Writing an obituary is a heartfelt way to honor a loved one’s life and share their story with the community. For Springfield, Illinois residents, crafting a meaningful obituary should reflect local traditions while celebrating the unique person your loved one was. Whether you’ve written one before or are new to this process, we've put together a helpful guide to make it easier.
Here are 20 key considerations to keep in mind when writing an obituary in Springfield, Illinois.
1. Start with the Basics
Begin with the essential details, such as the person's full name, age, date of birth, date of passing, and location. For Springfield locals, mentioning that they were a resident of Springfield, Illinois, helps connect with the community.
2. Share Key Life Details
An obituary isn't just a record—it's a story. Highlight important milestones, such as education, careers, and major achievements. Did they attend Springfield High School? Were they active members of the local church or any civic groups? Mentioning these local ties brings their story to life for friends and neighbors.
3. Include Family Connections
List immediate family members, such as spouses, children, siblings, and close relatives. Consider using phrases like "loving husband of…" or "devoted mother to…" to add warmth. For Springfield families, acknowledging multi-generational ties to the community can feel especially meaningful.
4. Celebrate Accomplishments
Did your loved one contribute to the Springfield, Illinois community in lasting ways? Share those moments. Were they part of a local charity, small business, or greatly involved in area events? Highlighting their legacy in this way provides inspiration and connection.
5. Mention Interests and Hobbies
Help readers see the personality and passions of your loved one. Did they enjoy gardening at Washington Park or cheering for the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes? Hobbies and interests make obituaries even more personal.
6. Honor Faith and Values
Springfield has a rich faith culture. If your loved one was religious or spiritual, mentioning their connection to their faith or place of worship can bring added layers of meaning.
7. Add a Bit of Personality
If your loved one had a unique sense of humor, quirks, or catchphrases, include these details. It helps paint a vivid picture of who they really were, beyond just the basics.
8. Mention Funeral or Memorial Service Details
Provide the date, time, and location for services, if applicable. If the service is at a local venue, include the exact address or name of the chapel, like Butler Funeral Homes in Springfield, Illinois.
9. Share Opportunities to Honor Them
Many families in Springfield opt for memorial donations in place of flowers. Provide direct information about charities or organizations that reflect the deceased's values, such as ALS of Central Illinois or Springfield-based food pantries.
10. List Special Requests or Tributes
Include anything special for guests to know, such as dress codes, specific requests for attendees, or online tribute pages.
11. Keep It Personal, Not Generic
Avoid generic phrases. Instead of just saying, “They were loved,” try, “Sarah’s quick wit and boundless energy lit up every family gathering.” Personal anecdotes impact readers on a deeper level.
12. Acknowledge Contributors to Their Life
Highlight local caregivers, companions, or institutions that made a difference in your loved one's life, such as Springfield Memorial Hospital or a home care provider.
13. Proofread Carefully
Mistakes can distract from the tribute you want to share. Proofread with care and have a trusted friend review it with fresh eyes before submitting.
14. Work Within Word Limits
Some local newspapers like The State Journal-Register have word count restrictions for obituaries, so check the guidelines. Make sure every sentence counts.
15. Choose a Tribute Image
Decide whether you’ll include a photo. A favorite portrait that truly captures their essence can profoundly enhance the memorial.
16. Keep a Local Focus
Springfield residents value their community. Mention beloved local landmarks, family memories rooted in Illinois, or traditions they loved, such as the Old Capitol Art Fair or attending Illinois State Fair events.
17. Add Comforting Details
If appropriate, include heartfelt words about their gentle departure, such as “passed peacefully surrounded by family.” These tender expressions bring comfort to readers.
18. Adapt for Online Tributes
Many families use services like Legacy.com to extend obituaries online. Springfield families can use this platform to gather condolence messages beyond the printed version.
19. Don’t Rush the Process
Take your time when writing. It’s okay to pause, reflect, and seek input from other loved ones to ensure the obituary feels complete.
20. Get Expert Help if Needed
If writing feels overwhelming, consulting with a professional can ease the process. Services or tools, like Pole Barn Chic’s templates and editing assistance, can ensure the perfect tribute is created for your loved one.
5 reasons to choose Pole Barn Chic for your Springfield Illinois Funeral Repast or reception.
- Personalized Service
Pole Barn Chic understands that every family is unique and deserves personalized service for their loved one's funeral repast or reception. We work closely with families to create a heartfelt and meaningful tribute that reflects the individuality of their loved one.
- Great Attention to Detail
Our team has years of experience in event planning, ensuring that no detail is overlooked in creating a beautiful and memorable repast or reception. From table decorations to menu selections, we take great care in making sure everything is perfect for your family and guests.
- Flexible Catering Options
We offer a variety of menu options to accommodate different dietary preferences and restrictions, as well as budget considerations . Our team can also work with you to create a custom menu that reflects your loved one's favorite foods or cultural background.
- Convenient Location
Our venue is located just a short drive from many cemeteries and funeral homes in the Springfield area, making it easy for guests to attend both the funeral service and repast or reception without having to travel far.
- Dedicated Staff
Our staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service and support during this difficult time for your family. We understand the importance of honoring your loved one in a special way, and we are committed to ensuring that their funeral repast or reception is everything you want it to be.
Remembering our loved ones
Writing an obituary is not just a task—it’s a labor of love. It’s an opportunity to ensure their memory lives on in a meaningful way. At Pole Barn Chic, we offer resources and support to help families in Springfield, Illinois, beautifully honor their loved ones.
If you’re looking for extra guidance, consider downloading one of our carefully crafted obituary templates, or contact us to learn how we can support you during this challenging time.
Planning a funeral in Springfield, Illinois, doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you have the right guidance and resources. With the city's rich history, trusted service providers, and venues like Pole Barn Chic, you can create a compassionate, memorable day that honors your loved one and brings people together.
If you’re planning a service now or pre-planning for the future, take a moment to contact Pole Barn Chic to explore how they can assist with the reception. Together, we ensure that every detail is covered, so you can focus on remembering the meaningful moments of life.
Contact Pole Barn Chic today to start planning your perfect reception.
Planning a funeral or memorial for someone you love can be challenging, but selecting a venue like Pole Barn Chic with a dedicated professional venue team and beautiful serene grounds and receptions spaces will help with the planning process. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour of our venue.
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PoleBarnChic.com (217) 685-7389 polebarnchicevents@gmail.com
North of St. Louis, East of Peoria, 4491 Old Chatham Rd. Springfield Illinois