OBITUARY WRITING
Every Life
Leaves a Story
I help families tell the story of a loved one with care, dignity, and attention.
Through a simple conversation, I gather memories, milestones, relationships, and the details that made someone uniquely themselves. I then craft a personalized obituary that honors their life and can be shared with family, friends, funeral homes, newspapers, websites, or memorial programs.
Whether you need a traditional obituary, a longer life tribute, or help finding the words when none seem available, I am here to help.
Why This Work Matters
As a death doula and grief educator, I have spent years accompanying people through illness, dying, loss, and remembrance.
Again and again, I have seen how difficult it can be to find words during grief.
An obituary is more than an announcement. It is often the first act of collective remembering. It becomes part of the historical record of a person’s life and a touchstone for those who love them.
Writing these stories is an honor I approach with great care.
How It Works
We Talk
We’ll schedule a conversation about your loved one’s life, relationships, passions, and memories.
I Write
Using what you share, I create a thoughtful obituary that reflects the person behind the dates.
You Review
You’ll receive a draft to review and request any changes before the final version is delivered.
What Families Receive
A one on one conversation by phone or video
A professionally written obituary
One round of revisions
Delivery within 48-72 hours (or expedited when possible)
A compassionate and collaborative process
Pricing
Obituary Writing: Starting at $250
Includes consultation, writing, revisions, and final delivery.
About Michelle Carrera
Michelle Carrera is a writer, death doula, grief educator, and ordained interfaith animal chaplain.
Her work explores grief, memory, ecology, ancestry, and what it means to remain in relationship to those we love after death.
She believes every life deserves to be remembered with care.
She had a way of making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. Her laughter was contagious, her hugs legendary, and her love endless.
- In memory of a beloved mother and friend
Sample Excerpts
Every life is unique. Here are a few excerpts from recent obituaries I’ve written.
A lifelong teacher in every sense of the word, he believed in curiosity, kindness, and the power of a good question.
- In memory of devoted educator and mentor
He found joy in the small things: early mornings, old records, the ocean, and long conversations that wandered just where they needed to go.
- In memory of a partner, musician, and storyteller
Frequently Asked Questions-
I will guide you through the process with simple questions and prompts.
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Yes.
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Yes. Families come in many forms. I am comfortable working with chosen family, close friends, partners, community members, and anyone entrusted with helping tell the story of a loved one’s life.
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Yes. I can provide versions formatted for newspapers and online memorials. And offer help in the process.
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Most projects are completed within 48-72 hours.