Two important ways to honor the deceased and announce their passing are the death notice and the obituary. Although both play a role in the context of mourning, they differ in several key aspects. In this article, we aim to provide an overview of these differences.
The key differences: An obituary notice is a brief, formal announcement of a death with practical information. A eulogy, on the other hand, is a detailed tribute to the life and achievements of the deceased.
Obituary Notice: The Formal Announcement
An obituary notice is primarily a formal announcement of a death. It serves to inform a wider audience about the loss and to share practical details.
- Typical contents: Name of the deceased, birth and death dates, information on the funeral or memorial service, names of surviving relatives
- Format and length: Short and concise, often no longer than a quarter or half of a newspaper page
- Publication: Traditionally in daily newspapers, increasingly on dedicated online platforms
- Author: Typically written by close relatives or funeral homes on behalf of the family
Eulogy: The Comprehensive Tribute
A eulogy goes beyond a simple announcement and offers a more in-depth tribute to the deceased and their life.
- Typical contents: Biography, professional achievements, personal anecdotes, character traits, contributions to society
- Format and length: Significantly longer than an obituary notice, can span multiple paragraphs or even pages
- Publication: Newspapers, magazines, online media, dedicated memorial pages
- Author: Journalists, colleagues, friends, or family members with a deeper connection to the deceased
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Obituary Notice | Eulogy |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Short (1/4 to 1/2 page) | Extensive (can be multiple pages) |
| Timing | Immediately after death | Can be published later |
| Cost | 200-1,200€ (Print) / from 0€ (Digital) | Variable |
| Main Purpose | Information | Tribute |
When is Which Format Appropriate?
The two formats do not exclude each other but rather complement one another:
- An obituary notice is ideal for quickly informing a wide circle of people, for example, to share practical details like the dates of the funeral or memorial service.
- A eulogy, on the other hand, provides a detailed tribute to the deceased's life, allowing for the sharing of personal stories and memories.
Digital Options
Our online platform allows you to combine an obituary notice with a eulogy. You can create an obituary notice that also includes elements of a eulogy. The advantages of digital formats include:
- Easy creation and quick publication
- Online condolence book
- Flexibility in length and design
- Long-term availability as a digital memorial
Create a digital obituary here