How to Write an Obituary (and Plan a Celebration of Life in Maryland)
- jessheddings
- Oct 3
- 4 min read
Writing an obituary can feel overwhelming when you’re grieving. It’s both a public notice and a personal tribute, giving family, friends, and community members the information they need while honoring the story of a loved one’s life.
If you’re also planning a celebration of life, memorial reception, or private gathering in Maryland, the obituary is often the first step in letting others know when and where they can come together.
At Island View Waterfront Café in Essex, MD, we regularly host families along the Chesapeake Bay for weddings, private events, and memorials. Over the years, we’ve seen how meaningful it is to pair thoughtful words with a warm, welcoming space.
Here’s a simple guide to help you write an obituary with ease.
Step 1: Share the Essential Details
Start with the basics: your loved one’s full name, age, hometown, and birth and passing dates. This keeps the obituary clear and informative.
Example:“John A. Smith, 82, of Essex, Maryland, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025.”
If you’d like more examples, this obituary guide from AARP is a helpful reference.
Step 2: List Family Members
Traditionally, obituaries include immediate family — spouses, children, grandchildren, siblings, and parents. Many families also mention close friends or caregivers.
Step 3: Tell Their Story
This is where you can highlight what made them unique. Share their career, hobbies, passions, volunteer work, or even favorite sayings. This section doesn’t have to be long, but it helps readers remember them in a personal way.
Step 4: Include Service or Gathering Information
Let people know where and when they can gather to pay their respects. This could be a funeral, graveside service, or a celebration of life event at a local venue.
Many families near Baltimore choose Island View Waterfront Café because it provides a peaceful, waterfront setting in Essex, Maryland. Whether it’s a sit-down luncheon, a casual buffet, or a larger gathering overlooking the Chesapeake Bay, the right space can make the day feel both meaningful and comforting.
Step 5: Suggest Memorial Contributions
Many obituaries close with suggestions for charitable donations in lieu of flowers. This is a simple way to honor your loved one while giving friends and extended family a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause.
Writing an obituary doesn’t have to be perfect — it simply needs to reflect the life of the person you love and provide the details people need.
If you’re also looking for a celebration of life venue in Maryland, Island View Waterfront Café offers a waterfront event space in Essex, MD for private parties, memorial receptions, and gatherings of all sizes. Families choose us for weddings, birthdays, and life celebrations because of our Chesapeake Bay views, relaxed atmosphere, and caring team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Obituaries & Celebrations of Life
How long should an obituary be?
Most obituaries are 200–500 words. Keep it concise but include the essential details and a few personal touches.
Where can I host a celebration of life in Maryland?
Many families choose a waterfront event venue in Essex, MD like Island View Waterfront Café, which offers indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.
Can a restaurant host a memorial reception?
Yes. Restaurants and event venues in Maryland, like Island View Waterfront Café, provide catering and private spaces for gatherings such as celebrations of life, birthdays, or wedding receptions.
What makes a good obituary?
A good obituary shares the essential details, honors the individual’s life story, and provides service information so loved ones can gather in remembrance.
How to Write an Obituary (and Plan a Celebration of Life in Maryland)
Island View Waterfront offers a flexible approach to celebration of life planning, allowing you to customize your package to suit your needs and budget.
Island View Waterfront is committed to making your dream celebration a reality.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your unforgettable wedding or event.
Wedding Website: www.islandviewwaterfrontevents.net
Cafe Website: www.islandviewwaterfroncafe.com
Instagram: Island View Waterfront Venue, Essex Maryland
About us: Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned wedding venue near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the current stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.
When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire wedding planning process!
We are committed to supporting other locally owned wedding venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:
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