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 Focussed
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?
When writing an obituary for your mother, include her full name, age, and date of passing. You can add details about where she lived, her work, passions, family members, and what she’ll be remembered for. A few heartfelt lines about her character or values make the tribute feel personal and true. End with funeral or memorial service details if you wish.
How long should an obituary for a mother be?
Short printed notices are often 60–120 words, while online obituaries for mothers can range from 150–300 words or more. Focus less on length and more on meaning — how you’d like your mother to be remembered, and where the obituary will appear. The best obituaries balance warmth, clarity, and family detail.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary for a mother is a written announcement — usually shared online or in print — to inform others of her passing and highlight her life. A eulogy or funeral speech is spoken during the service and focuses more on stories and memories. Many families use both: the obituary to honour, the speech to celebrate.
Should I include the cause of death in my mother’s obituary?
It’s completely your choice. Some families choose to share the cause of death in an obituary for a mother — especially to acknowledge illness or raise awareness — while others prefer privacy. If you do include it, keep wording brief and respectful (for example, “passed away peacefully after a long illness”).
Can I use these obituary examples for a mother as they are?
Yes — you can use these obituary examples for a mother directly or personalise them with your mother’s name, hometown, favourite pastimes, and service details. Small, specific touches — a phrase she said often or something she loved — make the obituary feel genuine and unique.
Where should I publish or share an obituary for my mother?
You can publish an obituary for your mother in a local or national newspaper, on a funeral home website, or on an online memorial page. Many families also share it on social media or include a printed version in the order of service as a keepsake.
How do I write an obituary for my mother when relationships were complicated?
It’s okay to keep things simple and kind. Focus on her life milestones, interests, and the respect you wish to express. An obituary for a mother can be factual yet warm — offering closure and dignity, even when the relationship was complex.
🕯️ 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 — giving you space to grieve, and be with those who matter most.
You can even start with our free 150-word Tribute Opening.