Obituary Examples for a Brother
Short and longer obituary samples helping you write with warmth and clarity.
Writing an obituary can feel daunting when emotions are still raw. These obituary examples for a brother offer gentle guidance — showing how short and longer samples can express love, gratitude, and a sense of who they were.
Each sample obituary is written with care to help you share their story clearly and sincerely. Whether you’re preparing a short notice or a fuller tribute, you’ll find inspiration here to help you write with warmth, balance, and a personal touch.
Short Obituary Examples for a Brother
These short obituary samples for a brother are simple, clear, and heartfelt — ideal for printed notices, funeral programs, or online announcements.
💬 If you’d like a little more step-by-step help before exploring the samples, our guide on how to write an obituary offers practical advice and structure to help you begin.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 1 – Traditional and Factual
David Andrew Hughes, aged 44, passed away peacefully on 10 February 2024, surrounded by his family.
A devoted son, brother, and friend, David will be remembered for his honesty, work ethic, and loyalty.
He worked as an engineer for over twenty years and was respected by all who knew him.
He is survived by his parents, James and Claire, and his sister, Laura. A service of thanksgiving will be held at St John’s Church on 17 February 2024 at 11 a.m. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to the British Heart Foundation.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our wonderful brother, Peter “Pete” Clarke, passed away on 8 April 2024 at the age of 38.
Pete had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. He loved cycling, music, and cooking Sunday roasts for friends and family. His laugh was infectious, and his heart was always open.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Pete’s life at Oakwood Chapel on 15 April 2024 at noon. Please wear bright colours — he’d want the day filled with life and laughter.
Pete’s love, warmth, and kindness will be remembered forever by all who were lucky enough to know him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
John “Johnny” Adewale, aged 40, went home to be with the Lord on 6 March 2024.
A beloved son, brother, and friend, Johnny’s faith and optimism inspired everyone he met. He was active in his church’s outreach ministry and lived by the words “to serve is to love.”
He is survived by his parents, three siblings, and many friends who will cherish his memory. A home-going service will be held at Grace Chapel on 13 March 2024 at 10 a.m.
Johnny’s compassion, humour, and deep faith will continue to guide and uplift all who loved him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
James “Jamie” Patel, aged 35, passed away unexpectedly on 21 June 2024.
Jamie was adventurous, thoughtful, and endlessly curious. He loved travel, photography, and discovering new music.
His friends describe him as someone who brought calm to chaos and humour to every moment.
A memorial gathering will be held at The Riverside Hall on 28 June 2024 at 3 p.m. Family and friends are invited to share stories and music in his honour.
Jamie’s kindness, creativity, and spirit of adventure will never be forgotten.
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Brother
These longer obituary samples for a brother offer more space to share his story — capturing his character, milestones, and the love he brought to those around him.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 1 – Traditional Full Version
Michael Robert Turner, aged 47, passed away peacefully on 14 January 2024, surrounded by family.
A devoted son, brother, and friend, Michael was known for his integrity, generosity, and sense of humour. Born in Leeds, he worked as a carpenter and took great pride in creating things built to last — both in his craft and his relationships.
He loved spending time with family, fishing on quiet weekends, and telling stories that made everyone laugh. His care and loyalty touched everyone who knew him.
A service of thanksgiving will be held at St Andrew’s Church on 21 January 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Oak Meadow Cemetery. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Michael’s legacy of love, hard work, and laughter will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our beloved brother, Daniel “Dan” Wilson, passed away on 4 May 2024, aged 39.
Dan had a rare gift for connecting people. He loved family gatherings, home-cooked meals, and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed. His compassion and humour filled every room.
He worked as a social care coordinator and believed that kindness could change lives. His colleagues will remember him for his patience and dedication to others.
A celebration of Dan’s life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 11 May 2024 at noon, followed by refreshments. Guests are encouraged to share stories that capture his warmth and laughter.
Dan’s family will forever cherish his smile, generosity, and unwavering loyalty — the threads that bound them together.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Samuel “Sam” Eze, aged 42, went to be with the Lord on 17 September 2024.
A devoted brother, uncle, and friend, Sam lived a life rooted in faith and service. He served as a youth mentor at New Life Church and was known for his humility, wisdom, and joyful heart.
He loved gospel music, football, and long conversations that left people encouraged and hopeful.
Sam was a quiet strength in his family — always there with advice, laughter, and faith-filled words.
A home-going service will be held at New Life Church on 24 September 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield. His family gives thanks for the outpouring of love and prayers received.
Sam’s life was a testimony to faith in action — lived with purpose, kindness, and love.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Thomas “Tom” Nguyen, aged 33, passed away peacefully on 2 December 2024.
Tom was a brother, son, and friend who brought light and curiosity into every room. He worked as a designer and loved exploring new ideas, music, and places. His creativity touched both his work and the people around him.
He travelled widely and was happiest when capturing life’s small moments through his camera lens.
His sense of humour, empathy, and gentle spirit made him easy to love and hard to forget.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 9 December 2024 at 2 p.m. Friends are invited to bring stories and photos to share in his memory.
Tom’s warmth, laughter, and generosity will remain forever in the hearts of those he left behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for my brother?
Include his full name, age, date of passing, family members, and short details that reflect his personality — his work, passions, or the way he connected with others. You can also add information about funeral or memorial services and preferred charities for donations.
How long should an obituary for a brother be?
Short newspaper notices are often 80–120 words, while online or printed versions are 150–300 words. Choose a length that allows you to express what truly mattered most about his life and character.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary is a written summary of his life and passing, often including service details. A eulogy or funeral speech is spoken and tends to include stories, memories, and emotion. Both serve as lasting ways to honour him.
Should I include how my brother passed away?
That’s entirely your choice. Some families include it to acknowledge illness or raise awareness, while others prefer privacy. If you include it, keep the wording brief and gentle — for example, “passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or personalise them with your brother’s name, hobbies, or special moments that reflect his character. Adding small personal details helps make the obituary feel truly yours.
Where can I publish or share an obituary for my brother?
You can share it in a local newspaper, through a funeral home, or on an online memorial platform. Some families also include it in an order of service or print it as a keepsake beside a photo and dates.
How do I start writing when it feels too emotional?
Begin with simple facts — his name, age, and family — then add a few lines about what made him special. You can refine it later. The most meaningful tributes come from honesty, not perfection.
🕯️ When You’re Ready to Say More, We Can Help
After the obituary comes a harder task — finding the right words to say goodbye at a service.
We can shape a first draft from your memories, ready for you to personalise — or offer gentle guidance on what you’ve already written, so your tribute feels true to you.
Giving you space to grieve, be with loved ones, and focus on arrangements.