How to List Special Friends in an Obituary
Writing an obituary is an emotional and delicate task, especially when it comes to acknowledging the special friends who played a significant role in the deceased’s life. Including these special friends in the obituary not only honors their memory but also provides closure to the bereaved family. This article will guide you through the process of listing special friends in an obituary, ensuring that their contribution to the deceased’s life is recognized and celebrated.
1. Identify the Special Friends
The first step in listing special friends in an obituary is to identify those who had a meaningful relationship with the deceased. Consider the friends who were closest to the deceased, those who shared important life events, or individuals who offered unwavering support during difficult times. Make a list of these special friends to ensure that you include everyone who deserves recognition.
2. Choose the Right Format
There are various ways to list special friends in an obituary. The format you choose will depend on the space available and the level of detail you wish to provide. Here are some common formats:
– Comma-separated List: Simply list the names of the special friends, separated by commas. For example: “Special friends include John Smith, Mary Johnson, and Robert Brown.”
– Bullet Points: Use bullet points to make the list more visually appealing and to include additional details. For example: “Special friends include: John Smith, who shared countless adventures with the deceased; Mary Johnson, who was a constant source of comfort and support; Robert Brown, who celebrated every victory with the deceased.”
– Short Paragraph: Write a brief paragraph to describe the special friends and their relationship with the deceased. For example: “The deceased was surrounded by a loving circle of friends, including John Smith, who shared countless memories and experiences; Mary Johnson, who was a constant source of support and encouragement; and Robert Brown, who celebrated every victory with the deceased.”
3. Personalize the Language
When listing special friends in an obituary, it’s important to use language that reflects their relationship with the deceased. Consider using adjectives and adverbs to describe their qualities and the impact they had on the deceased’s life. For example:
– “Dear friends, we mourn the loss of our beloved John, who was cherished by so many, including his dear friends Mary, who was always there to lend a listening ear, and Robert, who shared countless moments of joy and laughter with him.”
– “Our hearts are heavy with the passing of our dear friend, Jane, who leaves behind a legacy of love and friendship. Among her closest companions were Mary, who stood by her side through thick and thin, and Robert, who will always be remembered for his unwavering support.”
4. Proofread and Edit
Before finalizing the obituary, take the time to proofread and edit the section that lists the special friends. Ensure that all names are spelled correctly and that the language used is appropriate for the occasion. Double-check the formatting to ensure that the list is visually appealing and easy to read.
5. Share the Obituary
Once the obituary is complete, share it with the deceased’s family and friends. They will appreciate your efforts to honor the special friends who were an integral part of their loved one’s life.
By following these steps, you can effectively list special friends in an obituary, ensuring that their memory is cherished and celebrated for years to come.
