Pros and Cons of Writing an Obituary

Not sure if writing an obituary is the right choice? Explore the pros and cons and learn about alternative options to keep the memory of your loved one alive.

Are you wondering whether it’s necessary to write an obituary? It’s a tough decision, but our funeral homes serving Saskatoon, SK is here to help. Writing an obituary can be a great way to remember and honor a loved one, but there are also reasons why a family might not want to. Below, we explore both sides and offer alternative options.

Benefits of Writing an Obituary

Writing an obituary can be therapeutic for the family and the deceased’s loved ones. It provides a space for them to reflect on their memories and share them with others. It can also be a way to publicly honor and celebrate the deceased’s life, which can be a healing experience for those grieving.

Additionally, writing an obituary is a practical way to inform others of the death. It provides relevant information about the deceased’s life, including their full name, date of birth, and date of death. It can also include details about any funeral or memorial services and information on how to make donations or send condolences.

Reasons a Family Might Not Want to Write an Obituary

There are many reasons why a family might want something other than an obituary. For some, it may be a matter of privacy or personal preference. They may not want to share the details of their loved one’s life or death with the public, or they may feel that it’s not necessary.

For others, the decision not to write an obituary may be related to the cost. Depending on the newspaper or publication, obituaries can be expensive. For families already dealing with the financial burden of a funeral or memorial service, the cost of an obituary may be too much.

All these are valid reasons for a family not to publish an obituary. Besides, no law or rule states that families must release one. It’s only one of the many traditions of traditional funeral planning, and people are free to do otherwise.

But choosing not to have an obituary doesn’t mean giving on all its practical benefits. There are alternatives families can explore to pay tribute to their loved ones.

Alternative Options for Publishing an Obituary

If a family decides not to publish an obituary, here are some alternative options to consider:

1. Create a memorial website or social media page: This can be a great way to share memories and photos with friends and family. It can also serve as a virtual space for people to leave condolences and messages of support. It can also be used to share funeral information.
2. Donate to a charity in the deceased’s name: This is a meaningful way to honor their memory and positively impact the world.
3. Plant a tree or garden in their honor: This can be a beautiful way to remember the deceased and provide a living tribute to their life.
4. Host a small gathering or ceremony: This can be a way for family and friends to come together and remember the deceased in a more intimate setting.

To summarize, while it’s always a good idea to write an obituary, it’s not necessary. It’s up to the family to decide according to their needs or the deceased’s wishes. Funeral homes serving Saskatoon, SK, also offer plenty of alternative ways to pay tribute to a loved one and keep their memory alive.