How to Compose a Newspaper Notice

Newspapers usually require the ‘main notice’ of a death to be placed by the funeral home. This is for security purposes and is prepared in conjunction with the family. Other notices may also be placed by members of the family at their own discretion.

Your funeral director will can advise the approximate cost and deadlines for notices.

The guide below may be of help when writing death notices.

Name

The surname comes first, followed by the Christian names. Nicknames or abbreviated names are usually enclosed in quote marks eg “Tom”. You can also place a rank, title or other honour here, including military service details.

Date

State the day and date of death and where it occurred, if appropriate eg On Monday 17 September 2010 at Dunedin Hospital.

Manner of death

The following are the most commonly used terms to describe how the person died.

•  peacefully
•  surrounded by family
•  after a long or short illness
•  tragically taken
•  as a result of an accident
•  after a long/brave struggle/battle or
•  suddenly

Age

Whether you include the deceased’s age is entirely your choice.

Mentioning family and friends

Names can be placed in order of seniority or in order of priority.

It is usual to name all living relatives first, then those who are deceased, preceded by the word ‘late’. Deceased relatives can be referred to as the late Joanne Smith or as John Smith (Dec).

Descriptions

Sometimes it is difficult to know how best to describe a deceased loved one. Here are some of the most common:

• loved
• beloved
• dearly loved
• much loved
• loving, precious
• adored
• treasured
• cherished
• respected
• dear friend
• sincere lifelong friend
• companion
• partner
• wife/ husband, sister/ brother (step)
• daughter/son/infant/baby
• grandmother/father
• nana/papa or any nick-name they were known by.

Inclusive terms may be used when deciding not to print everyone’s names eg: Much loved Nana of all her grandchildren and great grandchildren. or Loved by all her family/nieces/nephews.

Funeral details

It is important to state the date, time and full title and address of the venue for the service. Where there is to be a private service it is usual to insert In accordance with [the deceased’s] wishes, a private service has been held.

Here are some options for introducing the funeral service:

• A service to celebrate the life of …
• A funeral service for … will be held in …
• We will gather to farewell … at …
• A Requiem Mass will be celebrated at …
• A rosary will be recited for …

Special thanks

You may wish to thank a special doctor, nurse, rest home or hospice. e.g. We would like to thank The Otago Community Hospice for their loving care of Tom.

In lieu of flowers

If you do not want flowers to be sent, your notice can read:

• In lieu of flowers, donations to the (institution or charity) would be appreciated and may be left at the service.
• No flowers by request.
• Cut flowers only, please.

Messages

We are more than happy to receive messages on behalf of the family to avoid publishing your address in the newspaper. If you would like us to receive messages on your behalf, instruct that messages be addressed to The [name] family, c/o Gillions Funeral Services, 407 Hillside Road, Dunedin.