How To Mention Donations Instead of Flowers in an Obituary?

Writing an obituary requires thoughtful decisions, such as how to commemorate the life of someone you loved. Instead of the usual floral arrangements, many families request contributions to a charity or cause. It is important to present this decision in a respectful way. The obituary should contain clear words about donations, include details on where and how to donate, and why the designated cause was important to the deceased. Obituaries can also help mention alternative ways to remember the deceased, like donating to a memorial fund. A sensitive and well-written request allows friends and family to know the preference and continue to help preserve the person’s legacy.

How Do You Request Donations in Lieu of Flowers in an Obituary?

Requesting donations instead of flowers in the memory of a deceased person is an emerging trend. Follow these tips while requesting:

• Be Direct in Your Wording for Clarity

If asking for donations instead of flowers, be clear about the request in your obituary. Using simple wording like, "In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to [insert charity name]," will prevent any confusion. A brief introduction of the organization, if necessary, also puts the request into context and will help the reader understand why they should respond to this request.

• Specify Chosen Charity

Also, give the full name of the charity or organization because if you hide this information, there may be a problem with people donating to this charity or organization. If you have the right to mention the cause that the deceased person was interested in, don't forget to mention it. For example, if they supported medical research, education, or community programs, you may highlight that connection. 

• Include Instructions to Make Donations

Providing clear donation instructions allows the well-wishers to donate easily. That could include information on how to mail donations or any special instructions. It is better to provide a preferable procedure, such as donating via a memorial page, so that there is no confusion.

• Explain Why Donations Matter

Providing context on why donations are preferred over flowers. If, for example, the individual who passes away holds a strong belief in funding for cancer research or a local shelter, sharing this information helps everyone better understand the emotional connection between the person and the cause. 

• Consider a Memorial Fund

In other cases, a memorial fund is another option if the family or loved ones have not chosen a specific charity. Many families create funds to promote causes that matter to loved ones. It can also help cover funeral expenses or support a legacy project. Also, it gives you an opportunity to honor the memory of the deceased in a meaningful way.

• Provide Contact Information for Assistance

Others might need more information before donating. Listing a contact person, such as a family member or the funeral director, allows people to ask questions. An email or phone number gives donors a way to get the guidance they require.

• Follow A Respectable Tone

An obituary is a way to honor someone you love, so the wording should be respectful. Avoid making it sound like an obligation. Present it as a way to pay tribute to the loss of someone special.

For those who are uncertain how to phrase the request, it is acceptable to include a statement such as, “In loving memory of [name], please make a donation to [charity name] in lieu of flowers.” This allows the message to be on point and direct.

• Ensure Charities Are Notifying Donors Before You Post

Make sure that the selected charity accepts donations and the process for doing so before finalizing the obituary. Certain organizations have guidelines for memorial donations. This will help with the accuracy of the obituary and continue to prevent problems for those who want to contribute.

• Multiple Platforms

These notices may appear in newspapers, memorial pages, or online, including social media. This allows everyone who wants to honor the deceased to have access to the information since the donation request appears on multiple platforms. This also assists in contacting out-of-town friends and relatives who may not have attended the service.

Alternative Phrases for "In Lieu of Gifts"

You can say, ‘The gift of your company is the only gift needed’ or ‘Your presence is our present.’

Conclusion

When listing memorial gifts, a request against flowers and a preferred cause gives mourners an opportunity to give in a helping way. To do this, name the charity you have selected, explain why you are making the request, and include instructions for donating. Sharing the request on different platforms ensures more people see it. Always choose the wording of the obituary carefully so that it reaches friends and family in a respectful tone. This allows them to observe the life lived and want to support a meaningful cause. In Oklahoma City obituaries, such requests often appear to memorialize a loved one, which adds personal significance to your charitable contribution.