Obituaries Archives - The Martha's Vineyard Times (2024)

FAQs

What are the final words on an obituary? ›

Concluding Message

In the conclusion of the obituary, special requests may be made such as, “in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to…” or “Our heartfelt thanks to the staff at General Hospital for…” Some families make the final line a dedication honoring their loved one.

Since our founding in 1984, The Martha's Vineyard Times has become the Island's most widely read newspaper for year-round Islanders, long-term summer residents, and Vineyard visitors, with an average circulation of approximately 15,000 copies each week.

When writing an obituary, leave out details that could be used for identity theft, such as the deceased's date and place of birth, middle name, maiden name and mother's maiden name. And don't include the deceased's home address.

If you are stuck, start from the beginning. Then give a sense of the person's personality and qualities. End by naming surviving family members, giving information about the funeral, and where to send charitable donations in their honor.

If you're unsure how to end your eulogy, finish with a simple goodbye, or a thank you for the memories you shared. You might choose to use traditional phrases like 'rest in peace' or 'sleep well'. Or you can use something less formal, like a greeting or joke you used to share with the person who has died.

Your last wishes can include anything you want, including funeral or cremation preferences and plans, body disposition preferences, obituary information, messages to your loved ones, requests for your final days, and personal information like where your will is.