Life Summary

Example of Summary of Life

What is a summary of life document

A summary of life document is a one to three page document that summarizes the life of your loved one for the purpose to be read at the top of the celebration of life service.

What does it contain

The following items can be included:

• Where they were born
• What did their parents do for a living
• What was it like growing up in that home
• Name’s of siblings
• Tragic moments and events in their lives
• Special days in their childhood or adulthood
• College(s)
• Career(s)
• Awards
• How did they find their spouse
• Favorite vacation destinations
• Favorite hobbies
• Passions
• Children / grandchildren
• Special accomplishments
• Unique hurdles jumped
• Special people in their life

How is it to be written

This document is best written in story format.  Not in bullets, but in paragraphs.  Words that should describe this summary of life include:

• Informative
• Light
• Intersting
• Warm
• Inspiring
• Kind
• Humorous
• Insightful
• Touching

It should also be written in such a way that those who are closest to the loved one, will be built up, encouraged and shown love.

The document should NOT include:

• Events or past situations not flattering to the loved one
• Events or past situations that are controversial in nature
• Events or past situations in which may have the potential to create hurt feelings with those hearing it read.

Who should read it

It can be read by anyone such as a family member, close friend, son or daughter in law, or the minister.   The most logical is the minister, but it’s wide open who can read it.

Who should write it

Anyone who knows their past (places, dates, people, and such).  It’s not a bad idea to have several people write it and that can be done in collaboration using Google Docs or Microsoft One Drive.

Length

As long as it is interesting, it can be any length.  But an average length is between 1-3 pages typed double spaced.

When should it be read

In our experience, the best time to read it is at the very beginning of the service.  It makes for good way to set a positive tone for the service.