Writing an obituary for a brother or sister

A sibling is often the person who remembers your whole life with you. Writing their obituary means telling a story you were part of — which is why the best details often come from childhood.

Coordinate with the family

If your sibling had a spouse or children, they usually have the final say. Offer to draft it, and ask them to review names and service details.

Listing the family

Spouse and children come first, then parents, then siblings. Half-siblings and step-siblings can simply be listed as brothers and sisters — use whatever the family actually said at home.

Details worth including

• A childhood story the family still tells
• Their work, service, or passions as an adult
• How they were as an aunt or uncle

Example

Fictional example.