Obituary Examples for a Mother-in-Law
Short and longer obituary samples helping you write with warmth and clarity.
Writing an obituary for a mother-in-law can carry deep meaning — a way to honour the woman who helped shape your family. Whether she offered quiet strength, heartfelt advice, or laughter that brightened every gathering, this is your chance to express gratitude for her life and influence.
These obituary examples for a mother-in-law include short and longer samples to help you write with sincerity, grace, and love, capturing her memory in words that feel genuine and lasting.
Short Obituary Examples for a Mother-in-Law
These short obituary samples for a mother-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
Margaret “Maggie” Carter, aged 78, passed away peacefully on 10 February 2024.
A devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, and friend, Maggie will be remembered for her kindness, humour, and strength. She spent her career as a teacher, encouraging others to learn and grow.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, 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 Macmillan Cancer Support.
Maggie’s warmth, laughter, and love for family will never be forgotten.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our dear mother-in-law, Helen “Nell” Thompson, passed away on 5 May 2024, aged 74.
Nell welcomed everyone as family — generous with her time, her cooking, and her advice.
She loved gardening, storytelling, and spending weekends surrounded by those she loved most.
A celebration of Nell’s life will be held at Oakwood Chapel on 12 May 2024 at noon.
Please wear cheerful colours to reflect her joyful spirit.
We’ll remember her for her strength, her humour, and the love she gave so freely.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Mary “Grace” Adeyemi, aged 80, went home to be with the Lord on 16 March 2024.
A cherished wife, mother, and mother-in-law, Grace lived a life of faith, service, and compassion.
She was active in her church community, leading women’s fellowship and mentoring younger families.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Chapel on 23 March 2024 at 10 a.m.
Grace’s faith, generosity, and devotion will continue to shine through the family she leaves behind.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
Patricia “Pat” Evans, aged 77, passed away peacefully on 21 June 2024.
Pat was a mother, mother-in-law, and friend who lived with optimism and humour. She loved painting, travel, and lively conversations over coffee.
She approached life with curiosity and compassion and inspired others to do the same.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 28 June 2024 at 3 p.m.
Pat’s laughter, warmth, and creativity will be remembered with love.
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Mother-in-Law
These longer obituary samples for a mother-in-law 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
Dorothy “Dot” Hughes, aged 82, passed away peacefully on 7 January 2024, surrounded by family.
A loving wife, mother, and mother-in-law, Dot was admired for her warmth, generosity, and resilience. Born in Liverpool, she worked as a nurse and devoted her life to caring for others.
She enjoyed music, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy.
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.
Dot’s love, kindness, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our beloved mother-in-law, Anne “Annie” Roberts, passed away on 10 April 2024, aged 76.
Anne had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome. She loved Sunday lunches, birthdays, and long talks that ended in laughter. Her generosity, honesty, and humour will never be forgotten.
She worked for many years in healthcare, where her compassion touched countless lives.
A celebration of Anne’s life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 17 April 2024 at noon. Family and friends are encouraged to share stories and photos that capture her warmth and wisdom.
Anne’s love and laughter will always remain part of our family’s story.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Esther “Essie” Okoro, aged 81, went to be with the Lord on 17 September 2024.
A devoted wife, mother, and mother-in-law, Esther lived a life of grace and service. She served faithfully at Grace Church, organising events, teaching Sunday school, and praying for others daily.
She loved hymns, family gatherings, and offering kind words when they were needed most.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Church on 24 September 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield. Her family thanks all for their prayers and support.
Esther’s faith and compassion continue to inspire the generations she leaves behind.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Barbara “Babs” Clarke, aged 78, passed away peacefully on 2 December 2024.
Babs was a mother, mother-in-law, and friend whose laughter and generosity filled every room.
She worked as an accountant and loved books, music, and days spent by the sea.
She believed that kindness was life’s truest legacy.
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 and celebrate her remarkable life.
Babs’s humour, warmth, and love for family will remain with us always.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for my mother-in-law?
Include her full name, age, date of passing, and family details. You can also share qualities that made her special — her kindness, humour, or strength — and include service details or preferred charities for donations.
How long should an obituary for a mother-in-law be?
Short printed obituaries are usually 80–120 words, while fuller online or memorial tributes range from 150–300 words. Choose what best fits her story and your message.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary is a written record of her life and passing, while a eulogy or funeral speech is spoken at the service. Both complement each other beautifully.
Should I mention how my mother-in-law passed away?
That’s a personal choice. Some families include a brief mention, while others focus on celebrating her life. Gentle wording such as “passed away peacefully” is often used.
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or personalise them with her name, hobbies, or treasured memories. Small details make the obituary feel authentic and heartfelt.
Where can I publish or share an obituary for my mother-in-law?
You can publish it in a local newspaper, through a funeral home, or on an online memorial page. Many families also include it in the order of service or frame it beside a photo and dates.
How can I write about my mother-in-law if our relationship was complicated?
Focus on kindness and gratitude — perhaps mentioning shared moments or qualities you respected. It’s possible to be honest and gentle at the same time, keeping the tone thoughtful and respectful.
🕯️ 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.