivery.

What Are the Key Elements of a Biography?

The key elements of a well-written biography bring characters to life. They include thorough research, relevant interviews, clear structure, captivating prose, compelling themes, and a balance between objectivity and empathy. 

• Thorough research: Helps create an accurate portrayal of your subject
• Relevant interviews: Insights help provide a deeper understanding of your subject
• Clear structure: Helps you outline your ideas for a compelling narrative
• Captivating prose: Provides descriptive language to paint a picture of your subject
• Compelling themes: Showcases the motivations and desires behind your subject
• A balance between objectivity and empathy: Keeps biases in check and allows your subject to shine for who they are

As you develop your biography, remember that these stories hold an enduring appeal because they offer people an opportunity to explore the depths of the human psyche, unravel extraordinary accomplishments, and discover the vulnerabilities and triumphs of individuals who have left their mark on the world. 

Here are the topics a biography typically covers:

• Early life and background : Provide context about the subject’s upbringing, family, and cultural influences.
• Achievements and milestones: Highlight notable accomplishments, contributions, and significant events throughout their life.
• Challenges and struggles: Explore the obstacles they faced, the lessons learned, and how they overcame adversity.
• Personal characteristics: Describe their personality traits, values, beliefs, and motivations that shaped their actions and decisions.
• Impact and legacy: Discuss the lasting influence and contributions of the subject, both during their lifetime and beyond.

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Let’s look at the six key elements of a well-written biography more closely and the steps you can follow to develop your own.

How to Write a Biography in 8 Steps Using Key Elements

Choose your presentation format.

Presenting your biography can take on various forms, the most traditional being written form. The basis for this article assumes you’re writing a conventional biography; however, this foundation can also help you create a multimedia presentation or website as well. 

Consider these various formats to present your biography:

• Traditional Written Biographies: This classic approach provides a comprehensive account of a person’s life through the written word. Traditional biographies can be published in print or ebooks , allowing readers to engage deeply with the subject’s story.
• Multimedia Presentations: In the digital age, multimedia presentations offer a dynamic way to present biographies. Incorporate audio, video, photographs, and interactive elements to enhance the audience’s experience.
• Online Platforms: Online platforms, such as blogs or dedicated biography websites, provide accessible avenues for sharing biographies. They allow for easy updates, reader engagement, and the incorporation of multimedia elements. 

Choose your subject and conduct research

To create a vivid and accurate portrayal of a person’s life, conduct extensive research. Dive into archives, read letters, examine diaries, explore photographs, and immerse yourself in the historical and cultural context surrounding your subject. This will help you unearth the small details that breathe life into your biography. 

Whether you’re writing a biography about a historical figure, contemporary icon, or everyday individual, you’ll want to consider the different factors to focus on. Here are some examples of three types of individuals and the kind of research that will be most helpful.

• Historical Figures: When writing about historical figures, immerse yourself in their era. Understand the social, political, and cultural forces that shaped their lives. I recommend visiting your local library and connecting with a research librarian for support. Otherwise, other tools for historical research include Google Scholar. Analyze primary sources and multiple perspectives to present a well-rounded account.
• Contemporary Icons: Biographies of modern icons offer a chance to delve into their ongoing impact. Conduct interviews or gather insights from their close associates to understand their present-day influence. Stay current with the latest developments, and be prepared to update your work as the subject’s story unfolds.
• Everyday Individuals: Biographies need not be reserved for the famous. Every day individuals possess stories that can be just as compelling. Uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and personal growth of individuals who might otherwise remain unsung.
• Yourself! Want to write a biography on yourself? Autobiographies are a great way to explore who you are. Get ready to do some serious self-reflection with the steps below.

Pro Tip: Compile your research digitally using helpful cloud filings systems like Google Drive , OneDrive , or Dropbox . Organize your files by category, including information about their youth, family, achievements, and life lessons. You may also choose to write down research references or collect paper clippings on note cards, categorizing your physical files of research along the way.

Develop compelling themes and motifs 

Identify overarching themes or motifs that emerge from the subject’s life. These could be resilience, ambition, love, or societal change. Weave these elements into the narrative, highlighting their significance and impact on the person’s journey. Here are some examples:

• Overcoming Adversity: These biographies feature perseverance, resilience, and determination. Examples include Helen Keller, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Yousafzai.
• Pursuit of Excellence: These biographies highlight people who have worked tirelessly to achieve their goals. Examples include Steve Jobs, Serena Williams, and Michael Jordan.
• Quest for Knowledge: These biographies focus on the curiosity that led to significant contributions to our world. Examples include Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, and Charles Darwin.
• Personal Transformation: These biographies explore a change in beliefs, values, or priorities. Examples include Malcolm X, Oprah Winfrey, and Maya Angelou.
• Legacy and Impact: These biographies examine a body of work that made a lasting contribution to society. Examples include Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Conduct relevant interviews 

Whenever possible, seek firsthand accounts from those who knew or interacted with the subject. Conduct interviews with family members, friends, colleagues, or experts in the field. Their insights and anecdotes can provide a deeper understanding of the person’s character and experiences.

When conducting interviews for a biography, consider the following tips to ensure a productive and insightful conversation:

• Familiarize yourself with the interviewee’s background and accomplishments.
• Develop a list of well-thought-out questions that cover key aspects of their lives and experiences, including questions about your subject’s youth, family, achievements, and life transitions or struggles.
• Begin the interview by establishing a comfortable and friendly atmosphere to put the interviewee at ease.
• Show genuine interest in their story and listen actively to their responses.
• Ask open-ended questions encouraging detailed and reflective responses.
• Avoid yes/no questions and ask for their insights, memories, and personal perspectives.
• Some topics you might consider for your questions include early life, achievements, challenges, motivations, values, relationships, lessons learned, and advice.
• Pay close attention to the interviewee’s answers, body language, and tone of voice.
• Ask follow-up questions to clarify or delve deeper into specific topics.
• Show empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for the interviewee to share personal or sensitive information.
• Remain flexible during the interview, allowing the conversation to flow naturally.
• Be prepared to deviate from your prepared questions if unexpected but relevant topics arise.
• Respect the interviewee’s boundaries and be mindful of any topics they may not wish to discuss.
• Take thorough and organized notes during the interview to capture important details.
• Consider recording the interview (with permission) to ensure accurate quotes and references.
• Ask for permission to follow up with additional questions or for clarification.
• Doing a biography on yourself? Ask yourself deep questions to harvest new stories and anecdotes.

Remember, the goal of the interview is to gather valuable information and personal perspectives that will contribute to the authenticity and depth of your biography. Approach the interview process with sensitivity, respect, and genuine curiosity about the interviewee’s life and experiences.

Develop a clear structure

Outline your biography, ensuring a logical and engaging narrative flow. Consider the chronological order, significant milestones, and turning points in the subject’s life. Organize your gathered information to capture the essence of their journey while maintaining a compelling rhythm throughout. 

A good outline for a biography can vary depending on the specific subject and the desired structure of the narrative. However, here’s a general outline that can serve as a starting point:

A. Introduction

a) Hook or engaging opening to capture the reader’s attention

b) Background information (birthplace, date, family, etc.)

c) A brief overview of the subject’s significance or why they are worth exploring

B. Early Life and Background

a) Childhood and upbringing

b) Influences, such as family, education, or cultural factors

c) Formative experiences or events that shaped the subject’s character or interests

C. Major Achievements and Milestones

a) A chronological exploration of the subject’s notable accomplishments, contributions, or milestones

b) Focus on key moments or achievements that highlight their impact or significance.

c) Provide context and details to paint a vivid picture of their achievements

D. Challenges and Obstacles

a) Discussion of the challenges, setbacks, or adversities the subject encountered

b) How they overcame obstacles or grew through difficult experiences

c) Insights into their resilience, determination, or problem-solving abilities

E. Personal Life and Relationships

a) Exploration of the subject’s relationships, such as family, friends, or romantic partners

b) Insights into their personal joys, struggles, or transformative experiences

c) How their personal life intersected with their professional or public achievements

F. Legacy and Impact

a) Examination of the subject’s lasting influence, contributions, or impact on society

b) Discuss how their work or actions continue to resonate or shape the world today

c) Reflection on their legacy and the lessons we can learn from their life story

G. Conclusion

a) Summarize the key aspects of the subject’s life and their significance

b) Provide a final reflection or insight on their overall journey or impact

c) Leave the reader with a lasting impression or call to action

Pro Tip: Looking for help drafting an outline to get you started? Use free tools like ChatGPT to jumpstart your outline by putting in a prompt request like, “Write an outline for a biography about X, including any relevant details on the subject that should be included.”

Craft captivating prose

Employ descriptive language to transport readers into the subject’s world. Paint vivid portraits of their physical appearance, mannerisms, and surroundings. Use sensory details to evoke emotions and create a strong connection between the reader and the subject. 

Here are some examples:

• “She was a force of nature, with a fierce determination and an unwavering commitment to justice.” (Ruth Bader Ginsburg)
• “His piercing blue eyes seemed to look right through you, and his voice had a commanding presence that demanded attention.” (Winston Churchill)
• “She moved with a grace and elegance that belied her inner strength and resilience.” (Audrey Hepburn)
• “His rugged features and piercing gaze made him a natural leading man, but it was his depth and vulnerability that set him apart.” (Marlon Brando)
• “She had a contagious energy and a magnetic personality that drew people to her like a moth to a flame.” (Princess Diana)
• “His quiet intensity and unwavering dedication to his craft made him one of the greatest artists of his time.” (Leonardo da Vinci)

Action Step: While writing descriptive prose takes some practice, it’s an art you can master with little creative writing skills. To help you write descriptive prose, practice closing your eyes and imagining your subject. 

• What expression is on their face? 
• How are they dressed? 
• What does their body language express? 
• How do they smell? 
• How do they make you feel? 
• How do they make others feel? 
• What’s in their surroundings? 
• What are they doing with their hands? 
• What do you imagine they’re thinking about? 

With questions like these, you’ll start to use descriptive language to bring your subject to life.

Build a balance of objectivity and empathy

Strive for an objective portrayal while infusing empathy and understanding into your writing. Remain aware of biases and preconceived notions, giving your subject the space to shine in their unique light. 

To check yourself, filter your writing and interviewing with these tips:

• Verify Information: Cross-reference information from various sources to ensure accuracy. Use tools like Fact Check Explorer to fact-check claims, dates, and events to avoid errors or inaccuracies that could skew the narrative. 
• Multiple Perspectives: Seek out different viewpoints on the subject. This includes interviewing or reaching out to people with significant interactions or relationships with the subject. Incorporating diverse perspectives can counterbalance biases and provide a broader understanding.
• Empathetic Listening: During interviews or conversations, practice active listening and empathize with the interviewee’s experiences and emotions. This allows you to understand the subject’s perspective and incorporate their insights and feelings into the narrative.
• Contextualize Emotions: When sharing the subject’s emotional experiences or personal struggles, provide sufficient context and background. This helps readers understand the motivations and circumstances behind their actions and allows for empathetic understanding without veering into excessive sentimentality.
• Credible Interpretation: While interpreting the subject’s thoughts, motives, or intentions, be clear about what is factual and what is speculative. Clearly distinguish between evidence-based information and your interpretations to maintain objectivity.
• Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of the subject’s privacy and any requests they may have regarding sensitive or personal information. Respecting their boundaries shows empathy and allows for a respectful portrayal while maintaining the necessary level of objectivity.
• Acknowledge Limitations: Recognize that achieving complete objectivity in a biography is challenging. Biases can inadvertently seep into the narrative. However, by being aware of your biases and consciously presenting a fair and balanced account, you can mitigate their influence.

Respect truth, privacy, and sensitivity

Remember, writing biographies carries ethical responsibilities. It’s important to maintain accuracy through credible research and gain consent while being sensitive to controversial or difficult topics. Here are some considerations:

• Accuracy: Maintain a commitment to truth and accuracy. Verify facts and corroborate information from multiple sources to ensure the reliability of your narrative. Cite your sources and be transparent about any uncertainties or gaps in knowledge.
• Privacy and Consent: Respect the privacy of living individuals mentioned in your biography. Seek consent when sharing personal details or sensitive information. Balance the subject’s right to privacy with the importance of honesty and transparency.
• Sensitivity: Approach sensitive or controversial topics with care and empathy. Consider the potential impact of your words on the subject’s loved ones or affected communities—present differing perspectives without sensationalism or bias.

Writing a Biography FAQs

The length of a biography can vary greatly, depending on the subject and the depth of exploration. Some biographies span a few hundred pages, while others extend to multiple volumes. Focus on capturing the subject’s life’s essence rather than strictly adhering to a predetermined length.

Some common mistakes to avoid when writing a biography include the following: Lack of thorough research or reliance on a single source. Inaccurate or misleading information. Excessive personal bias or projection onto the subject. Neglecting to verify facts or failing to cite sources. Poor organization or a disjointed narrative flow. Neglecting to balance objectivity with empathy. Overloading the biography with irrelevant details or digressions. Failing to respect privacy or ethical considerations.

While chronological order is commonly used in biographies, it is not required. Some biographers employ a thematic approach or explore specific periods or events in the subject’s life. Experiment with different structures to find the most engaging way to tell your subject’s story.

The purpose of writing a biography is to capture and share an individual’s life story. Biographies provide insights into a person’s experiences, achievements, and challenges, offering readers inspiration, knowledge, and understanding. They preserve the legacy of individuals, contribute to historical records, and celebrate the diversity of human lives.

When choosing a subject for your biography, consider someone who inspires you, interests you, or has significantly impacted society. It could be a historical figure, a contemporary icon, or even an everyday individual with a remarkable story. Choose a subject with sufficient available information, access to primary sources or interviews, and a narrative that resonates with you and potential readers.

Key elements to include in a biography are: Early life and background: Provide context about the subject’s upbringing, family, and cultural influences. Achievements and milestones: Highlight notable accomplishments, contributions, and significant events throughout their life. Challenges and struggles: Explore the obstacles they faced, the lessons learned, and how they overcame adversity. Personal characteristics: Describe their personality traits, values, beliefs, and motivations that shaped their actions and decisions. Impact and legacy: Discuss the lasting influence and contributions of the subject, both during their lifetime and beyond.

Including personal anecdotes can add depth and humanize the subject of your biography. However, be selective and ensure that the stories are relevant, contribute to understanding the person’s character or experiences, and align with the overall narrative. Balancing personal anecdotes with factual information is critical to maintaining accuracy and credibility.

Conducting research for a biography involves exploring a variety of sources. Start with primary sources such as personal papers, letters, journals, and interviews with the subject or people who knew them. Secondary sources such as books, articles, and academic papers provide additional context and perspectives. Online databases, archives, libraries, and museums are valuable resources for finding relevant information.

Consult a wide range of sources to ensure a comprehensive and accurate biography. Primary sources, such as personal documents, letters, diaries, and interviews, offer firsthand accounts and unique insights. Secondary sources provide broader context and analysis, including books, articles, scholarly works, and historical records. Remember to evaluate the credibility and reliability of your sources critically.

Organize the information in your biography logically and engagingly. Consider using a chronological structure, starting with the subject’s early life and progressing through significant events and milestones. Alternatively, adopt a thematic approach, grouping related information based on themes or significant aspects of their life. Use clear headings, subheadings, and transitions to guide readers through the narrative flow.

Writing Biographies Key Takeaways

In summary, take note of these ideas and tips before you start writing your biography:

• Biographies hold enduring appeal, offering a glimpse into the human experience across time.
• Thorough research, interviews, and captivating prose are essential for crafting compelling biographies.
• Ethical considerations, such as accuracy, privacy, and sensitivity, are crucial when writing about real people’s lives.
• Choose subjects that genuinely inspire and resonate with you.
• Immerse yourself in the subject’s world to understand their motivations and challenges.
• Develop strong research skills and utilize a wide range of sources.
• Craft a compelling narrative that engages readers from the very first page.
• Seek feedback from trusted sources to refine your writing and storytelling abilities.
• Continuously explore new biographies to broaden your understanding of different styles and approaches.
• Embrace the unique voice and perspective you bring to the storytelling process.

Writing a biography book? Check out this helpful article, How to Write a Book: 10 Questions to Ask Before You Start Writing !

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