How To Write An Obituary For A Brother

Losing a brother cuts deep. An obituary does more than record dates—it captures who he was, what mattered to him, and the memories you’ll carry forward. Below you’ll find a quick template, followed by a dozen examples reflecting different walks of brotherhood—choose the one that most feels like him, or mix and match.

Obituary Template For a Brother

Use this as your starting point. Fill in the blanks, then sprinkle in your own stories:

[Full Name], [age], of [City], passed away on [Date], [optional cause or “peacefully”], surrounded by [family/friends].

Born [Birthdate] in [Birthplace], [First Name] earned his stripes as [career or passion]. He loved [hobbies/traits].

He is survived by [names]; preceded in death by [names].

A service celebrating [First Name]’s life will be held at [Location] on [Date/Time]. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [Charity or cause].

12 Obituary Examples For A Brother

1. The Steady Rock

Michael “Mike” Carter, 52, of Seattle, passed July 10, 2024, after a sudden heart attack. Born May 3, 1972, in Spokane, Mike built a career in software design—but more than his resume, he was family’s go-to guy: the one who always had advice, or a spare key, or just time to listen. He leaves behind sister Laura and brother Tom. We’ll honor him August 2 at Madison Park; in Mike’s name, the family suggests donating to the American Heart Association.

2. The Blended-Brother Bond

David Nguyen, 35, of San Jose, joined our clan as a teen and quickly became “Super Dave”—cheering us on at games, cracking Dad jokes, and fixing anything with wheels. A mechanical engineer and cycling fanatic, he died August 1, 2024. He’s survived by stepsister Sara and brother Alex. Services are private; many ask that gifts go to Bikes for All.

3. The Mentor Brother

Thomas “Tommy” Lee, 48, of Oakland, passed July 15, 2024, after battling illness. An only child, he found family at work—mentoring junior designers at the firm he loved. Jenna, Rob, and Marco, his “work siblings,” will host a celebration July 30 at Jack London Square to remember his guidance and generous heart.

4. The Brother Taken Too Soon

Alex Martinez, 29, of Los Angeles, died June 20, 2024, in a car crash. His heart was as big as his volunteer spirit—feeding the homeless, organizing fundraisers. Survived by siblings Rosa and Miguel, his legacy carries on through the annual “Alex Cares” drive. Join us July 5 at St. Mary’s Church.

5. The Young Spirit

Jacob “Jake” Thompson, 17, of Fresno, left us May 10, 2024, after a sudden illness. A junior in high school, he lived for soccer goals and stargazing nights. Emma and Luke, his sister and brother, will remember him at a candlelight vigil May 17 on the school’s soccer field. In Jake’s honor, donations to Valley Children’s Hospital are appreciated.

6. The Brave Fighter

Aaron Patel, 38, of San Diego, lost his six-year battle with leukemia June 2, 2024—but never lost his sense of humor. Brother Rohan and wife Maya remember his hospital pranks and ice-cream runs during chemo. A memorial service is July 1 at Grace Lutheran Church; gifts to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society honor his courage.

7. The Guiding Big Brother

Daniel Rogers, 62, of Monterey, passed June 5, 2024. As the eldest of four, he was our compass—helping with college applications, teaching us to drive, and celebrating every milestone with pride. An avid gardener, his rose beds spoke of his patience and care. Sisters Karen, Linda, and Cathy invite you June 20 to Whispering Pines Nursery for a garden tribute.

8. The Gentle Little Brother

Kevin Jones, 24, of Santa Barbara, died May 28, 2024. Quiet and kind, he was always the first to lend a hand or offer a comforting word. Brother Michael and parents Tom and Susan will gather June 15 at East Beach—Kevin’s favorite sunset spot—to scatter his ashes and toast his gentle spirit.

9. The Brother and Best Friend

Nathan “Nate” Brooks, 45, of Sacramento, passed April 30, 2024. Originally our friend, he became my brother-in-law—and the closest confidant I’ve ever known. He loved craft beer and weekend hikes. Survived by wife Jill, brother Sam, and nephew Owen, we’ll celebrate Nate May 20 at Capitol Park.

10. The Veteran Brother

Joseph “Joe” Alvarez, 55, of San Diego, passed May 10, 2024, after health complications. A Navy veteran, he dedicated his post-service life to helping fellow vets find housing and jobs. Survived by sister Elena and brother Luis, a military honors ceremony will be held June 1 at Miramar National Cemetery.

11. The Artist Brother

Ethan “E.T.” Turner, 31, of Berkeley, died April 15, 2024. A graphic artist whose murals brought our city color, he leaves behind brother Ben and parents Mark and Rebecca. On May 5 at Uptown Alley, we’ll unveil a mural in his memory—vibrant as his spirit.

12. The Faithful Brother

Samuel “Sam” Reid, 50, of Marin County, passed June 8, 2024. As a deacon at St. Michael’s, he guided many through faith and doubt alike. Survived by brother David and sister-in-law Ruth, his funeral Mass is June 22 at St. Michael’s Church, followed by a potluck reception where we’ll share stories of his kindness.

Each of these examples shows how a few personal details—hobbies, quirks, relationships—can turn an obituary into a celebration of a brother’s life. Use them as inspiration to create a tribute that’s as unique as he was.