Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Merlin Olsen Obituary
Utah State University assistant athletic media relations director Zach Fisher says Olsen died Wednesday night at a Los Angeles hospital.
He was diagnosed with mesothelioma last year.
Olsen was an All-American at Utah State and a first-round draft pick of the Los Angles Rams in 1962.
The burley giant from northern Utah joined Deacon Jones, Lamar Lundy and Rosey Grier on the Rams' storied "Fearsome Foursome" defensive line known for either stopping or knocking backward whatever offenses it faced. The Rams set an NFL record for the fewest yards allowed during a 14-game season in 1968.
Olsen was rookie of the year for the Rams in 1962 and is still the Rams' all-time leader in career tackles with 915. He was named to 14 consecutive Pro Bowls, a string that started his rookie year.
Olsen was also an established televisio n actor with a role on "Little House on the Prairie," then starring in his own series, "Father Murphy," from 1981 to 1983 and the short-lived "Aaron's Way" in 1988.
Olsen was a consensus All-American at Utah State and won the 1961 Outland Trophy as the nation's best interior lineman. The Rams drafted Olsen third overall in 1962 and he spent the next 15 years with the team before retiring in 1976.
Utah State honored Olsen in December by naming the football field at Romney Stadium "Merlin Olsen Field." Because of his illness, Olsen's alma mater didn't want to wait until football season and made the announcement during halftime of a basketball game.
Olsen was well enough to attend, but did not speak at the event. He stood and smiled as he waved to fans during a standing ovation and chants of "Merlin Olsen!" and "Aggie Legend!"
Utah State is also planning a statue of Olsen at the southeast corner of the stadium.
The Rams also honored Olsen during a g ame Dec. 20, with a video tribute narrated by Dick Enberg, Olsen's longtime broadcast partner. Olsen did not attend because of his health. His name was already part of the Ring of Fame inside the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis along with other franchise standouts.
He was voted NFC defensive lineman of the year in 1973 and the NFL MVP in 1974, and was voted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
526 Entries
Lisa Brooks
April 27, 2023
My fondest memory of Merlin Olsen is my Grandfather geeking out because he was able to get a picture with him. I loved him in Little House.
Tyson McMillan
August 29, 2019
I never knew him personally in this life, I did however enjoy his films and biography. He seemed like a very kind person. Now I have relatives going to USU as well.... hope Heaven is treating you well.
Gary Hoetker
December 24, 2017
He is sorely missed by everyone that loves football and admires the great and humble man he was. Dick Enberg once said...... God does not create perfect people but Merlin Olsen came close. He sure did.
How you can show support
Nazarene Mckinney
March 6, 2017
He added to the warmth and charm of Little House. On The Prairie!
Jeff D'Alessio
August 13, 2016
You were Hall of Famer in all aspects of life. You seemed to be a decent, caring man who I know would be so proud that the Rams are back in L.A.
Harry Simpson
March 11, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Lisa Weiner
December 13, 2013
To Merlin Olsen,
I thought you were a very talented actor. My prayers go to you and your family. Lisa Weiner
penny barrett
July 29, 2010
Hi Susan So sorry to hear about Merlin. I can say I know what you are going through from when I lost George. My prayers are with you. If you have an email addy we can talk if you like. I am Pat Barretts sister in law.
Glenn Thompson
May 18, 2010
A national treasure, from my home state of Utah. Thanks for the great play for the Rams. Rest well.
Malachi 1:11~from the sun’s rising...my name will be great... Jehovah of armies has said.
M. Deshawn ~John 5:28,29
April 19, 2010
To the Olsen Family,
When I remember Merlin Olsen it is of his gentle smile. Although you couldn’t miss his huge presence and stature, the warmth and civility in his eyes tempered it so that he always was approachable. It is what made him such a joy to watch on T.V. He was a good man so be comforted by the good name he left behind, …A name is better than good oil, and the day of death than the day of one’s being born ~Ecclesiastes 7:2.
Once again my sincere condolences…
S. L.
April 11, 2010
To the Olsen Family,
Please accept my sincere condolences.
I just watched Tim McCarver's interview with Mr. Olsen, and had to post my thoughts regarding what I felt during this most inspiring discussion.
Mr. Olsen was intellectually brilliant as well as a highly talented athlete, commentator and actor.
He will be missed.
March 29, 2010
For Merlin...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Gary Waugaman
March 28, 2010
As a Rams fan going back to my first season tickets in 1970, I can say that Merlin Olsen was my favorite player ... on any team, at any time. Of course there was his aggressive play to consider. But the thing I took away from watching him all those years was that he was a very rare thing on the field: a gentleman. He played hard, but fair, and never resorted to cheap shots. Too bad that more of the current day players don't have his moral and ethical compass guidng them.
Latrice Rice
March 24, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you all in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. And may God Bless you and bring you peace.
Susan Ahearn
March 22, 2010
How sad to read that Mr. Olsen died of a disease that most likely could have been prevented. Those of us who have lost loved ones to mesothelioma are glad that his cause of death was listed. Every chance to bring this disease to the forefront is important. Research is greatly needed. All the folks who lived through 9-11 are in great danger of developing this type of cancer. Mr. Olsen lasted the "normal" expectancy of those diagnosed....12-18 months. Love and prayers to Mr. Olsen's family from those still grieving for another meso death (my mother).
March 22, 2010
I Loved his character "Jonathan Garvey" on "Little House". He will now live on in my memory! May GOD bless you all. I am truly saddened by his passing! Sincerely, Renee (Toman) Faschingbauer
March 22, 2010
For Merlin...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
March 22, 2010
I'm sorry for this loss of a legend. For the big burley man that he was, he seemed like a gentle man. I loved his role in The Little House on the Prairie. My condolences go out to his family.
marie ebert
March 22, 2010
he will be missed by alot.
Cherry
March 22, 2010
I loved LHOTP, and I loved the character that Mr. Olsen played. Jonathan Garvey was so kind and also very handsome. I loved the way he and Michael Landon really portrayed a friendship. I am sure they were friends offscreen too. I'm so glad to know that he was a Godly man and that he's gone on to Heaven. What a blessing that is for his family. Thank you Mr. Olsen for all the wonderful television programs.
Ken
March 22, 2010
One of the best
March 22, 2010
Such a neat guy! His soft side always came through. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Merlin will be missed.
Anna Greene
March 22, 2010
In memory of a great man he will be missed.
March 21, 2010
Merlin Olsen was great1 extremely talented!
March 21, 2010
For Merlin...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Joyce Hines
March 21, 2010
What a great all American human being. He'll be missed by so many. I loved him in every show he starred in. My prayers are with the family.
gary
March 21, 2010
he was a great roll model .........he will be missed
Linda Edmonds
March 21, 2010
The world has lost a great person. Will miss him.
WONDA GAIL ROMANO
March 21, 2010
HE WILL ALWAYS AND FOREVER BE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND WE WILL THINK OF HIM WHEN WE WATCH OUR BEST SHOW 'LITTLE HOUSE, MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS, NOW U CAN BECOME THERE GARDEN ANGLE.AN TRUE FAN ALWAYS , WONDA GAIL ROMANO, JACKSONVILLE,ILL
Medb
March 20, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mary Evans
March 20, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with all your family and friends at this time of sorrow. Mr. Olsen was a great actor and a great addition to the Little House on the Prairie show. I grew up watching these heartwarming films and I still do when I can.
Mr. Olsen will be greatly missed.
God Bless you all,
Prayers,
The Evans Family, Goose Creek, SC
George+Mandy
March 20, 2010
God Bless + comfort your family at this
time of loss until we all be joined to-
gether in His Holy Kingdom. Merlin was a joy to behold on the football field (save for the team on the other side)+ and on T.V.!!!
Joan Willis Duby
March 20, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Charles L
March 20, 2010
To the family and friends, as you know your loss is shared by many. But I would like to encourage you from God's words the Bible. Please read at (John 5: 28-29, Rev. 21: 3-4) what Jehovah God and his son Jesus Christ are going to do to mankind's common enemy DEATH, when God's kingdom has come completely to the earth. So take courage and find comfort from the scriptures.
In Memory of
March 20, 2010
Mr. Olsen was a good example of good sportsmanship as well as a wonderful actor. Sorry to hear about his passing. I want to express my deepest sympathy to his family and thank them for sharing such a wonderful man with us. May God Bless all of you through this difficult time.
JOHN LABUFF
March 19, 2010
A SUPER FOOTBALL PLAYER AND A GREAT ACTOR.
Mike & Connie Storey
March 19, 2010
Merlin Olsen was legend in football on and off the field. He was a true gentleman. He also was a loving, "gentle giant" on Little House. He will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are to his family, Sincerely, Mike & Connie Storey
March 19, 2010
mark and trish keefer nc
Nancy Dickinson
March 19, 2010
I am so saddened at Merlins' passing away. He was a gentle giant on Little House on The Prairie. Nancy Dickinson AZ
Sherry
March 19, 2010
I was sadden to hear of the passing of Merlin Olsen. I spent many hours watching the different shows that he starred in. I also had the pleasure of listening to him speak at my niece's graduation in 1988. I was impressed that he would take the time to come to our small town of Weiser. Thank you Merlin.
March 19, 2010
you were a great man and a legend in so many ways. i remenber you most from LHP MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY RIP
Mike Murphy
March 19, 2010
Merlin was the epitome of class. He and Dick Enberg were a joy to listen to covering the AFC in the 80's Condolences to the family
March 19, 2010
THE WORLD HAS LOST A GREAT MAN. MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE OLSEN FAMILY. REST IN PEACE.
IN HOC,
TIM GLOVER
ALABAMA
Randy & Sharon Park
March 18, 2010
How sad we were to hear of Merlin's passing... He was such a joy to watch through the years, especially on "Little House" and "Father Murphy". He always chose quality work.. God bless his family... they are in our prayers and thoughts...
March 18, 2010
My heart goes out to the Olsen family, the world has lost a great man.
Gregory Rainey
Oakwood, Ga.
Lora Bacigalupi
March 18, 2010
You were a great part of my children's lives growing up with "Little House on the Prairie"!What a thrill it was for us when you were the Commencement Speaker for our son's graduation at Utah State University in 2005. You will be truly missed!
Gwenda O'Sullivan
March 18, 2010
One of the gentle spirits has left us. Our loss. What a wonderful human being. He will be missed. My sympathy to his family and friends. May your memories always burn bright in your hearts.
Carol Dalton
March 18, 2010
My deepest sympathies to the Olen family. I admired Merlin as a football player and as an actor. He will be missed.
March 18, 2010
For Merlin...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Barbara Moore
March 18, 2010
My heartfelt sympathies to the Olsen family in the time of such loss. Merlin will be greatly missed for he was a true champion in every sense of the word.
KIMBERLY COOPER
March 18, 2010
I am truly sorry for your loss i was a big fan along with my father.I will pray for your family GOD BLESS! Kimberly Cooper Bradenton,FL
Amelia Wall
March 18, 2010
My deepest sympathies to Mr. Olsen's family and friends.
He had a wonderful smile and a gentle spirit about him and he will certainly be missed.
William Barrett
March 17, 2010
I was too young to know him personally, but he was a very close friend of my family. My mother recalls having him in her Sunday school class, and that he was always "a head taller" than the other kids.
My dad, a former scoutmaster, often recounted the day Merlin came up to him and asked, "Mr. Barrett, do you know when can I become a boy scout?"
Patricia Erickson
March 17, 2010
condolences to his family and friends and to his many fans. he was a kind gentle giant and was a fabulous actor
March 17, 2010
i grew up with merlin i went all through grade school jr high and high school he was a very wonderful person we had alot of fun together
we would play cowboys and indians way back when merlin we will miss you love to your family shirley davis
John & Rachelle
March 17, 2010
My husband and I had the great pleasure of spending many hours working with Merlin. He was an inspiration and role model to many. My heart was saddened by his passing, but knowing he is no longer in pain is a blessing. Our love goes out to the Olsen family and all his friends and other loved ones. God bless you.
Louise J
March 17, 2010
What a wonderful human being, I so admired him in his work on the (Little House On The Prarie). So down to earth and a great actor. So sorry for you loss.
Barb and Wayne Baumgardner
March 17, 2010
We've lived next to Merlin for the last 16 years and respected him as a quiet, dignified, talented neighbor. We would watch him ski out his door daily with grace and skill! Our condolences to Susan and his family.
March 17, 2010
I never met Mr. Olsen, but he was my age, and I spent many an hour watching him, one of the greatest of football players, perform his craft. My respects to the family.
William Coggins (Jacksonville, Alabama)
March 17, 2010
I meet Mr. Olsen in Odessa, Texas some time between 1989-1992, (sorry I can't remember the exact year.). It was at a Florist Convention, he was the spokesman for FTD. I have a picture of him, my friend Mary and myself and he signed it also, it is in my photo album. He was a very nice man. He will be missed....Tammy N. (Carlsbad, NM)
Norm Pollom
March 17, 2010
For Fourteen years from 1962 until 1976 I had the wonderful experience to be a small part of a Great Persons Life. Watching him grow into perhaps the Greatest Defensive player of all time. But above football Merlin was an example to all. A kind humble man, who loved the underdog & the less fortuned. He was a joy to be around in football days & later years. God Bless Merlin. Rest in Peace. There are givers & Takers, Merlin was a Giver
Sharon S.
March 17, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Merlin Olson. This is a great loss. I send my sympathy to his family.
Shaun
March 17, 2010
My sympathies to Mr. Olsen's family. Please take comfort in the Bible's promises for the future in connection with those we've lost in death.
Kerri Poire
March 17, 2010
I'm so sorry for your loss. He was someone I always looked up to. Little House On The Prairie and Father Murphy were my favorite shows when I was a kid. May he rest In peace.
Joni Dugan
March 17, 2010
I never knew Merlin as a football player, but I have cried over many an episode of Little House. I loved him and admired him, along with Michael Landon. He will be missed, but his legacy and memory will live on. May his legacy live on in each father in today's world!
cindy
March 17, 2010
so sorry to hear of his loss, he was a gentle giant, i loved him in Little House on the Praire and Father Murphy. I know he was an accomplished football player as well, but i don't watch many sports, so i only remember his acting skills. May his family and friends find peace and comfort with each other and their many memories.
Sherry
March 16, 2010
I was so sad to read about Merlin Olsen. I loved him in Little House On The Prarie and Father Murphy. He will be greatly missed by all. I can only imagine Michael Landon's joy in seeing Merlin again (and so soon)!
God Bless you, his family and friends. May the great memory's you have of him bring you the peace and comfort you need to get you through the tough days ahead.
Sherry from Provo Utah
Donna Patchen
March 16, 2010
Oh Mr. Olsen you will be missed by anyone who watched you! Because if they watched you on little house they knew. My thoughts and prayers to all the family you were such lucky people to have him in your lives. Thanks for sharing him all these years.
March 16, 2010
For Merlin...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Irma Cash
March 16, 2010
Thank you for all the joy that you brought into our lives, on Little House On the Prarie. Rest in peace.
Jack C. Baxter
March 16, 2010
You will be surely missed.
March 16, 2010
What an amazing man he was.
TIFFANY OWENS
March 16, 2010
WATCHED THIS WONDERFUL MAN SINCE I WAS A LITTLE GIRL, MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY...I WILL NEVER FORGET MR. GARVEY NOW HE IS WITH HIS FRIEND MICHEAL LANDON...
Barb Singer
March 16, 2010
HE WILL BE SADLY MISSED.
John Hutchinson
March 16, 2010
Olsen Family'
Sorry to hear of your loss, I have been thinking about you and yours.
JOHN HUTCHINSON
Melissa Wright
March 16, 2010
I knew Mr.Olsen as Mr. Garvey on little house he was a nice and gentleman like my Tommy .
Merlin was a good actor and he will be sadly missed but "GOD" needed him for something .
Carol Parker
March 16, 2010
Merlin was a wonderful actor. Enjoyed
him in "Little House". Will be sadly
missed by all. Condelences to his family.
March 16, 2010
I truly enjoyed him on Little House.
God bless him.
Joyce M.
Louisville, KY
Linda Sutton
March 16, 2010
My thought and prayers are with the Olsen Family in their time of need. The childen in our world have lost a great role model. Thanks to reruns Mr. Garvey will not be fogotten, but will surely be missed.
Rose West
March 16, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. The world has truly lost one of it's treasures.
March 16, 2010
Merlin Olson was one of the best loved characters of mine, He will be sadly missed but will be always in our hearts.
Carolyn Moore
March 16, 2010
Hi, I am a SC florist in Duncan, just love hearing the voice messages by Mr. Olsen.. May God Bless and keep the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn's Florals and Baskets, Duncan, SC
r collier
March 16, 2010
I watched Merlin Olsen as part of that awesome Rams defensive unit. Later as an actor on Little House. A giant of a man and one who seemed to genuinely care about others. We have lost a role model for our youth. Rest in peace. Blessings to your family.
d. meyers
March 16, 2010
there are very few who transcend the impersonal nature of television.. his personality could be 'felt' by millions of viewers.. the warmth, the genuine caring and consideration of those less fortunate.. he, in yiddish, was a mensch... a real human being... my only regret was never having the opportunity to meet him in person... thank you merlin, for sharing yourself with us... you were a treasure... may god bless....
Joyce Gains
March 16, 2010
I am a huge fan of Little House on the Prairie and still enjoy watching reruns every chance I get and "John Garvey" was always a favorite of mine! Peace Merlin Olsen
margie nunley
March 15, 2010
To your family thanks for sharing with us such a wonderful actor. He touched many hearts in his roles i loved to watch him show what kind of a man he was. May you be comforted with his memories as you deal with your tremendous loss.
Pauline Marques
March 15, 2010
I loved watching Mr. Olsen on Little House on the Prairie while I was growing up in New Orleans. He was certainly a role model to those of us who grew up in the 1970's. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very difficult time.
March 15, 2010
My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time of the loss of such a great man. I will really miss Merlin's smiling face at the Fresh Market in Park City. He truly is a legend.
GEORGE BUIS
March 15, 2010
MERLIN, I KNOW THE PAIN YOU FELT. I WAS A SHIPYARD LAGGER FOR 26 YEARS. I BEEN TO YOUR CHILDHOOD HOME LOGAN" AND I BEEN TO YOUR SCHOOL "UTAH STATE". I WATCHED YOU ON TV AS A FAN.. GOD LOVES YOU.
Jean Harell
March 15, 2010
Sad to loose such a happy part of my childhood memories. You were my hero on Little House On The Prairie. I will never forget your smile. Rest in peace and may God comfort your family and friends!
shirley irving
March 15, 2010
Prayers to your family. I always loved you in Little House on the Praire and Father Murphy. Your football days were awesome. You will always be remember as a gentle giant of a man. My condolences to your family. God bless your family.
Ricky Nichols
March 15, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Showing 1 - 100 of 526 results
Make a Donation
in Merlin Olsen's name
How to support Merlin's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Merlin Olsen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored