Obituary — how to write one, what to include, and a sample text
From the opening phrase to the funeral service details — we explain how to prepare a dignified obituary and how we can help.
An obituary is often the first way a family informs others of a loss. In a time of grief, the text should be clear, respectful, and include everything guests need to know about the funeral service.
This article explains what an obituary is, how it is structured, and what a sample notice looks like — so you can prepare the announcement calmly and with dignity.
What is an obituary
An obituary is an official announcement of a person’s death, informing relatives, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances of the passing and the funeral arrangements. In Bulgaria it remains an important part of mourning tradition, used both in print and online.
Obituaries may be:
- Printed — placed at the entrance to the home, workplace foyer, church, or another visible location
- Digital — shared on Facebook, Viber groups, or specialized websites
- Combined — the same text distributed on paper and online
How to write an obituary
The traditional Bulgarian obituary follows a clear structure. Each element has its place and meaning.
Opening phrase
The notice usually begins with a brief mourning message. Common options include:
- SORROWFUL NEWS (Скръбна вест)
- With deep sorrow we announce
- With indescribable sorrow we announce
The phrase appears at the top, often in larger type or capitals.
Name of the deceased
Write the person’s full name — first, patronymic, and family name. If the family wishes, an honorific or title (e.g. “Prof.” or “Dr.”) may be added.
Dates
Include year of birth and year of death — for example “1945 – 2024”. Optionally add the exact date of death: “passed away on 15 May 2024”.
Funeral service information
This is the most practical section. It should include:
- Date of the viewing or funeral
- Time of the service
- Location — funeral home, church, cemetery, or other venue
- Day of the week — helpful for readers (e.g. “Friday”)
Closing phrase
Traditionally the notice ends with a brief tribute:
- “We bow before his/her bright memory!”
- “Eternal rest!”
The signature is usually “From the family” or lists the closest relatives.
Sample obituary
Below is a sample notice with a typical structure. The text is illustrative — for a real order we adapt every word to your wishes.
SORROWFUL NEWS
With deep sorrow we announce that
IVAN PETROV IVANOV
1945 – 2024
passed away on 15 May 2024.
The funeral service will take place on 17 May 2024 (Friday) at 11:00 at the “Eternal Memory” Funeral Home, Plovdiv.
We bow before his bright memory!
From the family
Where obituaries are placed
| Location | Note |
|---|---|
| Home entrance | Most common — visible to neighbours and passers-by |
| Workplace | Informs colleagues and partners |
| Church or temple | Traditional place for announcements |
| Funeral home | Displayed during the viewing |
| Online | Facebook, Viber, specialized sites |
How we can help
At Seven Heaven we prepare obituaries from your text or help you draft them. We offer printing in various formats, fast delivery, and placement at the required locations in Plovdiv.
Unsure how to phrase the notice? Call us — we will guide you with respect and attention to detail.
Frequently asked questions
How many copies of an obituary are needed?
It depends on how many locations will display it. Families usually order between 5 and 15 copies — for the home, workplace, church, and spare copies. Additional prints can often be arranged the same day.
Can an obituary be published online?
Yes. More families now share obituaries on social media and specialized websites. The same text can be used for print and digital sharing — what matters is that it includes complete service details.
How quickly can an obituary be prepared?
In urgent cases we can prepare obituaries within a few hours. Call 0898691745 — we work around the clock, 24/7.
What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to an announcement of death with funeral information. “Sorrowful news” (скръбна вест) is another traditional title.
Conclusion
Preparing an obituary is an important part of funeral organization and deserves care and accuracy. Clear wording, correct dates, and precise service details help loved ones say goodbye with dignity.
Call 0898691745 — 49 Tsarevets St., Plovdiv. We can handle the obituaries so you can focus on your family.
Seven Heaven Funeral Agency — 22 years of experience. With you in life’s hardest moments.