Obituary Examples for a Grandfather
Short and longer obituary samples helping you write with warmth and clarity.
Writing an obituary for a grandfather is a chance to honour a man who shaped lives with wisdom, kindness, and strength. These obituary examples for a grandfather offer gentle guidance — through short and longer samples that reflect the love and lessons he shared.
Each example is written with care to help you express his story with pride and sincerity. Whether you’re preparing a short printed notice or a fuller written tribute, these samples can help you find words that feel true to him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 1 – Traditional and Factual
Edward James Miller, aged 84, passed away peacefully on 12 February 2024.
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Edward was known for his steady wisdom and generosity. He worked as a carpenter for more than 40 years and found great joy in creating and fixing things for family and neighbours alike.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret, three children, and five grandchildren. A service of thanksgiving will be held at St Mary’s Church on 19 February 2024 at 11 a.m. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Edward’s quiet humour, patience, and kindness will remain in our hearts forever.
Short Obituary Examples for a Grandfather
These short obituary samples for a grandfather 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 2 – Personal and Warm
Our dear grandfather, George William Thompson, passed away on 5 May 2024, aged 89.
Grandad George had a laugh that could light up a room and a story for every occasion.
He loved gardening, chess, and Sunday dinners with family. He taught us the value of hard work, honesty, and kindness.
A celebration of George’s life will be held at Oakwood Chapel on 12 May 2024 at noon. Friends and family are welcome to share memories and photographs.
We’ll miss his jokes, his advice, and the warmth he brought to every gathering. His love and lessons will stay with us always.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Patrick “Pat” Osei, aged 82, went home to be with the Lord on 16 March 2024.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Patrick lived a life of faith, service, and love. He was a church elder who shared his wisdom with humility and joy.
He enjoyed gospel music, morning prayers, and spending time with his grandchildren. A home-going service will be held at Grace Chapel on 23 March 2024 at 10 a.m.
Patrick’s faith and kindness touched many lives — his memory will continue to inspire his family and church community.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
Arthur “Art” Collins, aged 76, passed away peacefully on 21 June 2024.
Arthur was a husband, father, and grandfather who embraced life with curiosity and gratitude. He worked as an engineer, loved photography, and never stopped learning.
He was happiest when surrounded by family, telling stories from his travels or helping with homework. A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 28 June 2024 at 3 p.m.
Arthur’s kindness, humour, and thoughtful nature will always be remembered by those who loved him.
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Grandfather
These longer obituary samples for a grandfather 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
William “Bill” Andrews, aged 87, passed away peacefully on 7 January 2024, surrounded by his family.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bill lived his life with honesty, humility, and love. Born in Nottingham, he worked as a schoolteacher and inspired generations of students with his patience and humour.
He loved gardening, crossword puzzles, and spending time with his grandchildren, who adored his stories and gentle wisdom.
A service of thanksgiving will take place at St Peter’s Church on 14 January 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Rosewood Cemetery. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society.
Bill’s laughter, kindness, and enduring love for his family will remain a source of comfort and pride to all who knew him.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our beloved grandfather, Henry “Harry” Morgan, passed away on 25 April 2024, aged 85.
Harry was a man of warmth, humour, and resilience. He loved fishing, storytelling, and family gatherings that stretched long into the evening. His presence brought calm and connection to every generation.
He worked as a postman for over forty years and was loved in his community for his cheerfulness and reliability.
A celebration of Harry’s life will be held at Oakwood Chapel on 2 May 2024 at noon, followed by refreshments. Family and friends are encouraged to bring stories or photos to share.
Harry’s family will forever remember his laughter, steady advice, and unwavering love — the heart of every family gathering.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Joseph “Joe” Adeyemi, aged 80, went to be with the Lord on 17 August 2024.
A cherished husband, father, and grandfather, Joe was known for his faith, compassion, and humility. He served as a deacon at Grace Fellowship Church for many years and was deeply loved by his congregation.
He enjoyed singing hymns, visiting friends, and sharing stories from his youth that reminded others of life’s blessings. His home was always open — a place of prayer, laughter, and comfort.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Fellowship Church on 24 August 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield. His family extends their gratitude for the love and prayers shown by so many.
Joe’s life was a reflection of faith in action — a legacy of love, service, and grace.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Albert “Bert” Clarke, aged 83, passed away peacefully on 3 December 2024.
Bert was a husband, father, grandfather, and friend who found joy in life’s simple moments — a good cup of tea, a shared laugh, and time spent with family.
He worked as a mechanic and was happiest in his workshop, fixing things and telling stories from his younger days. He believed in hard work, kindness, and finding purpose in helping others.
A memorial service will be held at The Old Hall on 10 December 2024 at 2 p.m. Family and friends are invited to bring memories, photos, and stories to share.
Bert’s humour, wisdom, and gentle heart will live on in his children and grandchildren — a lasting reminder of a life well lived.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for my grandfather?
Include his full name, age, date of passing, family members, and details that reflect his life — his career, values, and what made him special as a grandfather. You can also add service details and any preferred charities for donations.
How long should an obituary for a grandfather be?
Short newspaper notices are often 80–120 words, while online or printed tributes are typically 150–300 words. Focus on what best represents his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary is a written notice of his life and passing, often including service details. A eulogy or funeral speech is spoken and usually includes personal stories, reflections, and emotion. Both complement each other beautifully.
Should I mention how my grandfather passed away?
That’s entirely your choice. Some families prefer to share it briefly, while others choose privacy. If you include it, keep it gentle — for example, “passed away peacefully surrounded by family.”
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or adapt them with his name, hobbies, or special memories. Personalising them helps make the tribute uniquely his.
Where can I publish or share an obituary for my grandfather?
You can publish it in a local newspaper, through a funeral home, or on an online memorial platform. Many families also include it in the order of service or print it as a keepsake beside a photo and dates.
How can I start writing when emotions feel too strong?
Begin with the basics — his name, age, and date of passing — then add a few lines about what made him special. Take breaks, and write in short sessions if needed. It’s the love behind the words that matters most.
🕯️ 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.