A Formal Template For Crafting Obituary Notices

Fill-in-the-blank obituary templates offer a convenient way to craft meaningful tributes while ensuring consistency and professionalism. By providing pre-formatted sections and prompts, these templates streamline the often-emotional process of writing an obituary. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential elements of a professional fill-in-the-blank obituary template and explore how to create such a template using WordPress.

Template Structure

A well-structured obituary template should include the following key sections:

Headline: The headline should prominently display the deceased person’s name, age, and date of passing. Consider using a serif font like Times New Roman or Georgia for a classic and formal appearance.

Obituary Body: This section provides the core details of the deceased person’s life. It typically includes information about their birth, family, education, career, hobbies, and any significant accomplishments. Use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon or overly flowery phrases.

Survivors: List the immediate family members and close friends who survive the deceased. Include their names and relationships.

Services: Detail the funeral arrangements, including the date, time, location, and any visitation or memorial services.

Donations: If desired, include information about any memorial donations or charitable organizations that the deceased supported.

Design Considerations

To create a professional and trustworthy obituary template, pay close attention to the following design elements:

Typography: Choose fonts that are easy to read and convey a sense of respect. Serif fonts like Times New Roman or Georgia are often preferred for their classic and formal appearance. Avoid using excessive fonts or font sizes that can clutter the template.

Layout: Opt for a clean and uncluttered layout that is easy to navigate. Use ample white space to improve readability and create a sense of balance. Consider using a grid-based system to ensure consistent spacing and alignment.

Color Scheme: Select a color scheme that is both tasteful and appropriate for the occasion. Black and white are classic choices that convey a sense of solemnity. If you prefer to add color, use muted tones that complement the overall design.

Imagery: While images are not strictly necessary for a fill-in-the-blank obituary template, they can add a personal touch. If you decide to include an image, choose a high-quality photo that is relevant to the deceased person’s life.

Branding: If you are creating multiple obituary templates for a specific organization or funeral home, consider incorporating branding elements such as a logo or color scheme. This can help establish a consistent and professional look.

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Creating the Template in WordPress

To create a fill-in-the-blank obituary template in WordPress, you can use a page builder plugin or custom code. Here’s a general outline of the steps involved:

1. Choose a Page Builder: Select a page builder plugin that offers flexibility and customization options. Popular choices include Elementor, Beaver Builder, and Divi.
2. Create a New Page: Create a new page in WordPress and give it a descriptive title.
3. Design the Template: Use the page builder’s drag-and-drop interface to create the various sections of the template, such as the headline, obituary body, survivors, services, and donations.
4. Add Placeholders: Insert placeholders for the text that will be filled in by users. You can use shortcodes or custom fields to create dynamic placeholders.
5. Customize the Design: Adjust the typography, layout, color scheme, and imagery to match your desired aesthetic.
6. Save and Publish: Once you are satisfied with the design, save and publish the page. You can then use the page as a template for creating individual obituaries.

Additional Tips

Proofread Carefully: Before publishing the template, carefully proofread it for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.

Consider Accessibility: Ensure that the template is accessible to people with disabilities by following web accessibility guidelines.

Test the Template: Test the template to ensure that it functions properly and provides a user-friendly experience.

By following these guidelines and leveraging the power of WordPress, you can create professional and meaningful fill-in-the-blank obituary templates that honor the lives of loved ones.