Obituary Examples for a Son
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 son 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 Son
These short obituary samples for a son 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
Thomas “Tom” Miller, aged 32, passed away peacefully on 8 February 2024.
A beloved son, brother, and friend, Tom was known for his integrity, humour, and generosity. He worked as a paramedic, always ready to help others with calm and care.
He is survived by his parents, Alan and Marie, and sister, Hannah. A service of remembrance will be held at St Peter’s Church on 15 February 2024 at 11 a.m. Family flowers only, please. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to the British Red Cross.
His steady kindness and quiet courage will never be forgotten.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our wonderful son, Daniel “Danny” Roberts, passed away on 20 March 2024, aged 25.
Danny filled our lives with laughter, curiosity, and endless energy. He loved music, football, and spontaneous road trips with friends.
His kindness reached everyone he met — he never left without making someone smile.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Danny’s life at Willow Chapel on 27 March 2024 at noon. Please wear bright colours in his honour.
We will forever remember his warmth, his hugs, and his ability to find joy in the smallest things.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Michael Okafor, aged 28, went home to be with the Lord on 12 January 2024.
A devoted son, brother, and friend, Michael’s faith and optimism inspired those around him.
He served joyfully in his church choir and volunteered at the youth centre.
He is survived by his parents, Grace and Emmanuel, and two sisters. A home-going service will be held at New Life Church on 19 January 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield.
His voice, laughter, and unwavering faith will live on in all who knew him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
James “Jamie” Nguyen, aged 23, passed away unexpectedly on 4 July 2024.
Jamie was creative, kind, and endlessly curious about the world.
He studied graphic design and dreamed of opening his own studio one day. He loved cycling, sketching, and making people laugh.
A memorial gathering will be held at Riverside Hall on 11 July 2024 at 3 p.m. to celebrate his life. Friends are invited to bring stories, music, and memories to share.
Jamie’s bright spirit and gentle heart will remain forever in ours.
🌿 Writing an Obituary Can Feel Overwhelming — We Can Help
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Son
These longer obituary samples for a son 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
Andrew David Collins, aged 36, passed away peacefully on 9 April 2024, surrounded by his family.
A cherished son, brother, and uncle, Andrew lived his life with quiet purpose and compassion. Born in Manchester, he studied environmental science and dedicated his career to protecting local woodlands and wildlife.
He loved cycling, hiking, and Sunday dinners with family. His humour and steady support made him a constant source of comfort to everyone who knew him.
A service of thanksgiving will take place at St Mary’s Church on 16 April 2024 at 11 a.m. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to the Woodland Trust.
Andrew’s family will remember his love of nature, gentle wisdom, and deep care for others — a reminder that kindness leaves the longest legacy.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our beloved son, Matthew “Matt” Brown, passed away on 22 May 2024 at the age of 27.
Matt’s presence brought light and laughter into every room. He loved cooking for friends, playing guitar, and cheering on his football team no matter the score.
He had an easy charm that made people feel valued and seen. His generosity extended far beyond words — he gave time, encouragement, and a listening ear to anyone who needed it.
A celebration of Matt’s life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 29 May 2024 at noon, with refreshments to follow. In his memory, we ask that friends share a meal or a song — the things he loved most.
Matt will be forever remembered for his warmth, wit, and kindness that reached everyone around him.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Samuel “Sam” Adeyemi, aged 31, went to be with the Lord on 10 August 2024.
A devoted son, brother, and mentor, Sam touched countless lives with his faith and compassion. He led youth outreach programs at Grace Chapel and always believed in second chances.
He enjoyed football, gospel music, and family barbecues filled with laughter. His parents, Esther and Paul, will remember his daily calls to check in — his way of saying, “I love you.”
A home-going service will be held at Grace Chapel on 17 August 2024 at 11 a.m. The family welcomes prayers, songs, and messages of remembrance.
Sam’s legacy is one of faith in action — a life lived for others, marked by generosity, courage, and joy.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Oliver “Ollie” Clarke, aged 29, passed away unexpectedly on 30 November 2024.
Ollie was a son, brother, and friend who brought warmth and creativity to every part of his life. He worked as a photographer, capturing moments of beauty in everyday places.
He loved travel, sunsets, and spontaneous laughter with his friends. He found meaning in connecting people, often saying, “Life’s better when it’s shared.”
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 7 December 2024 at 2 p.m. Friends are invited to bring a printed photo or story to share in his memory.
Ollie’s light continues to shine through his work, his friends, and the love of his family who will carry him in their hearts always.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for my son?
Include his full name, age, date of passing, family members, and details that reflect who he was — his character, interests, or achievements. You can also mention where he lived, his work or studies, and any service information. Choose details that feel true to his spirit and your family’s memories.
How long should an obituary for a son be?
Newspaper notices are often 80–120 words, while online obituaries or printed tributes are usually 150–300 words. There’s no strict rule — it should simply reflect what feels meaningful to share about his life, personality, and relationships.
What’s the difference between an obituary and a eulogy or funeral speech?
An obituary is a written announcement about his life and passing, often including service details. A eulogy or funeral speech is spoken and usually more personal, with stories and reflections. Many families use both to honour his memory in different ways.
Should I mention how my son passed away?
It’s entirely your choice. Some parents include it to acknowledge illness or raise awareness, while others prefer privacy. If you choose to mention it, keep it brief and respectful — for example, “passed away peacefully surrounded by family.”
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you’re welcome to use them directly or adapt them with your son’s name, passions, and service details. Adding small personal touches — a favourite pastime or saying — can make the obituary feel uniquely his.
Where can I publish or share an obituary for my son?
You can publish it in a local newspaper, through a funeral home, or on an online memorial page. Many families also include it in an order of service or frame it beside a photo and dates as a lasting keepsake.
How can I write when emotions are overwhelming?
Start with simple facts, then add a few short sentences about what made him special. Write as though you’re telling a friend about him. If it feels too hard, take breaks or ask someone to help shape your words — kindness and honesty matter 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.