Obituary Examples for a Brother-in-Law
Short and longer obituary samples helping you write with warmth and clarity.
Writing an obituary for a brother-in-law can feel deeply personal — he may have been like a brother, a friend, or a mentor. These obituary examples for a brother-in-law offer gentle guidance through short and longer samples that reflect respect, fondness, and gratitude.
Each example is written to help you share his story with authenticity, whether for a printed notice or a longer remembrance.
Short Obituary Examples for a Brother-in-Law
These short obituary samples for a brother-in-law 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
Peter “Pete” Hamilton, aged 73, passed away peacefully on 10 February 2024.
A devoted husband, brother, brother-in-law, and friend, Pete will be remembered for his honesty, humour, and generosity. He worked as a joiner for more than 40 years and was known for his craftsmanship and dedication to family.
He is survived by his wife, children, and extended family. A service of thanksgiving will be held at St Mary’s Church on 17 February 2024 at 11 a.m. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to the British Heart Foundation.
Pete’s kindness and laughter will be remembered by all who knew him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our dear brother-in-law, James “Jim” Taylor, passed away on 6 April 2024, aged 67.
Jim brought light and laughter wherever he went. He loved fishing trips, Sunday dinners, and telling stories that made everyone laugh until they cried.
His humour and warmth drew people in, and his loyalty made them stay.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Oakwood Chapel on 13 April 2024 at noon. Please wear cheerful colours to honour his joyful spirit.
We’ll miss his jokes, his wisdom, and his knack for making ordinary days memorable.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Emmanuel “Emma” Osei, aged 69, went home to be with the Lord on 16 March 2024.
A beloved husband, brother, and brother-in-law, Emmanuel lived a life of faith, service, and gratitude. He was a long-standing member of Grace Church and loved singing hymns and mentoring younger members.
He is survived by his wife, children, and extended family. A home-going service will be held at Grace Church on 23 March 2024 at 10 a.m.
Emmanuel’s faith, kindness, and devotion will continue to inspire those who knew him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
Michael “Mick” Howard, aged 65, passed away peacefully on 21 June 2024.
Mick was a husband, brother, and brother-in-law who lived life with warmth and curiosity. He worked as a designer and enjoyed walking, jazz, and time spent with family.
He loved good conversation and never lost his sense of humour, even during hard times. A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 28 June 2024 at 3 p.m.
Mick’s creativity, generosity, and open heart will be remembered with love.
🌿 Writing an Obituary Can Feel Overwhelming — We Can Help
Our Obituary Writing Service can help shape your memories clearly and respectfully, ready for print or online use, and delivered within 24–48 hours.
Giving you a moment of relief — and the presence to focus on what matters most.
Longer Obituary Examples for a Brother-in-law
These longer obituary samples for a brother-in-law 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
John “Jack” Mitchell, aged 77, passed away peacefully on 7 January 2024, surrounded by family.
A devoted husband, brother, and brother-in-law, Jack lived his life with honesty, humility, and kindness. Born in Leeds, he worked as a teacher for over thirty years, encouraging countless students to pursue their potential.
He loved gardening, reading history books, and sharing stories over a cup of tea. His sense of humour and patience made him a steady presence in his family’s lives.
A service of thanksgiving will be held at St Andrew’s Church on 14 January 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Oak Meadow Cemetery. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society.
Jack’s warmth and integrity will remain an inspiration to all who knew and loved him.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our beloved brother-in-law, Robert “Bob” Jenkins, passed away on 20 April 2024, aged 71.
Bob was the glue that held family gatherings together — always the first to offer a toast or a helping hand. He loved football, barbecues, and spending weekends with his grandchildren.
He worked as a builder and was known for his humour, craftsmanship, and reliability. Everyone who knew him valued his honesty and generous spirit.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 27 April 2024 at noon. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and photographs that capture his laughter and warmth.
Bob’s family will forever remember his kindness, steady guidance, and the love he shared so freely.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
David “Dave” Adeyemi, aged 70, went to be with the Lord on 17 September 2024.
A devoted husband, brother, and brother-in-law, Dave lived a life anchored in faith and compassion. He served as a church elder and was deeply respected for his wisdom, patience, and generosity.
He loved gospel music, morning devotion, and helping others quietly behind the scenes.
His home was always open to family and friends.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Fellowship on 24 September 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield. His family extends heartfelt thanks for the prayers and love shown by so many.
Dave’s legacy of faith, humility, and kindness will live on in every life he touched.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Alan “Al” Carter, aged 68, passed away peacefully on 2 December 2024.
Al was a brother, brother-in-law, and friend whose warmth and humour brightened every room.
He worked as a driver and enjoyed photography, classic rock, and long chats over coffee.
He had a talent for making others laugh and feel at ease. Family was everything to him — and his pride in them showed in every story he told.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 9 December 2024 at 2 p.m. Family and friends are invited to share memories that celebrate his life and laughter.
Al’s generosity, wit, and easygoing nature will remain forever in our hearts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for my brother-in-law?
Include his full name, age, date of passing, family details, and short descriptions that reflect his character — how he made people laugh, supported others, or lived his life. Add service details and any preferred charities for donations.
How long should an obituary for a brother-in-law be?
Short printed obituaries are often 80–120 words, while fuller online or memorial versions are 150–300 words. Choose a length that fits the story you want to tell and where it will appear.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary is a written summary of his life and passing, while a eulogy or funeral speech is spoken at the service and focuses on memories and stories. Both complement each other beautifully.
Should I mention how my brother-in-law passed away?
That’s a personal decision. Some families include a brief mention, while others prefer to focus on his life and legacy. Gentle wording like “passed away peacefully” is often best.
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or personalise them with his name, qualities, or special memories. A few small details can make the obituary feel truly personal.
Where can I share or publish an obituary for my brother-in-law?
You can publish it in a local newspaper, through a funeral home, or online memorial platform. Many families also include it in the order of service or keep it as a printed keepsake beside a photo.
How can I write about my brother-in-law if our relationship was complex?
Focus on kindness and gratitude. Mention shared memories or qualities you respected. The aim is to write truthfully yet gently, honouring his place in your family’s story.
🕯️ 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.