Obituary Examples for a Mother
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 mother 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 Mother
These short obituary samples for a mother 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
Mary Thompson, aged 74, passed away peacefully on 8 April 2024, surrounded by her family.
A devoted wife to John and loving mother of Sarah and James, she was known for her kindness and steady strength.
Mary spent many years working in education and found joy in helping others learn.
She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, extended family, and friends.
A service of thanksgiving will be held at St Mark’s Church on 15 April 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the British Heart Foundation in her memory.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our beloved mother, Anne Carter, passed away peacefully on 2 March 2024 at the age of 82.
Anne’s warmth, laughter, and unconditional love filled our lives with joy.
She was happiest in her garden, sharing stories over tea, or cheering her grandchildren on from the sidelines.
Her patience and humour shaped us into who we are today. We’re grateful for every memory and moment shared.
Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Anne’s life at Oakwood Chapel on 10 March 2024, followed by a small gathering at her home.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Margaret “Maggie” Lewis, 68, went to be with the Lord on 21 January 2024.
A faithful mother, grandmother, and friend, Maggie’s spirit was rooted in grace and compassion.
Her days were filled with prayer, song, and the joy of serving her church community.
She taught her children to live with kindness and faith, and her legacy continues in their hearts.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Baptist Church on 29 January 2024 at 11 a.m.
The family welcomes prayers and loving memories in celebration of her life.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
Elaine Parker, aged 59, passed away unexpectedly on 15 June 2024.
She was a proud mother, a loyal friend, and the heart of every gathering.
Elaine approached life with curiosity and courage, inspiring others through her creativity and openness.
Her legacy lives on in her children, Daniel and Lucy, and in the many lives she touched.
A memorial gathering will be held on 22 June 2024 at Riverside Hall to share stories and music that capture her spirit. Her laughter, wisdom, and love will never be forgotten.
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Mother
These longer obituary samples for a mother offer more space to share her story — capturing her character, milestones, and the love she brought to those around her.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 1 – Traditional Full Version
Elizabeth Jane Harris, aged 83, passed away peacefully on 3 February 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
A devoted wife to Michael for 58 years and cherished mother of David, Laura, and Claire,
Elizabeth was known for her strength, warmth, and unwavering care for others.
Born in Bath, she spent her career as a nurse, touching countless lives with her compassion and professionalism.
Outside of work, she enjoyed gardening, reading, and hosting Sunday lunches filled with laughter.
Elizabeth’s quiet kindness and love of family were the heart of her home. She will be deeply missed by her husband, children, six grandchildren, and many friends.
A service of thanksgiving will take place at St. Andrew’s Church on 10 February 2024 at 11 a.m.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family
Our beautiful mother, Patricia Ann Miller, passed away peacefully on 27 March 2024 at the age of 79.
She was our constant guide — a source of comfort, humour, and unconditional love.
Patricia grew up in Cornwall, where she met our father, John, and together they built a home filled with music, good food, and laughter.
She loved baking, seaside walks, and spending time with her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy.
Her kindness extended beyond our family, always lending a hand or a listening ear to friends and neighbours.
We’ll remember her as the steady heart of our family, whose love and encouragement shaped who we are today.
A celebration of her life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 3 April 2024 at noon, followed by light refreshments.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Margaret Louise “Meg” Johnson, 70, went home to be with her Lord on 6 September 2024.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and pillar of her church community, she lived a life rooted in faith and service.
Meg volunteered for over two decades at St. Luke’s Parish Centre, organising meals, visits, and prayer groups for those in need.
Her calm presence and generous heart touched everyone she met.
At home, she found joy in singing hymns, tending her roses, and spending quiet evenings with her family.
She is survived by her children, Emma and Paul, and four adoring grandchildren.
Her example of faith and kindness will continue to guide them.
A service of celebration will be held at St. Luke’s Church on 14 September 2024 at 10:30 a.m., followed by a private burial.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Jennifer Marie Collins, aged 66, passed away unexpectedly on 9 November 2024.
A loving mother, grandmother, and friend, Jennifer lived her life with creativity and courage.
After raising her family, she pursued her dream of becoming an artist, holding exhibitions that captured the beauty of everyday moments.
She believed in living fully — travelling, learning, and encouraging others to follow their passions.
Her children, Daniel and Rebecca, were her proudest achievement, and her grandchildren filled her later years with laughter.
Jennifer’s compassion, curiosity, and strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
She will be remembered not only for her art but for the joy she brought into the world.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow View Hall on 18 November 2024 at 2 p.m., with a reception to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for my mother?
A clear structure helps: full name, age, date/place of passing, close family (spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings), where she lived, work or passions, and a few lines on her character or values. Add service details (time, place) and any memorial preferences (flowers or donations). You don’t have to say everything — choose what feels true and kind.
How long should an obituary be?
Newspaper notices are often 60–120 words, while online obituaries commonly run 150–300+ words — especially when you include key achievements, community roles, or family tributes. Focus less on a target number and more on what matters most: how you want your mother to be remembered and where the obituary will appear.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary is a written announcement that shares essential life details and service information. A eulogy or funeral speech is delivered aloud and usually includes more stories and personal reflections. Many families use both: the obituary to inform and honour, and a spoken tribute to celebrate her life more fully.
Should I include the cause of death?
It’s your choice. Some families prefer privacy; others share the cause to acknowledge illness or raise awareness. If you include it, keep wording brief and respectful (for example, “passed away peacefully after a long illness”). There’s no right or wrong — choose what feels comfortable for your family.
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or personalise with your mother’s name, places, favourite interests, and service details. Small touches — a pastime, a phrase she said, a place she loved — make the obituary feel genuine and uniquely hers.
Where should I publish or share the obituary?
Common options include a local or national newspaper, a funeral home website, an online memorial page, and social media for wider family and friends. You can also include it in an order of service or frame a printed copy beside a photo and dates as a keepsake.
How do I write when relationships were complicated?
Stay kind and factual. Focus on life milestones, interests, and the respect you wish to convey. You don’t have to include everything. An obituary offers remembrance and closure — choose details that bring dignity and peace to your family.
🕯️ 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.