How To Use ChatGPT To Write An Obituary

In this article, we’ll explore how to harness the capabilities of ChatGPT to thoughtfully and respectfully compose obituaries, providing guidance and examples to assist you through this sensitive process.

Step 1: Gather Personal Details

Before starting to write the obituary online, gathering personal information is essential. Including basic facts like:

• Full name, including maiden name if applicable
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Date of passing
• Place of passing
• Occupation and place of employment
• Religion, if desired 
• Education
• Veteran, if applicable
• Favorite hobbies or activities
• Notable life events (professional or personal achievements, awards)
• Spouse or partner’s name
• Length of marriage or relationship 
• Children’s names, if applicable
• Names of children’s spouses or partners, if applicable
• Grandchildren names, if applicable
• Name of funeral provider
• Details about memorial service, if desired
• Charitable donation information, if desired

Gathering personal details is foundational, involving factual data and the essence of the deceased’s personality, achievements, and impact on others.

Step 2: Write An Obituary With ChatGPT

ChatGPT requires clear instructions to capture the essence of the departed’s life story respectfully and engagingly. Here is our guide to make the process easier:

1. Understand the Purpose: An obituary is about remembering and honoring the deceased’s life.
2. Choose a Relevant Prompt: Pick a prompt that captures the essence of the person’s life story.
3. Providing Information: Share the information you collected. For instance, you might say, “My dad embodied kindness and generosity, serving as a devoted spouse and esteemed educator.”
4. Set the Tone: Decide if the obituary should be formal, warm, or a mix, and instruct ChatGPT accordingly.
5. Guide Grammar Usage: Specify whether to follow strict grammar rules or allow for a more casual style.
6. Select Appropriate Words: Use descriptive language that reflects the person’s personality and achievements.
7. Review and Edit: Check for accuracy and coherence after ChatGPT generates the obituary.
8. Add Personal Touches: Consider including anecdotes or quotes from family and friends to personalize the obituary.
9. Finalize and Share: Once edited, finalize the obituary and share it with others for publication or remembrance.

Let’s take a look at a few prompt examples to try:

Here is an example of a ChatGPT obituary prompt:

And here is what ChatGPT wrote:

“Sam Walton, a venerable pioneer in aerospace engineering and a luminary in the field of genealogy, passed away on October 24, 2043, in Chula Vista, CA, just a day after his 100th birthday. Born on October 23, 1943, in National City, CA, to Kyle and Betty Walton, Sam’s journey was one marked by dedication, innovation, and a boundless passion for exploration, both in the skies and through the annals of history.

Sam’s illustrious career began at Rohr Industries in 1967, shortly after earning his BS in Aerospace Engineering from San Diego State University. Throughout his 35-year tenure, he ascended from an Aerodynamicist to a revered Chief Aero-Thermo Engineer and Staff Engineer. Sam was instrumental in developing several jet engine thrust reverser patents, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer in aerospace technology.

Parallel to his professional achievements, Sam harbored a profound passion for genealogy and family history research, which blossomed in 1988 into a remarkable second career. As a professional genealogist, he was a researcher, teacher, speaker, and prolific blogger. His daily contributions to the Genea-Musings blog since 2006 and his stewardship of the CVGS newsletter since 2009 showcased his commitment to the genealogical community. Sam’s tireless efforts culminated in a monumental Ancestry Member Tree featuring over 105,000 profiles and sources, linking his lineage to 13 Mayflower passengers, several colonial governors, and notable historical figures such as Charlemagne, King Alfred, and William the Conqueror.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Sam was a man of varied interests, from stamp and coin collecting to Medium Wave DXing. His love for the San Diego Padres, San Diego Chargers, and SDSU sports was only paralleled by his enthusiasm for science, engineering, history, geography, politics, and travel.

Sam’s personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. He married his beloved spouse, Joey, in 1970, and together they embarked on a life full of love, discovery, and adventure, blessed with children LLH and TJL, grandchildren LRH, LSH, LOL, ASL, CDL, and numerous great-grandchildren. Sam’s commitment to his community and faith was unwavering as a devout member of his church, B Club, C Society, and the San Diego Genealogical Society.

Sam Walton was a man who lived by the credo “Fake it till you make it,” a testament to his enduring optimism and perseverance. His legacy is one of intellectual curiosity, pioneering spirit, and an unyielding dedication to family and community. Sam’s contributions to aerospace engineering and genealogy will be remembered for generations to come, as will his role as a mentor, friend, and beacon of knowledge.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many. Sam’s legacy will continue to inspire and enlighten, a fitting tribute to a life so richly lived. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.”

Step 3: Editing and Finalizing the Obituary

Now that the obituary’s written, let’s ensure it’s just right before sharing it with others. Here’s what to do:

Fact-Check Dates, Names, and Details

Before finalizing, carefully check all the factual details, including birth and death dates, family member names, and other important information. It’s crucial to be accurate when honoring the memory of the deceased.

Ensure the Tone Fits

To ensure the obituary’s grammar and tone are just right, we need to check that it’s respectful and fitting. We’ll carefully look at the words and feelings conveyed. It should honor the occasion and the person’s life with dignity, warmth, and the right emotions.

Get Feedback from Loved Ones

Getting feedback from family members or close friends is crucial. They know the deceased best, so seek their input. Their perspectives offer valuable insights into the person’s character, achievements, and impact. By incorporating their feedback, the obituary gains depth and authenticity, resonating with those who knew and loved the departed.

By going through these steps carefully, we can ensure the obituary truly honors the person’s memory in the best possible way.

Bottom Line

With the help of ChatGPT, crafting an obituary becomes a more accessible and more heartfelt task. By incorporating personal anecdotes and sentiments, the ChatGPT obituary serves as a dignified tribute to the departed loved one.