So You Need to Announce That Uncle Bob Kicked the Bucket (Metaphorically Speaking) in the Washington Post?
Let's face it, obituaries aren't exactly known for their laugh-out-loud moments. But hey, even in somber times, a little humor can go a long way. Here's the down-low on how to get Uncle Bob's grand exit splashed across the pages of the Washington Post, without accidentally writing a comedy routine.
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
 |
| How To Post An Obituary In The Washington Post |
Choosing Your Tribute: Paid Notice vs. News Obituary
There are two ways to get your loved one's story out there:
-
Paid Notice: This is your classic obituary format. You write it, you pay for it, and it goes in the classifieds section (though don't worry, it's a classier kind of classifieds). Here, you can include all the nitty-gritty details: surviving family, funeral arrangements, and that hilarious story about the time he accidentally dyed the neighbor's poodle purple (RIP, Fifi). Bold text and tasteful photos are welcome!
-
News Obituary: This is the free option, but it's a bit of a gamble. Think of it like submitting a guest article. The Washington Post editors decide if Uncle Bob's life story is newsworthy enough to make the cut. They might rewrite it a bit, so keep it concise and focus on his achievements.
Pro Tip: For the paid notice, don't be afraid to inject some personality! Did Uncle Bob have a wicked sense of humor? Let it shine through. Just avoid anything that might be considered offensive (we all know how Aunt Mildred feels about that time at the karaoke bar...).
 |
Here's How to Do It (The Not-So-Boring Part):
-
Paid Notice:
- Channel your inner Hemingway: Craft a clear and concise obituary that captures the essence of Uncle Bob's life.
- Proofread like a hawk: Typos are a bummer, especially when they accidentally say "beloved" instead of "beheaded" (yikes!).
- Call the Classified Department: Dial 202-334-4122 and they'll walk you through the process. You can also email them at deathnotices@washpost.com. Just be prepared to shed a tear or two (or laugh hysterically, depending on the story you're telling).
-
News Obituary:
- Fill out the online form: Head over to [washingtonpost.com obituary submission] and tell them all about Uncle Bob's fascinating life.
- Keep it newsworthy: Did he win a pie-eating contest? Invent a revolutionary spud gun? These are the kinds of details that might grab their attention.
- Crossed fingers: There's no guarantee they'll publish it, but hey, you never know!
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (with Wit, of Course)
- How do I make my paid notice funny?
- Focus on the funny anecdotes, but keep it tasteful. Imagine what Uncle Bob would want!
- What if I can't write an obituary?
- No worries! There are services that can help you craft the perfect tribute.
- Can I include a photo?
- Absolutely! Just make sure it's a solo shot of Uncle Bob (no rogue family members photobombing the moment).
- How much does a paid notice cost?
- The price depends on the length of the notice and any photos you include. Check with the Washington Post for current rates.
- Will this obituary go online too?
- You bet! Paid notices are also published on washingtonpost.com
So there you have it! Now you can commemorate Uncle Bob in a way that's both informative and, hopefully, brings a smile (or a chuckle) to those who read it.
 |
