This “how-to” article is reprinted from the Winter 2007 issue of the newsletter of the Associated Historical Societies of Los Angeles County.

Newsletter editor Paul Rippens tells us it was submitted by AHSLAC president Danny Munoz but is not sure of the original author. If you are out there, tell us — we’ll be delighted to credit you. The subject is vital to all of us but often overlooked.

To save money, families sometimes deny future generations of family, friends and genealogists a gold mine of information on a life well lived.

I often read obituaries that are short — almost terse — containing no information on the life of the recently deceased loved one. A thorough obituary shares information about the passions and the history of the deceased’s life.
I encourage everyone who cares about genealogy and family to prepare his or her obituary in advance and think about the following:

• What was important to me?
• What did I give to the community?
• Who are my descendants?

A competent editor should review the result in order to spot missing information and edit for clarity. Following this procedure will make it more likely the writer will end up with a complete and polished account of his or her life.

My mother has made a habit of keeping the obituaries of our family and friends for years. People should try to imagine the message their obituary will provide for future generations.

Often I read that the deceased had 10 children and 20 grandchildren, without any mention of the family members’ names, occupations or hometowns. When provided, this information is valuable to future generations as they construct their family tree or family histories.

I see nothing wrong — and everything good — about writing your own obituary. Just as writing a will is preparation for the inevitable, writing your obituary — and designing and building your own memorial — are the actions of responsible people.

Consider including a photo with your obituary. A photograph speaks volumes about a person and may be the only image available to future generations. Multiple photographs or a photograph from young adulthood is fine and will portray your life as you would like it portrayed.

Planning allows you to be in control. Give a copy of your self-written obituary to the funeral home where you have made your pre-need arrangements, along with written instructions indicating that you would like the obituary published upon your death.