The copy-and-paste template
Replace the bracketed prompts, and remove anything that does not fit. Share only information the family has agreed to make public.
[Full name], [age], of [city], died on [date]. [Name] served in [verified branch] from [verified service years]. [Optional verified rank, assignments, or honors]. Outside military service, [name] enjoyed [interests] and was known for [specific qualities or memories]. [Family details]. [Confirmed memorial arrangements]. [Military honors only if confirmed with the provider].
Word is editable; PDF is a printable reference, not a fillable form. The download includes fictional sample wording.
Verify the service details
Check spelling and capitalization for the branch, rank, and unit. Distinguish military service from later civilian employment. If the family does not have the records, a simpler statement about service is better than an unverified list.
Include awards only when their names and attribution are confirmed. The template deliberately does not supply a rank, describe someone as a combat veteran, or presume that military honors will take place.
Mention honors only after arrangements are confirmed
Funeral honors are an arrangement to verify with the provider; this page does not determine eligibility or availability. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs explains the process for requesting military funeral honors.
If arrangements are pending, you can say that memorial information will be shared later. Avoid publishing dates, cemetery details, or promised ceremonies before the family and provider have confirmed them.
Official resource: VA guidance on requesting military funeral honors. Verify current arrangements with the provider.
Illustrations, not real obituaries
Obituary examples
Fictional example
A verified-service style example
Arthur Lane, 88, of Richmond, died on January 12, 2025. Arthur served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1960. He later worked as an electrician and enjoyed teaching his neighbors how to make small repairs safely. Arthur loved sailing, crossword puzzles, and Sunday calls with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Helen, and his daughter, Beth. His family will share memorial arrangements when they are confirmed.
Why it works: The fictional service dates illustrate placement; a real obituary must use verified details.
Fictional example
A short tribute without a service résumé
Morgan Price, 79, of Boise, died on March 5, 2025. A U.S. Army veteran and a dedicated community volunteer, Morgan valued friendship, practical kindness, and time outdoors. Morgan is survived by a partner, Drew, and a sister, Avery. The family will remember Morgan privately.
Why it works: A brief service reference leaves room for the rest of the person’s life.
Questions about this template
Should I list every military award?
No. Include verified details that are meaningful to the family. A concise reference to service is also appropriate.
Does this template arrange military funeral honors?
No. It is a writing resource only. Confirm eligibility and arrangements with the relevant provider or official veterans’ resource.
Can I leave out the rank?
Yes. Do not guess or include a rank that has not been verified.