We know it's not easy to write an obituary. You're probably grieving, and it can be hard to know exactly what's important to include or what to say to honor your loved one's memory. Take a deep breath ...

Ms. McMasters is the author of “The Leaving Season: A Memoir.” I wrote my obituary last week. I often do so once a year; it has become a kind of ritual. I’ve met a few others who do the same or ...