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Obituary Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Affinity Care of Sarasota

FL

Organizes important information that will be needed after the death, including notifying key people, writing an obituary, etc. * Assists with Life review/legacy work. * Helps planning for final ...

DENVER ROLLER INC

Funeral Director

Mountain Home, AR · On-site

Counseling with families including merchandise, obituary and assisting them to deal with their ... Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively present information ...

FirstBank

New Accounts

Coalgate, OK

Obituary maintenance for Precision (completed daily.) * Ensure documents have been imaged within ... Strong verbal and written communication skills. * Neat, legible, and efficient handwriting.

FirstBank

New Accounts

Coalgate, OK · On-site

Obituary maintenance for Precision (completed daily.) * Ensure documents have been imaged within ... Strong verbal and written communication skills. * Neat, legible, and efficient handwriting.

DENVER ROLLER INC

Funeral Director

Marshall, AR · On-site

Counseling with families including merchandise, obituary and assisting them to deal with their ... Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively present information ...

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Obituary Writer information

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$13

$38

$66

How much do obituary writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for obituary writer in the United States is $38.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $47.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Obituary Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Obituary Writer, you need excellent writing, research, and interviewing skills, often supported by a background in journalism or English. Familiarity with word processing software and content management systems is typical, as well as understanding editorial guidelines and deadlines. Sensitivity, empathy, and strong communication help build trust with grieving families and ensure respectful storytelling. These skills are crucial for crafting accurate, heartfelt obituaries that honor lives and provide comfort to loved ones.

Is obituary writer a job?

Yes, an obituary writer is a professional who creates obituaries to honor and inform about deceased individuals. This role often requires strong writing skills, research abilities, and sensitivity to the subject matter, and may be employed by newspapers, online publications, or funeral homes.

How much do you get paid to write an obituary?

Obituary writers typically earn between $15 and $50 per obituary, depending on factors such as experience, publication, and complexity. Freelance writers may charge per piece or by the word, while staff writers often receive a regular salary or hourly wage.

How to become an obituary writer?

To become an obituary writer, strong writing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to conduct research are essential. Many obituary writers have backgrounds in journalism, English, or related fields, and some gain experience through internships or freelance work. Familiarity with obituary formats and sensitivity to personal stories are also important for success in this role.

How do I get started writing an obituary?

To become an obituary writer, start by researching obituary formats and writing styles, and develop strong writing and interviewing skills. Gaining experience through internships or freelance assignments can help build a portfolio, and familiarity with journalistic ethics and sensitive communication is essential for this role.

What are some common challenges an Obituary Writer faces when gathering information for a piece?

Obituary Writers often need to delicately balance accuracy with sensitivity, as they gather personal stories and details from grieving families and friends. It can sometimes be challenging to obtain complete and accurate information, especially if loved ones are emotional or memories conflict. Maintaining professionalism and empathy during interviews, while meeting tight publication deadlines, is crucial. Additionally, writers must ensure that the obituary honors the deceased's life respectfully while adhering to editorial guidelines.

What is the difference between Obituary Writer vs Obituary Writer?

AspectObituary Writer
CredentialsTypically requires journalism, writing, or communications background; no specific certifications needed
Work EnvironmentWorks for newspapers, online publications, or funeral homes, often in an office setting
Industry UsageCommonly employed in media outlets or funeral service industries
Job FocusResearching and writing respectful obituaries that honor individuals' lives

Obituary Writers primarily focus on creating respectful, accurate obituaries for media outlets or funeral homes. They require strong writing skills and familiarity with journalistic standards. Their work environment is typically office-based, and their role is essential in the funeral and media industries. The main difference from related roles is their emphasis on obituary content creation, rather than broader journalism or writing tasks.

What are obituary writers?

Obituary writers are professionals who compose written tributes summarizing the lives of people who have passed away. Their work involves gathering information about the deceased, interviewing family members and friends, and crafting narratives that honor the individual's life, achievements, and legacy. Obituary writers may work for newspapers, funeral homes, or as freelancers, and their writing helps inform the public and provide comfort to grieving families. Their goal is to create an accurate, respectful, and memorable account of a person's life.
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Obituary Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Obituary Writer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,001 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

RECEPTIONIST

French Funerals-Cremations, Inc.

Albuquerque, NM

$19/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Receptionist Position

The Receptionist plays a vital role in assisting families during a difficult time, ensuring smooth operations for funeral service coordination, and maintaining accurate records. The individual will be responsible for ensuring that all necessary documents are properly entered, assisting with obituary publication, managing funeral service logistics, and supporting other office functions.

Essential Functions:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Answers incoming calls, within three rings, positively, and warmly

• Greets families or guests upon arrival

• Accurately directs caller to the appropriate people courteously and professionally

• Assist families with writing obituaries and coordinating with newspapers for publication

• Receives direction from Funeral Directors on necessary service work

• Provides general information and pricing information in accordance with FTC standards to callers and families

• Files and maintains decedent files

• Maintaining file checklists both physically and in Passare program

• Gathers pertinent information to draft initial death certificate and issue manually and electronically

• Determines approval signatures and where the death certificate is to be delivered for signature

• Communicates with physicians' offices and hospitals as well as OMI, Vital Records, and other facilities

• Confirm death benefits and insurance details

• Schedules and confirms funeral arrangements

• Coordinate and verify information with funeral directors and office staff

• Distributes death certificates to families

• Maintains a neat and tidy reception area

• Offers refreshments to visitors, guests and or families

• Promotes a positive environment that effectively represents FFC's Mission, Vision and Values

Requirements

Physical, Mental and Environmental Demands:

This job operates in a public environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Able to sit for up to four hours at a time

• Able to lift up to 50 pounds from the floor

• Bend at waist

• Grasping with hand

Required Education and Experience:

Minimum Education:

• High school graduate, or equivalent.

• Some college preferred

Minimum Experience:

• Experience with customer service and office responsibilities

• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite

Salary Description $19.00 / hourly

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