6 Christian Obituary Templates and Examples
Writing an obituary for a religious person offers an opportunity to honor not only their life but also their faith, highlighting the values, beliefs, and spiritual legacy they leave behind. If you’ve never written an obituary before, it’s not as hard as it may seem. This article offers you guidance on what to include in a religious obituary and examples on what one looks like.
What should I include in a Christian obituary?
In a Christian obituary, you may want to include traditional elements as well as faith-centered details that reflect the deceased’s beliefs and devotion. Reading through Catholic and Christian obituary examples is a great way to see what you’d like to include and exclude from the obituary. Here’s a guide to help:
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Opening statement and personal details: Begin with the full name, age, and date of passing. A faith-centered phrase like “entered into the presence of the Lord” can convey the person's belief in eternal life.
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Acknowledgment of faith: Mention their Christian faith early on if it was central to their life. You could say something like, “a devoted follower of Christ,” or “faithful servant of the Lord,” to reflect their commitment to their beliefs.
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Brief life overview: Provide key details of their life, such as birthplace, family background, education, and career, while keeping the focus on how their faith influenced these areas. For instance, note if they were involved in church activities, Bible study groups, or charitable work inspired by their faith.
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Family and loved ones: List close surviving family members, especially those who shared and supported their faith journey. Mentioning family who preceded them in death with language like “reunited with [family member] in Heaven” can offer a comforting, faith-based perspective.
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Faith and church involvement: Highlight their role in the church community, such as volunteer work, teaching Sunday School, or participation in mission trips. Share specific details if they had a favorite hymn, scripture, or ministry they were passionate about.
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Message of comfort or hope: Include a Bible verse or phrase of hope, like “We rejoice in the promise of eternal life,” or “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” This offers encouragement and reassurance for Christian readers.
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Funeral or memorial service details: If a service will be held at a church, list the time, date, and place, including any viewing or visitation details. For a Christian service, you might note if there will be scripture readings, hymns, or a celebration of life following.
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Invitation for donations: In lieu of flowers, consider suggesting memorial donations to a church, Christian organization, or charity that was important to them. This can honor their faith by supporting a cause they valued.
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Concluding statement: End with a phrase such as “She is now at peace in the arms of her Savior,” or “In His light, we find comfort.” This can serve as a final, faith-centered farewell.
A Christian obituary can offer a sense of peace, underscoring the hope and promises of faith that comfort loved ones during this time.
Christian obituary examples and templates
These free Christian obituary templates give you an overview of what a standard religious obituary can look like. Paying attention to the format and structure of the obituaries can give you an idea as to what to include in yours, when to include certain information and what the overall obituary contains. These obituaries can also be altered to fit your specific needs. For example, if your loved one was Catholic and you want a more Catholic-focused obituary template, consider introducing more content related to their faith and what Catholicism meant to them during their life.
Christian obituary template and example
Christian obituary templates are focused around the relevant Christian aspects of one’s life. Often times they’ll include favorite passages, a description of the loved one’s involvement in the church, or other notable religious achievements. If a loved one was part of and passionate about a local Christian community other than a church, including that in the Christian obituary is a recommended.
Christian obituary template
Use this template((full_name)) went home to Jesus on ((date_of_death)) at age ((age)).
((first_name)) was born to [parents’ names] on ((date_of_birth)) in [place of birth]. As a child, [description of childhood activities].
((first_name)) met ((possessive_pronoun)) [husband/wife], [spouse name] in [year they met] at [place they met]. They married [when married] and went on to have [number of children] children, [list of children’s names]. [Any major moves]
In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, [first name] also loved [favorite activities]. Throughout ((possessive_pronoun)) entire life, ((subject_pronoun)) held an unwavering faith in God, which ((subject_pronoun)) shared with those who surrounded ((object_pronoun)).
((first_name)) joins [list of family members who have already passed] in Heaven. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) is survived by [list of family members who are still alive].
[Psalm]
Christian obituary example
Deborah “Debbie” Anne Sanders went home to Jesus on July 7, 2018 at age 72.
Debbie was born to Adam and Mary Cohen on January 2, 1946 in Port Wing, Wisconsin. As a child, she excelled in school and ran track on her school’s varsity team.
Debbie met her husband, Keith Sanders in 1963 at a church dance. They married two years later on June 23, 1965 and went on to have five children, Anne, Christina, Max, Jane and Tommy. In 1972, they moved their family to Madison, Wisconsin.
In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, Debbie also loved working in her garden, staying actively involved in the PTA, and holding various volunteer roles at High Point Church. Throughout her entire life, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with those who surrounded her.
Debbie joins her parents, Adam and Mary, and her brother, David, in Heaven. She is survived by her husband, Keith, her sisters, Theresa and Catherine, her children, Anne (Jack), Christina, Max (Amanda), Jane (Bill) and Tommy (Amber), and her grandchildren, Suzie, Max Jr. and Michael.
Psalm 91:11
“For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.”
Exodus 23:20
“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.”
Christian obituary template and example for a mother with cancer
This template would be well-suited for the family of someone like Mimi Hollis—a devoted Christian mother who prioritized faith, family, and sharing God's love. It would be particularly fitting for a woman who was active in church ministries, deeply involved in service organizations like Loaves & Fishes, and passionate about scripture and evangelism.
Christian obituary template for a mother with cancer
Use this templateOur beloved [mother/father/sister/brother] ((full_name)) entered into God’s Kingdom on ((date_of_death)) after a short battle with [cause of death].
((first_name)) was born to [parents’ names] on ((date_of_birth)) in [place of birth]. When ((first_name)) was younger, ((possessive_pronoun)) favorite activities were [list of activities]. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) attended [school name] and graduated with a degree in [subject]. After graduating, ((subject_pronoun)) moved to [location] and pursued a career in [subject].
In [year], ((first_name)) met [spouse’s first name], a match truly made in heaven. ((first_name)) & [spouse’s first name] went on to have [number] children, [list names]. ((first_name)) was a loyal servant to God, first and foremost. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) loved the church and loved sharing the love and warmth of our savior, Jesus Christ, with as many people as possible. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) was a part of [community organization] and an avid member of [religious organization].
((first_name)) joins [list of family members who have already passed] in Heaven. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) is survived by many loving family members, including [list family members].
[Psalm or favorite verse]
Christian obituary example for a mother with cancer
Our beloved mother Mimi Hollis entered into God’s Kingdom on October 1st after a short battle with breast cancer.
Mimi was born to Geraldine and Duncan Hollis on March 17th, 1945 in Tulsa, OK. When Mimi was younger, her favorite activities were singing, choir, band, and theater. She attended St. Mary’s and graduated with a degree in Theology. After graduating, she moved to Columbus and pursued a career in Sales.
In 1968, Mimi met Eddison, a match truly made in heaven. Mimi & Eddison went on to have 4 children, Harrison, Abigail, Ana, and Raphael. Mimi was a loyal servant to God, first and foremost. She loved the church and loved sharing the love and warmth of our savior, Jesus Christ, with as many people as possible. She was a part of Loaves & Fishes and an avid member of Assemblies of God.
Mimi joins her sister, Henley, and her parents, Geraldine and Duncan in Heaven. She is survived by many loving family members, including her husband, Eddison and her children.
Psalm 138
I give you thanks, O LORD! All the kings of the earth will praise you. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life.
Christian obituary template and example for a church secretary
This template is great for those seeking to honor an elderly, deeply religious woman who dedicated her life to her faith and church. It would be particularly fitting for a devout Christian who was active in their church community, whether through choir, ministry, or administrative roles, and who was known for their unwavering belief in Christ.
Christian obituary template for a church secretary
Use this templateLoving mother, ((full_name)), passed away on March 3rd after a short battle with pneumonia. ((first_name)) was ((age)) and was surrounded by many loving family members when ((subject_pronoun)) passed.
((first_name)), born to [parents’ names] on ((date_of_birth)) in [place of birth]. A member of the church from a very young age, ((first_name)) participated in [religious organization] at [church name] alongside ((possessive_pronoun)) family members. After moving to [location], [first name] attended [name of school]. While in school, ((first_name)) realized ((possessive_pronoun)) passion for [passion/hobby/calling]. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) attended [group name / organization name] and developed ((possessive_pronoun)) skills as a [hobbyist title].
After graduation, ((first_name)) went on to be a [career choice / hobby choice].
((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) was passionate about sharing the love of our Lord with others and was an integral part of of our church, [church name]. A loyal servant to God, ((first_name)) spent many of ((possessive_pronoun)) hours dedicating ((possessive_pronoun)) life to [calling]. Now that ((first_name)) has passed into the arms of our Lord, we should remind ourselves that while this is the end of ((first_name))’s physical life on Earth, it’s the beginning of an eternal and beautiful journey for ((object_pronoun)).
((first_name)) joins [list of family members who have already passed] in Heaven. ((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) is survived by many loving family members, including [list family members].
[Psalm or favorite verse]
Christian obituary example for a church secretary
Loving mother, Henrietta Steiner, passed away on March 3rd after a short battle with pneumonia. Henrietta was 85 and was surrounded by many loving family members when she passed.
Henrietta, born to Erica and Andrew Kempfeld on November 18th, 1936 in Summons, North Dakota. A member of the church from a very young age, Henrietta participated in church choir at Alabast Community Church alongside her family members. After moving to South Dakota, Henrietta attended Key Pointe High. While in school, Henrietta realized her passion for scripture. She attended prayer group regularly and developed her skills as a group leader.
After graduation, Henrietta went on to be a church secretary. She was passionate about sharing the love of our Lord with others and was an integral part of of our church, Rimrock Church. A loyal servant to God, Henrietta spent many of her hours dedicating her life to the Lord.
Now that Henrietta has passed into the arms of our Lord, we should remind ourselves that while this is the end of Henrietta’s physical life on Earth, it’s the beginning of an eternal and beautiful journey for her.
Henrietta joins her parents in Heaven. She is survived by many loving family members, including her sister, Barbara, and her many cousins, uncles, and aunts.
“He was pierced because of our rebellions and crushed because of our crimes. He bore the punishment that made us whole; by his wounds we are healed.” - Isaiah 53:5
Obituary template and example for a christian mother
This template is ideal for those seeking to write about a devout Christian mother who lived her life centered on faith, Christ, and the Bible. It would be especially fitting for those who want to emphasize her religious devotion, her role as a spiritual guide to her children, and her belief in eternal life.
Obituary template for a christian mother
Use this templateOn ((date_of_death)), our beloved mother, ((full_name)), was called home to be with the Lord. ((Subject_pronoun_capitalized)) lived a life rooted in faith, devoted to Christ, and guided by the teachings of the Holy Bible.
((Full_name)) was a woman of unwavering belief, whose love for the Lord shone through every aspect of ((possessive_pronoun)) life. ((Subject_pronoun_capitalized)) found joy in prayer, strength in scripture, and peace in the promises of eternal life. ((Subject_pronoun_capitalized)) shared ((possessive_pronoun)) faith through kindness, compassion, and an unyielding trust in God’s plan.
As a mother, ((subject_pronoun)) raised ((possessive_pronoun)) children in the ways of the Lord, teaching them to love, to serve, and to trust in Him always. ((Subject_pronoun_capitalized)) found comfort in verses such as 2 Timothy 4:7—"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." ((Subject_pronoun_capitalized)) now rests in the arms of the Savior, free from pain and sorrow, rejoicing in the presence of the Almighty.
((Full_name)) is survived by ((list surviving family members)), who will carry on ((possessive_pronoun)) legacy of faith and love. While we grieve ((possessive_pronoun)) passing, we find solace in the hope of Christ’s resurrection and the assurance that we will one day be reunited in God’s eternal kingdom.
A celebration of ((possessive_pronoun)) life will be held at ((church/funeral home name)) on ((date and time)), where we will gather to honor ((possessive_pronoun)) memory and rejoice in the promise of everlasting life.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23
Obituary example for a christian mother
On October 15, 2024, our beloved mother, Margaret Anne Thompson, was called home to be with the Lord. She lived a life rooted in faith, devoted to Christ, and guided by the teachings of the Holy Bible.
Margaret was a woman of unwavering belief, whose love for the Lord shone through every aspect of her life. She found joy in prayer, strength in scripture, and peace in the promises of eternal life. She shared her faith through kindness, compassion, and an unyielding trust in God’s plan.
As a mother, she raised her children in the ways of the Lord, teaching them to love, to serve, and to trust in Him always. She found comfort in verses such as 2 Timothy 4:7—"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." She now rests in the arms of the Savior, free from pain and sorrow, rejoicing in the presence of the Almighty.
Margaret is survived by her children, David Thompson (Emily) and Sarah Reynolds (Mark), as well as her five cherished grandchildren. She is also remembered with love by her sister, Evelyn Carter, and a host of dear friends from her church community. While we grieve her passing, we find solace in the hope of Christ’s resurrection and the assurance that we will one day be reunited in God’s eternal kingdom.
A celebration of her life will be held at Grace Community Church on October 20, 2024, at 2:00 PM, where we will gather to honor her memory and rejoice in the promise of everlasting life.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23
Christian obituary template and example for a father with cancer
This is an example of an obituary for a father who passed away after a short battle with testicular cancer. This obituary example emphasizes the deceased's faith and devotion to his family, highlighting the deep love he shared with his wife and children.
Christian obituary template for a father with cancer
Our beloved father, [full_name], entered into God’s Kingdom on [date_of_death] after a short battle with testicular cancer.
[First_name] was born to [parents’ names] on [date_of_birth] in [place of birth]. When [first_name] was younger, his favorite activities were [list of activities]. He attended [school name] and graduated with a degree in [subject]. After graduating, he moved to [location] and pursued a career in [subject].
In [year], [first_name] met [spouse’s first name], a match truly made in heaven. [First_name] & [spouse’s first name] went on to have [number] children, [list names]. [First_name] was a loyal servant to God, first and foremost. He loved the church and loved sharing the love and warmth of our savior, Jesus Christ, with as many people as possible. He was a part of [community organization] and an avid member of [religious organization].
[First_name] joins [list of family members who have already passed] in Heaven. He is survived by many loving family members, including [list family members].
[Psalm or favorite verse]
Use this templateChristian obituary example for a father with cancer
Our beloved father, Takeshi Nakamura, entered into God’s Kingdom on March 5th, 2025 after a short battle with testicular cancer.
Takeshi was born to Yoshiko and Haruto Nakamura on August 14th, 1970 in Kyoto, Japan. When Takeshi was younger, his favorite activities were playing soccer, reading novels, and practicing calligraphy. He attended Kyoto University and graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering. After graduating, he moved to San Francisco, California and pursued a career in technology development.
In 1995, Takeshi met Emiko, a match truly made in heaven. Takeshi & Emiko went on to have three children, Kenji, Miyuki, and Sakura. Takeshi was a loyal servant to God, first and foremost. He loved the church and loved sharing the love and warmth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, with as many people as possible. He was a part of the local food bank ministry and an avid member of the Tokyo Baptist Church.
Takeshi joins his parents, Yoshiko and Haruto, and his brother, Hiroshi, in Heaven. He is survived by many loving family members, including his wife, Emiko, and their children, Kenji, Miyuki, and Sakura.
Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
Obituary template and example for a religious teen
This template would be fitting for someone writing an obituary about a young individual whose faith remained strong despite illness and adversity. It would be especially meaningful for families who want to emphasize themes of perseverance, divine purpose, and the hope of reunion in Heaven.
Obituary template for a religious teen
Use this templateOur beloved ((full_name)) was chosen by God to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven on ((date_of_death)). We weren’t ready to lose ((object_pronoun)) but know that ((subject_pronoun)) is in a much better place. ((first_name)) was diagnosed with [illness] at the age of [age of onset]. Throughout ((possessive_pronoun)) later years, ((subject_pronoun)) was an absolute warrior, enduring so much with so little complaint.
((subject_pronoun_capitalized)) stands in our hearts as a reminder of strength, perseverance, love, and compassion. Though we will mourn ((possessive_pronoun)) loss daily, we know we will be reunited in time.
A funeral will be held at [location] on [date] at [time] with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to [cause], our church.
Obituary example for a religious teen
Our beloved Tessa Mae Kim was chosen by God to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven on May 13th, 2021. We weren’t ready to lose her but know that they are in a much better place. Tessa was diagnosed with a terminal illness at the age of 14. Throughout her later years, she was an absolute warrior, enduring so much with so little complaint.
She stands in our hearts as a reminder of strength, perseverance, love, and compassion. Though we will mourn her loss daily, we know we will be reunited in time.
A funeral will be held at St. James AME on May 16th at 9:30 AM with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. James AME, our church.
Hopefully these Christian obituary samples have helped you figure out where you’d like to start – keep in mind they can be changed to fit your needs and style.
How can I share an obituary I’ve created?
Once you’ve written an obituary, the next step is to share it! Sharing an obituary has never been easier. You can share the obituary by creating a memorial website and posting the obituary online. Ever Loved memorial websites offer a space to publish the obituary for free, collect donations, share and collect photos and memories, and share event information with your community.
