What is an obituary?

An obituary is a formal announcement regarding a person's death. It typically includes essential details such as the date and place of death, as well as information about the deceased's life, which may encompass a brief biography—including their personal history, accomplishments, and surviving family members. Additionally, obituaries often provide details about the funeral services, including the date, time, and location, which is important for informing the community about opportunities to pay their respects. This dual function of announcing death and providing related service information distinguishes an obituary from other forms of writing about a person's life, making it a comprehensive notice rather than just a brief summary or legal document.