Death is a fact; an obituary turns it into a public record of a life. An obituary is a news article that announces a person’s death and recounts the main events, achievements, and relationships of their life.

Staff-written obituaries of public figures are reported like other news stories, with verification of biographical details and often with comments from colleagues or family. Paid death notices submitted by families are a separate category, though the line can blur in smaller publications.

Good obituaries avoid empty eulogy and instead provide concrete detail that lets readers understand who the person was. They are often read carefully by people who knew the deceased and by historians later seeking reliable personal data. Accuracy in names, dates, and accomplishments is essential.

• News report of a person’s death and life
• Combines announcement with biographical summary
• Staff obituaries are independently reported
• Requires careful verification of personal details