Obituary Examples for a Neighbour
Short and longer obituary samples helping you write with warmth and clarity.
Writing an obituary for a neighbour is a touching way to honour someone who was part of your daily life — a friendly face, a helping hand, or a comforting presence across the fence. Whether you’ve shared years of chats, kindness, and cups of tea, or simply admired their spirit, these examples can help you express your gratitude and memories with sincerity.
Here are short and longer obituary samples written to celebrate a neighbour’s life, friendship, and place in the community.
Short Obituary Examples for a Neighbour
These short obituary samples for a neighbour 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
James “Jim” Roberts, aged 74, passed away peacefully on 10 February 2024.
Jim was a kind neighbour and friend to many in our community. Always willing to lend a hand, share advice, or look out for others, he made the street feel like home.
A service of remembrance 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.
Jim’s warmth, humour, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our dear neighbour and friend, Emma “Em” Hughes, passed away on 6 May 2024, aged 68.
Emma was the heart of our street — always smiling, baking for others, and asking how everyone was doing.
Her kindness made a real difference in our lives.
A celebration of Emma’s life will be held at Oakwood Chapel on 13 May 2024 at noon. Please wear something bright to honour her cheerful spirit.
Her warmth, care, and laughter will remain part of our neighbourhood forever.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Blessing Adeyemi, aged 70, went home to be with the Lord on 16 March 2024.
A beloved neighbour and friend, Blessing lived a life of service and faith. Her door was always open, her words always encouraging.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Chapel on 23 March 2024 at 10 a.m.
Her faith, kindness, and hospitality will be remembered by all who knew her.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
Hannah Clarke, aged 63, passed away peacefully on 21 June 2024.
Hannah was a neighbour who became a dear friend. She loved gardening, good conversation, and the quiet joy of community.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 28 June 2024 at 3 p.m.
Hannah’s kindness, humour, and friendship will stay with us always.
🌿 Writing an Obituary Can Feel Overwhelming — We Can Help
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Neighbour
These longer obituary samples for a neighbour offer more space to share their story — capturing their character, milestones, and the dedication they brought to the community.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 1 – Traditional Full Version
Michael “Mike” Carter, aged 76, passed away peacefully on 7 January 2024, surrounded by family.
Mike was a loyal neighbour and friend for over 30 years.
Known for his humour, generosity, and willingness to help, he made our community stronger and kinder.
He loved tending to his garden, chatting with neighbours over the fence, and sharing stories from his time in the navy.
A service of remembrance 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 Cancer Research UK.
Mike’s friendship, laughter, and community spirit will never be forgotten.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our beloved neighbour and friend, Laura “Lau” Jenkins, passed away on 10 April 2024, aged 66.
Laura was the kind of neighbour everyone hopes for — thoughtful, dependable, and always ready to help.
Whether it was bringing in parcels, sharing recipes, or watching pets, she did it with joy.
She loved gardening, baking, and chatting on her front porch with friends.
A celebration of Laura’s life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 17 April 2024 at noon. Family and neighbours are invited to share stories that capture her kindness and humour.
Laura’s warmth and generosity made our community a better place for everyone.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Joseph “Joe” Okoro, aged 71, went to be with the Lord on 17 September 2024.
A devoted husband, father, and neighbour, Joe was known for his faith, strength, and selflessness.
He often visited elderly neighbours, fixing things around their homes and sharing words of encouragement.
He loved singing in church, tending his garden, and offering kindness without ever expecting anything in return.
A home-going service will be held at New Life Church on 24 September 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield.
Joe’s humility, generosity, and faith will continue to inspire our community.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Isabella “Izzy” Turner, aged 69, passed away peacefully on 2 December 2024.
Izzy was a neighbour and friend who made every day brighter.
She loved plants, painting, and afternoon chats on the doorstep that always ended in laughter.
She cared about people — remembering birthdays, offering support during hard times, and treating everyone like family.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 9 December 2024 at 2 p.m. Family, friends, and neighbours are invited to share stories that celebrate her life.
Izzy’s warmth, friendship, and community spirit will remain in our hearts forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write an obituary for a neighbour?
Yes — it’s a thoughtful way to honour someone who meant a lot to your local community. Sharing memories or kind words can bring comfort to their family and friends.
What should I include in an obituary for a neighbour?
Include their full name, age, and date of passing, along with qualities that made them special. Mention their kindness, community involvement, or ways they helped others locally.
Who can publish or share an obituary for a neighbour?
Close friends, neighbours, or community groups can publish or contribute to an obituary. It can be shared in local newsletters, online memorials, or through social media.
How long should an obituary for a neighbour be?
Short printed notices are often 80–120 words, while fuller online or community tributes can range from 150–300 words. Choose what best fits their story and role in the community.
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or personalise them with your neighbour’s name, habits, or details that reflect your connection. A few small touches make it feel heartfelt and genuine.
Should I mention how my neighbour passed away?
That’s entirely up to you. Some people prefer a simple phrase like “passed away peacefully,” while others focus more on celebrating their neighbour’s life and spirit.
How can I make an obituary for a neighbour feel personal?
Include small, true-to-life details — the morning greetings, the kindness they showed, or community moments they helped create. These memories make the tribute warm and real.
🕯️ 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.