Submit an Obituary

The Washington Post writes news obituaries about some individuals who lived in the Washington area for a large part of their lives. Individuals we write about will generally have lived here for at least 20 uninterrupted years, and for more years than they lived elsewhere. They also will have had substantial involvement in their communities through employment or membership in religious, civic or other organizations.

We rely heavily on readers to supply us with information for news obituaries. To do so, use the e-mail form below, e-mail us the information requested below or fax it to us at (202) 334-6553.

Please call us at (202) 334-6477 after submitting your information to confirm receipt and answer follow-up questions. We're open 365 days a year and are easiest to reach during regular business hours.

Submission Guidelines

Review the following guidelines before submitting obituary information for consideration:

  • Please complete our questionnaire fully.
  • We do not publish news obituaries more than a month after an individual's death. Make your submission as soon as possible.
  • We do not include funeral or memorial information in news obituaries.
  • We cannot guarantee publication.

News obituaries are editorial features distinct from paid death notices. If you are interested in submitting a paid death notice, call (202) 334-4122 or e-mail us. (You can also read paid death notices online.)

Required Information

Deceased first name:

Last name:

Birth date:

Date of death:

Place of death:

Specific cause of death:

Town of residence:

Work history:

Birthplace:

When deceased live in the region:
High school(s), including graduation year:
College(s), including school, degrees and graduation year:
Military service:

Other honors:

Washington-area group memberships and volunteer work:
All marriages, including names of spouses, lengths, and reasons for end (in case of divorce or death of spouse):
Names and current residences of all survivors, including spouse, children, siblings and parents; number of grandchildren:
Your name and phone number:

Your e-mail:

Name and telephone number of funeral home:
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