The Proper Sendoff: A Guide to Writing Obituaries (Even Your Own)
May 11, 13, 18, 20 | 10-11:30 a.m.
Jennings Auditorium, Greencroft Goshen Community Center
Some of the most inspiring, informative and entertaining stories are to be found in the obituary section—or used to be. There are so many lives worth celebrating, but fewer journalists devote time to writing obit essays. We’ll begin with a brief overview of the obituary genre; we’ll read and discuss a sampling of some of the best obit essays. We’ll turn to the steps involved in the research and writing of obits.
Finally, each person will be invited to write an obit: for a friend or for oneself. The best research is possible while the subject is still available for a sit-down interview!
Duane Stoltzfus serves as chair of the Communication Department at Goshen College. He is a former staff editor at The New York Times.