How To Write An Obituary - Jefferson Memorial Cemetery & Funeral Home

Author

Jefferson Memorial Cemetery & Funeral Home

For more information about the author, click to view their website: www.jeffersonmemorial.com

Posted on

Mar 25, 2025

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

A simple checklist for making sure your obituary honors and informs.

When a loved one has passed away, writing an obituary that honors their life can seem overwhelming. Don’t worry - your obituary will honor their life simply by the act of you writing it. You want to celebrate your loved one’s life and offer happy and enjoyable memories. You are helping to ease the pain of others simply by telling a story about your loved one.

We hope that this checklist will take the stress and pressure off of you and allow you to honor your loved one. Remember, your funeral arranger is an experienced professional and is a valuable resource for writing the obituary.

Include basic details about the person’s life

You don’t have to include all of this information, but here are the basics that are often included in an obituary. Choose the elements that are most relevant to your loved one:

  • Age
  • Any familial survivors
  • Education
  • Vocation
  • When the person retired, if relevant
  • Any military affiliations
  • Any volunteer affiliations

Include funeral information

Family and friends often rely on an obituary for information on when and where a person’s life will be celebrated, so your obituary will make it very simple for them to get that information (and will save you the hassle of having to answer lots of questions at a time when you would prefer not to be bothered with small details). You can include:

  • Date and time of the funeral
  • Place the funeral is being held
  • Any viewing details
  • Request for donations in lieu of flowers

Other Articles You May Like

Supporting Independence and Aging with Dignity: Understanding Care Management and Advocacy Services for Older Adults

Supporting Independence and Aging with Dignity: Understanding Care Management and Advocacy Services for Older AdultsAs the population ages, more families are finding themselves navigating the complex and often overwhelming world of elder care. From managing chronic health conditions to arranging safe housing and transportation, supporting an older adult through the aging process requires careful planning, clear information, and access to the right resources.One model that has become increasingly important in this landscape is care management, a service designed to bridge the gaps between families, healthcare providers, and community support systems. Organizations like Solutions for Independence, based in Western Pennsylvania, offer insight into how this model worksand why it matters. What Is Senior Care Management?Senior care management is a professional service that helps older adults and their families coordinate care and make informed decisions. Often led by certified care managers or aging life care professionals, these services typically include: Assessing the individuals physical, cognitive, and emotional needs Coordinating medical care and follow-ups Identifying appropriate community resources Providing support to family caregivers Assisting with transitions from hospital to home or residential care Care management can be particularly useful in complex situationssuch as when a loved one has multiple medical conditions, lives alone, or doesnt have family nearby. Its not about taking over decision-making; rather, its about providing clarity, expertise, and personalized planning. The Value of Advocacy in Elder CareAnother critical area in the aging process is advocacyespecially when it comes to navigating healthcare systems and long-term planning. Advocacy services focus on ensuring that older adults receive care that aligns with their values, preferences, and rights.Advocates often step in to: Communicate with doctors and insurance providers Help seniors and families understand legal tools like Power of Attorney Navigate public benefits such as Medicaid, Medicare, or Veterans programs Mediate family disagreements around care While medical professionals often concentrate on diagnoses and treatment, advocates take a broader viewone that includes quality of life, dignity, and autonomy. Aging in Place: A Growing PriorityAccording to AARP, nearly 90% of older adults say they want to age in place. But doing so safely and comfortably requires planningand sometimes, professional input.Services like home safety assessments can make a meaningful difference. These evaluations often identify risks such as poor lighting, slippery floors, or lack of grab bars. Recommendations may include home modifications, adaptive equipment, or the introduction of in-home care services.Some care management organizations partner directly with home health providers, physical therapists, and contractors to implement these changes. By focusing on prevention, they help reduce the risk of falls and hospitalizationstwo of the most common and costly events in older adults lives. Empowering Family CaregiversFamily caregivers are often the unsung heroes of elder carebut they can also experience burnout, decision fatigue, and emotional strain. Thats why more families are turning to services that support and coach caregivers through these challenges.Common areas of support include: Education on chronic illnesses like dementia or Parkinsons Respite care coordination Assistance with managing medical records and appointments Help during crises, such as hospitalizations or care facility transfers In these situations, a care manager or eldercare consultant can act as a neutral guide, helping families navigate tough conversations and make informed choices without the burden falling on one person. Planning for the Financial Side of CareSenior care can be expensive, and understanding available financial support options is crucial. Benefits counseling is one lesser-known but incredibly valuable service offered by many eldercare professionals.This may involve: Identifying eligibility for Medicaid waiver programs Applying for the VA Aid & Attendance pension Reviewing long-term care insurance policies Estimating out-of-pocket care expenses Advising on estate planning tools, often in partnership with legal professionals Even families with means can benefit from this guidance, especially when trying to preserve assets while ensuring quality care. A Collaborative Model for Aging WellUltimately, organizations that provide care management and advocacy serviceslike Solutions for Independencerepresent a collaborative model for aging. They don't replace the role of family or healthcare providers but instead act as coordinators, educators, and facilitators, working across disciplines to support seniors in maintaining autonomy and quality of life.Whether you're helping a parent recover after surgery, navigating a new dementia diagnosis, or simply planning for the future, knowing these services exist can make a tremendous difference. Aging well isn't just about good medical careit's also about having the right guidance, support, and plans in place. Care management and advocacy services are essential tools in this process, helping families make confident, informed decisions during what can be a challenging and emotional time. If you're starting to think about elder care for a loved oneor even for yourselfconsider learning more about care management and how it might fit into your plan. The more proactive you are, the more options youll have to ensure safety, independence, and peace of mind.

More Than a Directory: How Seniors Blue Book Helps You Build Community and Brand Authority

In todays saturated market, getting your senior care or home health business noticed isnt just about being listedits about standing out. Thats where Seniors Blue Book steps in. Were more than just a directorywere a trusted resource used by families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and aging adults across the country.If you're looking for ways to grow your business, establish brand authority, and become a well-known name in your local community, advertising with Seniors Blue Book is one of the smartest moves you can make. In this blog post, well walk you through how we help you go beyond a basic listing and become a trusted local expert. Why Professionals Trust Seniors Blue Book1. Built-In Trust with Your Target AudienceThe Seniors Blue Book has been around for decadesand that kind of longevity matters. Families and professionals rely on our platform as a go-to resource when making care decisions. By placing your business here, youre instantly gaining trust by association.2. Comprehensive Print + Digital ExposureWith over 2.7 million directories distributed annually and a growing digital footprint through SeniorsBlueBook.com, your brand gets the best of both worlds. Our targeted print distribution reaches seniors and caregivers directly in their communities, while our robust online directory helps you get discovered through local SEO.You have the option to do both Print+ Digital advertising: https://seniorsbluebook.com/local, but that our Digital offerings are available nationwide. Pro Tip: Dont underestimate the power of print! Many seniors prefer having a physical directory on hand. And our digital platform ensures their adult children can find you online too.3. Become a Recognized Community ResourceAdvertising with Seniors Blue Book means more than a line in a directoryits a chance to participate in community events, networking groups, and educational seminars. These engagements help position your brand as a caring, involved leader in senior services.4. Free Listing with Real Valueand a Clear Path to UpgradeOur free listings already offer value and visibilitybut when you're ready to take your exposure to the next level, our upgrade options deliver. Businesses that upgrade often see more leads, higher engagement, and greater brand recognition.Ready to see what an upgrade could do for your business? Contact us for a free listing audit at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 to speak with a local rep!5. Built-In SEO BoostOur website is optimized to rank highly in local search results, meaning your business will appear when people search for services in your area. Our team works behind the scenes to help make sure your business stays visible online without you having to do the heavy lifting.6. Share-Worthy Content and Storytelling OpportunitiesWe help businesses shine with custom blog features, social media highlights, and storytelling opportunities that humanize your brand. This not only builds your authority but also helps families emotionally connect with your services. Additional Tips to Maximize Your Listing Use high-quality images in your profilephotos of your facility, staff, or happy clients make a difference. Keep your listing updated. Outdated info can turn people away quickly. Respond to inquiries promptly. The faster you follow up, the better your chances of building trust. Join local SBB events or sponsor community activities for added visibility. Common Mistake to Avoid: Dont just set it and forget it. Your profile should evolve as your services, team, or contact details change. At Seniors Blue Book, were proud to be more than just a directory. Were your partner in building a strong local presence, earning trust, and making meaningful connections with families and caregivers who need your services. Whether youre new to advertising or simply looking for a better way to reach the right audience, Seniors Blue Book offers the visibility, credibility, and community engagement youve been looking for. Lets build your brand together. Reach out to us at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or give us a call at 800-201-9989 to get started with your free listing and explore upgrade options that fit your goals.

Trusted by Professionals: Why Healthcare and Senior Living Experts Recommend Advertising in Seniors Blue Book

In the crowded world of senior care and home health services, standing out to families and caregivers can feel nearly impossible. You might offer exceptional services, but without visibility, your business risks being overlooked. Thats where Seniors Blue Book makes all the difference.For decades, healthcare professionals and senior living experts have recommended advertising with Seniors Blue Bookand for good reason. It's more than just a directory; it's a trusted, go-to resource for older adults, caregivers, and referral partners looking for reputable providers.In this blog, well break down exactly why advertising with Seniors Blue Book is a smart move for your business, how it increases exposure, and how to make the most of your listing both online and in print. Why Seniors Blue Book Works1. We Reach the Right Audience at the Right TimeOur platform is specifically designed for older adults, caregivers, and referral professionals searching for senior-focused services. Whether someone is looking for in-home care, assisted living, or medical services, they come to Seniors Blue Book to find trusted options in their area.With both print and digital distribution, we reach audiences where they arewhether they prefer flipping through a physical directory or browsing on their phone or tablet.2. Built-In Trust and ReputationSeniors Blue Book has been a staple in senior communities for over 45 years. When you advertise with Seniors Blue Book, you're aligning with a brand that seniors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals already trust. This credibility adds value to your brand by association.3. Get Found with a Free ListingWe believe in showing value upfront. Thats why every provider gets a free listing on SeniorsBlueBook.comgiving you an immediate presence in front of thousands of monthly site visitors. Businesses who start with the free listing often see the benefit and naturally choose to upgrade for even greater exposure.4. Enhanced Online VisibilityOur website is optimized for search engines, helping your business show up in local searches. An upgraded listing includes features like direct contact links, images, videos, social media links, and moreall designed to drive traffic directly to you. Want to see how Seniors Blue Book can help you stand out in your local market? Reach out today for a free consultation: hello@seniorsbluebook.com | 800-201-9989 Additional Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your ListingComplete Your Profile: Add a detailed description, photos, and service offerings to make your listing stand out.Stay Active: Update your listing regularly to reflect new services or changes.Use Keywords: Include relevant terms like home care, senior living, or memory care in your business description to boost searchability.Share Your Listing: Promote it on your website and social media to drive even more traffic. Common Mistake to Avoid: Neglecting your online listing after its live. A stale or outdated profile can hurt credibility. Refresh your content regularly. Advertising with Seniors Blue Book isnt just about getting your name out thereits about connecting with the right audience when they need your services the most.With our trusted reputation, powerful combination of print and digital reach, and a strong SEO foundation, Seniors Blue Book is a smart, strategic investment for any business in the senior care industry.Take the first step toward growing your visibility and reaching the families and professionals searching for your services.You can view all of our printed guides at: https://seniorsbluebook.com/printed-editionsEmail us at hello@seniorsbluebook.com and call us at 800-201-9989 Lets help more people find your businessbecause being seen means being chosen.

Local Services By This Author

Jefferson Memorial Cemetery & Funeral Home

Funeral Cremation & Mortuary Services 401 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15236

When it comes to honoring your loved ones with dignity and care, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Funeral Home, Crematory & Arboretum stands as a trusted name in Pittsburghs South Hills. For nearly a century, this family-owned business has been dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized services to help families navigate lifes most difficult moments. Whether you're planning ahead or in immediate need, Jefferson Memorial offers everything you need to create lasting memories for your loved ones with unparalleled service and attention to detail.A Legacy of Service and TraditionFounded in 1929, Jefferson Memorial is a fourth-generation, veteran-owened, family-operated cemetery, funeral home, and crematory. With over 180 beautifully landscaped acres and a commitment to exceptional service, it has become one of the largest and most respected privately-owned cemeteries in the country. Whether you're seeking traditional burial, cremation services, or customized memorialization options, Jefferson Memorial has been a beacon of reliability and trust for families throughout Pittsburgh and beyond. With its stunning location, dedicated staff, and a comprehensive range of services, this cemetery and funeral home can meet the needs of every family, no matter their wishes or cultural traditions.Comprehensive Funeral Services Tailored to Your NeedsAt Jefferson Memorial, youll find a full-service funeral home thats equipped to handle every detail with care. The funeral home offers professional and sensitive services, whether you are pre-planning a ceremony or in immediate need of assistance. The facility includes four spacious visitation rooms, a welcoming hospitality room, and even a dedicated childrens area to ensure that all members of your family are comfortable during this emotional time.What sets Jefferson Memorial apart is its seamless integration of funeral home, crematory, and cemetery services. With an on-site crematory, your loved ones remain under the care of the funeral homes compassionate staff throughout the entire process, which ensures a stress-free and respectful experience from beginning to end. The funeral home also offers a range of personalized memorial options, including cremation jewelry, benches, keepsake urns, and much more, so you can create a tribute that reflects the unique life of your loved one.Beautiful Grounds with a Peaceful, Natural SettingSet on 180 acres, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery offers a beautiful and unique environment for families to reflect, remember, and honor their loved ones. The meticulously maintained grounds are more than just a cemetery; they are a certified Level II arboretum featuring a diverse array of trees, flowers, and plants that create a peaceful atmosphere conducive to healing and remembrance.The cemetery features 47 beautifully landscaped burial gardens, including dedicated sections for children and veterans. This variety ensures that families have multiple options for burial, including personalized memorials and private estates that reflect individual life stories. Jefferson Memorial also offers unique sections, such as a shared space for both pets and people, acknowledging the deep bonds we share with our animal companions.A Trusted Crematory Service You Can Rely OnFor those who prefer cremation, Jefferson Memorial is proud to have its own state-of-the-art crematory on-site. This exclusive service ensures that your loved ones remain in the care of the Jefferson Memorial family throughout the entire cremation process. With the highest standards of respect and care, Jefferson Memorial offers families peace of mind, knowing that all services are performed by a trusted team in a safe, professional environment.The funeral home offers a variety of cremation memorialization options to help you honor your loved one in a meaningful way. Whether you choose cremation jewelry, personalized urns, or Parting Stones solidified stones made from cremated remains you can create a tribute that beautifully reflects your loved ones life.Commemorating the Lives of Veterans and PetsJefferson Memorial is deeply committed to honoring those who have served in the military, and as such, offers special sections for veterans, ensuring that their sacrifices are forever remembered. These veteran sections, along with the cemeterys personalized memorials, serve as a fitting tribute to the men and women who have served this country.Additionally, Jefferson Memorial recognizes the importance of pets in the lives of families and offers dedicated pet sections within the cemetery. These sections provide families with a peaceful resting place for their beloved animal companions. Whether you choose to bury your pet individually or alongside your family members, Jefferson Memorial ensures that every member of your family no matter their species is cared for and remembered with respect.Pre-Planning Services: Giving You Peace of MindPlanning ahead not only alleviates stress on your loved ones, but it also ensures that your wishes are honored. Jefferson Memorial provides pre-planning services to help you make the necessary arrangements in advance. Their compassionate and licensed team is available to discuss options, assist with financial planning, and guide you through the process, ensuring that every detail is taken care of long before the time of need. By pre-planning with Jefferson Memorial, you can ensure that your family will be spared the burden of making difficult decisions during a challenging time.Immediate Need Assistance: Here When You Need Us MostIn a time of immediate need, Jefferson Memorial is always available to help. The funeral home operates 24/7 to assist families in Pittsburgh and the South Hills area, providing support, guidance, and expert care during lifes most difficult moments. Whether you need to make arrangements immediately or simply have questions about your options, our Jefferson Memorial staff is here to help with sensitivity and professionalism.Why Choose Jefferson Memorial?Trusted Legacy: Jefferson Memorial has been a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh community for over 95 years, offering unmatched service and care to families during their most difficult times.Comprehensive Services: From pre-planning to funeral services, cremation, burial, and memorialization, Jefferson Memorial offers a one-stop solution for all your needs.Beautiful, Serene Grounds: The cemeterys 180-acre certified arboretum offers a stunning natural setting that provides comfort and solace to families.Veteran and Pet Services: Special sections and memorials to honor veterans and pets.Personalized Memorials: From keepsake jewelry to custom urns, Jefferson Memorial offers unique ways to memorialize your loved ones.Whether you are planning ahead or need immediate assistance, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Funeral Home, Crematory & Arboretum is here to serve you. Our expert team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today at (412) 655-4501 or visit our website for more information about the services they offer and how we can help create a meaningful and lasting tribute for your loved one.

Jefferson Memorial Cemetery

Cemetery 401 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15236

When it comes to honoring your loved ones with dignity and care, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Funeral Home, Crematory & Arboretum stands as a trusted name in Pittsburghs South Hills. For nearly a century, this family-owned business has been dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized services to help families navigate lifes most difficult moments. Whether you're planning ahead or in immediate need, Jefferson Memorial offers everything you need to create lasting memories for your loved ones with unparalleled service and attention to detail.A Legacy of Service and TraditionFounded in 1929, Jefferson Memorial is a fourth-generation, veteran-owened, family-operated cemetery, funeral home, and crematory. With over 180 beautifully landscaped acres and a commitment to exceptional service, it has become one of the largest and most respected privately-owned cemeteries in the country. Whether you're seeking traditional burial, cremation services, or customized memorialization options, Jefferson Memorial has been a beacon of reliability and trust for families throughout Pittsburgh and beyond. With its stunning location, dedicated staff, and a comprehensive range of services, this cemetery and funeral home can meet the needs of every family, no matter their wishes or cultural traditions.Comprehensive Funeral Services Tailored to Your NeedsAt Jefferson Memorial, youll find a full-service funeral home thats equipped to handle every detail with care. The funeral home offers professional and sensitive services, whether you are pre-planning a ceremony or in immediate need of assistance. The facility includes four spacious visitation rooms, a welcoming hospitality room, and even a dedicated childrens area to ensure that all members of your family are comfortable during this emotional time.What sets Jefferson Memorial apart is its seamless integration of funeral home, crematory, and cemetery services. With an on-site crematory, your loved ones remain under the care of the funeral homes compassionate staff throughout the entire process, which ensures a stress-free and respectful experience from beginning to end. The funeral home also offers a range of personalized memorial options, including cremation jewelry, benches, keepsake urns, and much more, so you can create a tribute that reflects the unique life of your loved one.Beautiful Grounds with a Peaceful, Natural SettingSet on 180 acres, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery offers a beautiful and unique environment for families to reflect, remember, and honor their loved ones. The meticulously maintained grounds are more than just a cemetery; they are a certified Level II arboretum featuring a diverse array of trees, flowers, and plants that create a peaceful atmosphere conducive to healing and remembrance.The cemetery features 47 beautifully landscaped burial gardens, including dedicated sections for children and veterans. This variety ensures that families have multiple options for burial, including personalized memorials and private estates that reflect individual life stories. Jefferson Memorial also offers unique sections, such as a shared space for both pets and people, acknowledging the deep bonds we share with our animal companions.A Trusted Crematory Service You Can Rely OnFor those who prefer cremation, Jefferson Memorial is proud to have its own state-of-the-art crematory on-site. This exclusive service ensures that your loved ones remain in the care of the Jefferson Memorial family throughout the entire cremation process. With the highest standards of respect and care, Jefferson Memorial offers families peace of mind, knowing that all services are performed by a trusted team in a safe, professional environment.The funeral home offers a variety of cremation memorialization options to help you honor your loved one in a meaningful way. Whether you choose cremation jewelry, personalized urns, or Parting Stones solidified stones made from cremated remains you can create a tribute that beautifully reflects your loved ones life.Commemorating the Lives of Veterans and PetsJefferson Memorial is deeply committed to honoring those who have served in the military, and as such, offers special sections for veterans, ensuring that their sacrifices are forever remembered. These veteran sections, along with the cemeterys personalized memorials, serve as a fitting tribute to the men and women who have served this country.Additionally, Jefferson Memorial recognizes the importance of pets in the lives of families and offers dedicated pet sections within the cemetery. These sections provide families with a peaceful resting place for their beloved animal companions. Whether you choose to bury your pet individually or alongside your family members, Jefferson Memorial ensures that every member of your family no matter their species is cared for and remembered with respect.Pre-Planning Services: Giving You Peace of MindPlanning ahead not only alleviates stress on your loved ones, but it also ensures that your wishes are honored. Jefferson Memorial provides pre-planning services to help you make the necessary arrangements in advance. Their compassionate and licensed team is available to discuss options, assist with financial planning, and guide you through the process, ensuring that every detail is taken care of long before the time of need. By pre-planning with Jefferson Memorial, you can ensure that your family will be spared the burden of making difficult decisions during a challenging time.Immediate Need Assistance: Here When You Need Us MostIn a time of immediate need, Jefferson Memorial is always available to help. The funeral home operates 24/7 to assist families in Pittsburgh and the South Hills area, providing support, guidance, and expert care during lifes most difficult moments. Whether you need to make arrangements immediately or simply have questions about your options, our Jefferson Memorial staff is here to help with sensitivity and professionalism.Why Choose Jefferson Memorial?Trusted Legacy: Jefferson Memorial has been a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh community for over 95 years, offering unmatched service and care to families during their most difficult times.Comprehensive Services: From pre-planning to funeral services, cremation, burial, and memorialization, Jefferson Memorial offers a one-stop solution for all your needs.Beautiful, Serene Grounds: The cemeterys 180-acre certified arboretum offers a stunning natural setting that provides comfort and solace to families.Veteran and Pet Services: Special sections and memorials to honor veterans and pets.Personalized Memorials: From keepsake jewelry to custom urns, Jefferson Memorial offers unique ways to memorialize your loved ones.Whether you are planning ahead or need immediate assistance, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Funeral Home, Crematory & Arboretum is here to serve you. Our expert team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today at (412) 655-4501 or visit our website for more information about the services they offer and how we can help create a meaningful and lasting tribute for your loved one.