If your mom has passed away, writing a beautiful obituary is one powerful thing you can do to remember her.
Writing a good obituary or death notice for a mother is simpler than it sounds. The best obituaries for mothers are loving tributes to the mom or stepmom who has died. In fact, sometimes, simple wording in an obituary is the best way to communicate clearly just what your mom has meant to you.
As long as your mom’s obituary is heartfelt, it will be a meaningful way to honor her life and legacy.
To help you find the right words, this how-to guide includes simple obituary examples for mothers and stepmothers that may inspire you to write your own.
Ready to get started?
Ready to get started?
Ready to get started?
Our ObitWriter® can help you create an obituary for mom in minutes.
Our ObitWriter® can help you create an obituary for mom in minutes.
Our ObitWriter® can help you create an obituary for mom in minutes.
What to Include in a Mother's Obituary
When writing your mom’s obituary, include key details from her life and information about funeral or memorial services. Begin by announcing the death and then tell the story of your mother.
Follow these tips when writing an obituary for your mother:
Let everyone know that your mother has died.
Tell your mothers story.
If you wish, expand your mothers biography.
Include your Mothers family and friends.
Share funeral details.
Add donation and charity information.
Make sure to proofread before publishing.
Let everyone know that your mother has died.
Let everyone know that your mother has died.
Include details such as:
Date of death
Where she died, where she lived at the end of her life
Cause of death (especially important if you wish to raise awareness about a condition)
Example Intro Obituary Sentence
Joan Marilyn Carney Albertson, age 91, of Mobile, Alabama died August 30, 2018, in her hometown.
Tell your mom's story.
Tell your mom's story.
Start with a few basic facts about your mother:
Her date and place of birth
Schools attended, degrees earned
Occupation and places worked
Marriage
Where she lived
Her religious affiliation, place of worship
Example Biography for Mom's Obituary
Born June 19, 1927, Joan was the 9th of 11 children of Roger Stafford Carney (1889-1959) and Caroline Edwards Carney (1891-1936). The family moved often, residing at various times in Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. After her mother died of cancer, Joan and her young siblings spent time living with assorted family members. Eventually they found a home in Mobile, Alabama, with their older sister. Joan earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Alabama and worked as a bookkeeper before marrying Joseph Becket Albertson. They lived in Missouri where sons Dudley and George were born and then moved to Indiana, where they welcomed daughter Nancy. In the early 1960s, they moved to Alabama, eventually settling in Joan’s hometown of Tuscaloosa.
3. If you wish, expand your mother’s biography.
3. If you wish, expand your mother’s biography.
Here you can paint a more complete picture of who your mom was and what she cared about. Add details such as:
Her hobbies and interests
Membership in organizations
Community or military service
Causes she cared about
Challenges she faced
Places traveled to
Special family memories
Example Hobbies for Mom's Obituary
A college football fan her whole life, she also loved traveling and had visited all 50 states, Mexico, and Canada, over the course of a long series of cross-country road trips and camping adventures. Closer to home, she enjoyed a good book and a fish fry dinner.
Ready to get started?
Ready to get started?
Ready to get started?
ObitWriter® can help you create an obituary for mom in minutes.
ObitWriter® can help you create an obituary for mom in minutes.
ObitWriter® can help you create an obituary for mom in minutes.
4. Include your mother’s family and friends.
4. Include your mother’s family and friends.
Her loved ones are an important part of your mom’s life story. You can list close family members by name. Include:
Her spouse or partner (add former partners as appropriate)
Her parents
Any siblings
Her children
Grandchildren
It is common to list deceased family members separately from those who are surviving. It’s also okay to group survivors by category (such as, “8 grandchildren”) rather than include each individual’s name, especially if your mother’s family is large.
Example Family and Friends in Mom'b Obituary
A longtime resident of Mobile, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Becket Albertson, her brothers, and one sister. She is survived by her children, Dudley Albertson (Rachel) of Prichard, Alabama; George Albertson (Ellen), of Saraland, Alabama; and Nancy Albertson O’Dowd (William) of Mobile; a sister, Grace Carney Bickel (Fred) of Mobile; 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
Share funeral details.
Share funeral details.
Include all the details about any planned funeral or memorial services. Even if you’re having a private burial, you can let people know your mom’s final resting place.
Example Mom's Funeral Announcement
A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 16, at Eternal Gardens. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home.
Add donation information.
Add donation information.
Add donation information.
If you are requesting donations to a particular charity in memory of your mom, include the organization’s name and mailing address or website.
18 Examples of Sample Obituaries for Your Mother
A mom’s obituary can be as unique and interesting, as serious or humorous, as the mom herself. Below are simple examples of obituaries for moms, stepmoms, and mother figures – mothers who lived a long life, and moms who died much too soon; moms who passed away suddenly and moms who endured a long illness. Let these samples inspire you as you write the best obituary for your mother.
Obituary for a beloved mother
“Charlotte's daughter, Erica, was her ultimate passion, and she devoted herself to being the best mother possible… [to] her pride and joy, her guiding light, and her most treasured accomplishment…”A mother with a radiant spirit
“[Daniela’s] radiant spirit is carried on by her two beloved daughters… and grand-dog, Cannoli, who were her entire world…”The best mother
“[Debra’s] main focus in life was being the best mother that she could be, and despite giving 100% of herself to that endeavor, she still managed to pursue higher education, earning a double bachelor's degree… Debra loved her family and friends with the ferocity of a mother bear.”The best stepmom
“[Pamela] made her home in New Britain for many years with her little dog Duffy until life was interrupted and she met and married the love of her life… She became the best stepmom ever to Rob and Hailey. She made family meals to foster communication, bringing warmth and love to make our house a home. She shared her strong Catholic faith with Hailey and they became very close. She was a confidant to Hailey and her many friends. Pamela delighted in her daughter's successes…”An adoptive mother who impacted many
“Any student that went through her classroom learned and went on to achieve their goals in life. She impacted many lives and have many who affectionately call her mom… Catherine is survived by her daughter Nina… her son Alan… adopted daughter Joanne… She was adoptive mother to many who called her mom ‘C’.”A loving foster mother
“Beyond her pastoral work, Mona was also a loving mother and foster parent. She spread warmth and love not only within the church but also within her own family. Her children and foster children were blessed by her nurturing nature, guidance, and unconditional love.”An exemplary mother figure
“Antoinette was an exemplary mother figure and human being. She embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her family and friends.”A loving mother-in-law
“She has always been Tonya's heroic champion… She was Juan's first love… A loving and salty mother-in-law to Juan's wives, and a beloved Granny to his children and grandchildren… She once said to her daughter ‘When I die, cry a few tears and say a prayer to mourn my death and shame the devil. Then eat a good meal, have a few drinks, and dance to celebrate my life and remember me with joy.’”A brilliant academic and mother
“She broke many glass ceilings as one of the first women to chair a department in the USC School of Dentistry… Though Suzan was a brilliant academic, she felt that motherhood was her true calling. After the birth of Sarra, Suzan left USC to spend more time with her family. She moved with Ernest to Moraga, California and began a new career as a professor of dental hygiene… Suzan often brought Sarra along to her classes… inspiring a love of education in her daughter.”A military mom
“Darla's next assignment brought them to Alaska where they had all 4 of their children and stayed many years. Her final duty station brought the family to Guam. In 2001, Darla retired as Master Sergeant from the Air Force after serving 20 years… Darla always said the Air Force was the best thing she ever did, besides being a mom and nanna.”From stay-at-home mom to school bus driver
“After being a devoted stay-at-home mom, Gena pursued a career as a school bus attendant, eventually becoming a school bus driver and trainer. She formed strong bonds with the children on her bus route, always showing concern for their well-being.”Stay-at-home mom and special needs caregiver
“Oma was a stay at home mom raising her children and was a full-time special needs caregiver to her daughter, Phyllis... She enjoyed the outdoors and loved to spend her time camping, fishing, and sitting on her patio watching the birds. In later years, Oma loved to travel, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.”Stay-at-home mom and young widow
“She married Bill during the war, and began her career as a stay-at-home mom, raising 3 children. A long-time member of Holy Name of Jesus parish, she actively volunteered in activities to support the school and to be involved in her children's education. She spent many years working with their bingo program. A young widow, it was working at bingo that she met fellow widower Chester… whom she spent over 35 wonderful years with.”A mother who lived a long life
“Our loving mother, Esther… died peacefully on February 19 2024 in her home. She was 98 years old… As a young mother, she was a stay-at-home mom who was active in her children's activities and often the organizer. She was always someone her kids could go to for advice, love and comfort… With her divorce, Esther went to work full time in the political arena serving as Convention and Special Projects Director for the Republican State Central Committee, Executive Director of the Republican National Convention in San Diego (1972), Executive Director of the Committee to Reelect the President (Nixon)...”A mom with dementia
“Lucille was a very strong-willed woman and extremely independent. Unfortunately, that would all come to an end in mid-2023 when she was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia. Lucille could no longer live on her own. Her daughter Lisa moved in with her children and grandchildren to assist her mom with her daily living. During the course of Lisa taking care of her mom, Lucille had one last wish and that was to die peacefully in her home. A request that was granted. “A mom who fought breast cancer
“Connie was the quintessential sports mom and creator of many magical moments for her family and especially her three children: Samantha, Matthew, and Jessica. She devoted countless hours supporting her children with their education, providing advice on personal situations, and through their countless hobbies… Through her cancer journey, she taught those around her what it looks like to live bravely and always with joy and a smile. She was known for her trademark spunk, even until the end. Connie will forever be a bright, guiding light to her family and loved ones…”A young mom who died of breast cancer
“Aja… died of breast cancer on January 26… two days shy of her 42nd birthday… Aja is the mother of two beautiful boys whom she loved with all she had: Collin and Nolan. She enjoyed all the days she had with them, watching them grow and just "be kids." We pray that her boys always feel their mother's love.”A young mother gone too soon
“Our dear wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend Susana… was heading to her nephew’s football tournament with her family when their vehicle lost control on black ice. Susana passed away on the scene, while protecting her one-year-old baby girl…”
A mom’s obituary can be as unique and interesting, as serious or humorous, as the mom herself. Below are simple examples of obituaries for moms, stepmoms, and mother figures – mothers who lived a long life, and moms who died much too soon; moms who passed away suddenly and moms who endured a long illness. Let these samples inspire you as you write the best obituary for your mother.
Obituary for a beloved mother
“Charlotte's daughter, Erica, was her ultimate passion, and she devoted herself to being the best mother possible… [to] her pride and joy, her guiding light, and her most treasured accomplishment…”A mother with a radiant spirit
“[Daniela’s] radiant spirit is carried on by her two beloved daughters… and grand-dog, Cannoli, who were her entire world…”The best mother
“[Debra’s] main focus in life was being the best mother that she could be, and despite giving 100% of herself to that endeavor, she still managed to pursue higher education, earning a double bachelor's degree… Debra loved her family and friends with the ferocity of a mother bear.”The best stepmom
“[Pamela] made her home in New Britain for many years with her little dog Duffy until life was interrupted and she met and married the love of her life… She became the best stepmom ever to Rob and Hailey. She made family meals to foster communication, bringing warmth and love to make our house a home. She shared her strong Catholic faith with Hailey and they became very close. She was a confidant to Hailey and her many friends. Pamela delighted in her daughter's successes…”An adoptive mother who impacted many
“Any student that went through her classroom learned and went on to achieve their goals in life. She impacted many lives and have many who affectionately call her mom… Catherine is survived by her daughter Nina… her son Alan… adopted daughter Joanne… She was adoptive mother to many who called her mom ‘C’.”A loving foster mother
“Beyond her pastoral work, Mona was also a loving mother and foster parent. She spread warmth and love not only within the church but also within her own family. Her children and foster children were blessed by her nurturing nature, guidance, and unconditional love.”An exemplary mother figure
“Antoinette was an exemplary mother figure and human being. She embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her family and friends.”A loving mother-in-law
“She has always been Tonya's heroic champion… She was Juan's first love… A loving and salty mother-in-law to Juan's wives, and a beloved Granny to his children and grandchildren… She once said to her daughter ‘When I die, cry a few tears and say a prayer to mourn my death and shame the devil. Then eat a good meal, have a few drinks, and dance to celebrate my life and remember me with joy.’”A brilliant academic and mother
“She broke many glass ceilings as one of the first women to chair a department in the USC School of Dentistry… Though Suzan was a brilliant academic, she felt that motherhood was her true calling. After the birth of Sarra, Suzan left USC to spend more time with her family. She moved with Ernest to Moraga, California and began a new career as a professor of dental hygiene… Suzan often brought Sarra along to her classes… inspiring a love of education in her daughter.”A military mom
“Darla's next assignment brought them to Alaska where they had all 4 of their children and stayed many years. Her final duty station brought the family to Guam. In 2001, Darla retired as Master Sergeant from the Air Force after serving 20 years… Darla always said the Air Force was the best thing she ever did, besides being a mom and nanna.”From stay-at-home mom to school bus driver
“After being a devoted stay-at-home mom, Gena pursued a career as a school bus attendant, eventually becoming a school bus driver and trainer. She formed strong bonds with the children on her bus route, always showing concern for their well-being.”Stay-at-home mom and special needs caregiver
“Oma was a stay at home mom raising her children and was a full-time special needs caregiver to her daughter, Phyllis... She enjoyed the outdoors and loved to spend her time camping, fishing, and sitting on her patio watching the birds. In later years, Oma loved to travel, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.”Stay-at-home mom and young widow
“She married Bill during the war, and began her career as a stay-at-home mom, raising 3 children. A long-time member of Holy Name of Jesus parish, she actively volunteered in activities to support the school and to be involved in her children's education. She spent many years working with their bingo program. A young widow, it was working at bingo that she met fellow widower Chester… whom she spent over 35 wonderful years with.”A mother who lived a long life
“Our loving mother, Esther… died peacefully on February 19 2024 in her home. She was 98 years old… As a young mother, she was a stay-at-home mom who was active in her children's activities and often the organizer. She was always someone her kids could go to for advice, love and comfort… With her divorce, Esther went to work full time in the political arena serving as Convention and Special Projects Director for the Republican State Central Committee, Executive Director of the Republican National Convention in San Diego (1972), Executive Director of the Committee to Reelect the President (Nixon)...”A mom with dementia
“Lucille was a very strong-willed woman and extremely independent. Unfortunately, that would all come to an end in mid-2023 when she was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia. Lucille could no longer live on her own. Her daughter Lisa moved in with her children and grandchildren to assist her mom with her daily living. During the course of Lisa taking care of her mom, Lucille had one last wish and that was to die peacefully in her home. A request that was granted. “A mom who fought breast cancer
“Connie was the quintessential sports mom and creator of many magical moments for her family and especially her three children: Samantha, Matthew, and Jessica. She devoted countless hours supporting her children with their education, providing advice on personal situations, and through their countless hobbies… Through her cancer journey, she taught those around her what it looks like to live bravely and always with joy and a smile. She was known for her trademark spunk, even until the end. Connie will forever be a bright, guiding light to her family and loved ones…”A young mom who died of breast cancer
“Aja… died of breast cancer on January 26… two days shy of her 42nd birthday… Aja is the mother of two beautiful boys whom she loved with all she had: Collin and Nolan. She enjoyed all the days she had with them, watching them grow and just "be kids." We pray that her boys always feel their mother's love.”A young mother gone too soon
“Our dear wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend Susana… was heading to her nephew’s football tournament with her family when their vehicle lost control on black ice. Susana passed away on the scene, while protecting her one-year-old baby girl…”
FAQ - Mother's Obituary
FAQ - Mothers Obituary Questions
Obituary Sample for a Mother
[Mother's Name], a devoted wife, mother, grandmother [and great-grandmother (optional)], passed away peacefully on [date of death] at the age of [age]. Born in [city, state] on [date of birth] to [parents' names (optional)], [Mother's Name] will be remembered for her [positive personality traits (e.g., warmth, generosity, strength)]. She dedicated her life to her family, always there with [loving action (e.g., a listening ear, a warm embrace)]. [Optional: Briefly mention a hobby or interest she enjoyed]. [Mother's Name] is survived by her loving husband, [Father's Name]; children, [list of children's names]; grandchildren, [list of grandchildren's names (optional)]; and [number] great-grandchildren (optional). A memorial service will be held on [date] at [time] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to [charity name (optional)], a cause close to [Mother's Name]'s heart. Find more inspiration in our article below on how to write an obituary.
How do you write about a father who passed away?
Crafting a beautiful obituary for your mother goes beyond listing dates and titles. It's a chance to paint a portrait of the remarkable woman she was. Here's how to make it truly unique: Capture her essence: Instead of just "loving mother," delve deeper. Was she a fierce protector, a source of wisdom, or the life of the party? Use specific anecdotes that showcase these qualities. For example, "Her laugh could fill a room, and no family gathering was complete without her famous apple pie recipe, a tradition she patiently passed down to each grandchild." Highlight her passions: Did she lose herself in a good book, cultivate a breathtaking garden, or volunteer tirelessly for a cause? Weave these details into the narrative. Show, don't tell: Instead of stating she was kind, describe a time she went above and beyond for someone in need. Did she mentor a young neighbor or offer a helping hand to a struggling friend? Embrace her quirks: Did she collect quirky teapots or have a passion for classic movies? Highlighting these unique details adds personality and reflects her individuality. Let others contribute: Consider inviting siblings or close friends to share their favorite memories. This creates a richer tapestry of her life and the impact she had on different people. By capturing these unique details, your obituary becomes more than just an announcement. It becomes a heartfelt tribute that truly celebrates the extraordinary woman your mother was. Find additional insipriation in our Obituary Template examples below.
What does nee mean and how to reference maiden names
n an obituary, "née" (pronounced "nay") is used to indicate a woman's birth name, often referred to as her maiden name. Here's a breakdown of how "née" is used: Function: It clarifies a woman's last name before marriage, especially if her married name is different throughout the obituary. Placement: "Née" is placed directly before the woman's birth name. Example: "Mary Smith, née Johnson" - This clarifies that Mary's last name was Johnson before she married someone with the last name Smith. Alternatives to "Née": While "née" is the most formal way, here are some acceptable alternatives: "Born": "Mary, born Johnson" "Previously": "Mary, previously Johnson" No mention: If the obituary primarily focuses on her married life, you might not need to mention her maiden name at all. It's important to note: "Né" (with an accent on the "e") is the masculine form, but rarely used in modern obituaries. The use of "née" is more common in formal writing and obituaries, less so in everyday conversation. Choosing the Right Option: The best way to refer to a woman's maiden name depends on the context and desired level of formality. In an obituary, "née" is a perfectly acceptable and traditional way to acknowledge her birth name.
Obituary Sample for a Mother
[Mother's Name], a devoted wife, mother, grandmother [and great-grandmother (optional)], passed away peacefully on [date of death] at the age of [age]. Born in [city, state] on [date of birth] to [parents' names (optional)], [Mother's Name] will be remembered for her [positive personality traits (e.g., warmth, generosity, strength)]. She dedicated her life to her family, always there with [loving action (e.g., a listening ear, a warm embrace)]. [Optional: Briefly mention a hobby or interest she enjoyed]. [Mother's Name] is survived by her loving husband, [Father's Name]; children, [list of children's names]; grandchildren, [list of grandchildren's names (optional)]; and [number] great-grandchildren (optional). A memorial service will be held on [date] at [time] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to [charity name (optional)], a cause close to [Mother's Name]'s heart. Find more inspiration in our article below on how to write an obituary.
How do you write about a father who passed away?
Crafting a beautiful obituary for your mother goes beyond listing dates and titles. It's a chance to paint a portrait of the remarkable woman she was. Here's how to make it truly unique: Capture her essence: Instead of just "loving mother," delve deeper. Was she a fierce protector, a source of wisdom, or the life of the party? Use specific anecdotes that showcase these qualities. For example, "Her laugh could fill a room, and no family gathering was complete without her famous apple pie recipe, a tradition she patiently passed down to each grandchild." Highlight her passions: Did she lose herself in a good book, cultivate a breathtaking garden, or volunteer tirelessly for a cause? Weave these details into the narrative. Show, don't tell: Instead of stating she was kind, describe a time she went above and beyond for someone in need. Did she mentor a young neighbor or offer a helping hand to a struggling friend? Embrace her quirks: Did she collect quirky teapots or have a passion for classic movies? Highlighting these unique details adds personality and reflects her individuality. Let others contribute: Consider inviting siblings or close friends to share their favorite memories. This creates a richer tapestry of her life and the impact she had on different people. By capturing these unique details, your obituary becomes more than just an announcement. It becomes a heartfelt tribute that truly celebrates the extraordinary woman your mother was. Find additional insipriation in our Obituary Template examples below.
What does nee mean and how to reference maiden names
n an obituary, "née" (pronounced "nay") is used to indicate a woman's birth name, often referred to as her maiden name. Here's a breakdown of how "née" is used: Function: It clarifies a woman's last name before marriage, especially if her married name is different throughout the obituary. Placement: "Née" is placed directly before the woman's birth name. Example: "Mary Smith, née Johnson" - This clarifies that Mary's last name was Johnson before she married someone with the last name Smith. Alternatives to "Née": While "née" is the most formal way, here are some acceptable alternatives: "Born": "Mary, born Johnson" "Previously": "Mary, previously Johnson" No mention: If the obituary primarily focuses on her married life, you might not need to mention her maiden name at all. It's important to note: "Né" (with an accent on the "e") is the masculine form, but rarely used in modern obituaries. The use of "née" is more common in formal writing and obituaries, less so in everyday conversation. Choosing the Right Option: The best way to refer to a woman's maiden name depends on the context and desired level of formality. In an obituary, "née" is a perfectly acceptable and traditional way to acknowledge her birth name.
Obituary Sample for a Mother
[Mother's Name], a devoted wife, mother, grandmother [and great-grandmother (optional)], passed away peacefully on [date of death] at the age of [age]. Born in [city, state] on [date of birth] to [parents' names (optional)], [Mother's Name] will be remembered for her [positive personality traits (e.g., warmth, generosity, strength)]. She dedicated her life to her family, always there with [loving action (e.g., a listening ear, a warm embrace)]. [Optional: Briefly mention a hobby or interest she enjoyed]. [Mother's Name] is survived by her loving husband, [Father's Name]; children, [list of children's names]; grandchildren, [list of grandchildren's names (optional)]; and [number] great-grandchildren (optional). A memorial service will be held on [date] at [time] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to [charity name (optional)], a cause close to [Mother's Name]'s heart. Find more inspiration in our article below on how to write an obituary.
How do you write about a father who passed away?
Crafting a beautiful obituary for your mother goes beyond listing dates and titles. It's a chance to paint a portrait of the remarkable woman she was. Here's how to make it truly unique: Capture her essence: Instead of just "loving mother," delve deeper. Was she a fierce protector, a source of wisdom, or the life of the party? Use specific anecdotes that showcase these qualities. For example, "Her laugh could fill a room, and no family gathering was complete without her famous apple pie recipe, a tradition she patiently passed down to each grandchild." Highlight her passions: Did she lose herself in a good book, cultivate a breathtaking garden, or volunteer tirelessly for a cause? Weave these details into the narrative. Show, don't tell: Instead of stating she was kind, describe a time she went above and beyond for someone in need. Did she mentor a young neighbor or offer a helping hand to a struggling friend? Embrace her quirks: Did she collect quirky teapots or have a passion for classic movies? Highlighting these unique details adds personality and reflects her individuality. Let others contribute: Consider inviting siblings or close friends to share their favorite memories. This creates a richer tapestry of her life and the impact she had on different people. By capturing these unique details, your obituary becomes more than just an announcement. It becomes a heartfelt tribute that truly celebrates the extraordinary woman your mother was. Find additional insipriation in our Obituary Template examples below.
What does nee mean and how to reference maiden names
n an obituary, "née" (pronounced "nay") is used to indicate a woman's birth name, often referred to as her maiden name. Here's a breakdown of how "née" is used: Function: It clarifies a woman's last name before marriage, especially if her married name is different throughout the obituary. Placement: "Née" is placed directly before the woman's birth name. Example: "Mary Smith, née Johnson" - This clarifies that Mary's last name was Johnson before she married someone with the last name Smith. Alternatives to "Née": While "née" is the most formal way, here are some acceptable alternatives: "Born": "Mary, born Johnson" "Previously": "Mary, previously Johnson" No mention: If the obituary primarily focuses on her married life, you might not need to mention her maiden name at all. It's important to note: "Né" (with an accent on the "e") is the masculine form, but rarely used in modern obituaries. The use of "née" is more common in formal writing and obituaries, less so in everyday conversation. Choosing the Right Option: The best way to refer to a woman's maiden name depends on the context and desired level of formality. In an obituary, "née" is a perfectly acceptable and traditional way to acknowledge her birth name.
