Image Credit When it comes to writing a loved one's obituary, many newspapers have standard formats, but others allow the writer to take creative liberties.

Many newspapers have specific styles and formats that they want their customers to follow. Before you begin writing an Obituary, contact the newspaper first and request their template. Grief & Loss Navigating Loss Obituaries Sample Obituary Formats for You to Follow By Michele Meleen, M.S.Ed.

What follows is a sample template for a basic obituary.