Telling Their Life Story: Biography, Memory Books, and More

An obituary captures the basics quickly — but many families want something more lasting, and there’s no deadline for creating it.

What’s the difference between an obituary and a life story or biography?

An obituary is typically short and public-facing, often published quickly after a death. A fuller life story or biography can be much longer, more personal, and created over time - sometimes months or years later - without the same time pressure. This might include family history, career, formative experiences, and the kind of detail that gives future generations a real sense of who the person was, not just facts about them.

What is a memory book?

A memory book collects contributions from multiple people - family, friends, colleagues - rather than being written by just one person. This can be assembled:

• At a funeral or memorial service, with a physical book guests write in
• Afterward, gathering written memories, photos, and stories over weeks or months
• Digitally, through a shared document or dedicated memorial page

How do I gather memories from other people?

A simple ask - a group text, email, or social media post inviting people to share a favorite memory or story - often surfaces details and perspectives a single family member wouldn’t have thought to include alone.

Is it too late to start this if it’s been months or years since the death?

No - many families create these projects well after the initial mourning period, sometimes specifically because they now have more emotional space to focus on it thoughtfully rather than doing it under time pressure.

This can be as simple or elaborate as feels right for your family — there’s no required format for honoring someone’s story.