In Memory Of

Why this story is important

Writing a memorial story for someone dear—whether a family member, friend, or mentor—is one of the most meaningful acts of love and remembrance you can create. It transforms grief into gratitude and preserves the essence of their life for generations to come.

A written tribute captures more than dates and facts—it preserves their laughter, kindness, sayings, and the way they made people feel.
Through storytelling, they continue to live on in the hearts of others, even those who never met them. Memories fade, but stories endure. Every life touches others in unique ways. A tribute story acknowledges their character, values, achievements, and the ways they inspired or cared for others. It’s a public or private way of saying, “Your life mattered, and here’s how.”

A memorial story becomes a family heirloom—something children, grandchildren, or friends can read years from now to understand who that person truly was. It gives future generations a sense of belonging and continuity, connecting them to their roots through the stories that shaped the family. A well-told tribute turns remembrance into legacy.

Preparation checklist

• Gather your thoughts and materials. Review your journals and notes that might help you remember details.
• Browse your photo albums to stimulate memories and choose the photos you might want to use in the story.
• Decide who you’ll share the finished story with. Just yourself? Family? Friends? Public post? Thinking about your audience in advance will help guide what memories and details to include and which ones to leave out.

How to use the Times of My Life App to capture your story:

*The Virtual Biographer has instant access to similar stories written and shared by millions of other people. It knows what questions to ask and in what order. It can help you relive events, thoughts and feelings. It can help illuminate the essence of your experience and then craft a story that is uniquely yours. If a question doesn’t seem relevant to your experience, just skip it. Answer at least five questions. Tap “Next” and tap “Additional Details” to speak or type from memory.

Add media, save and publish as a printed piece, audiocast, and/or video

Insert photos and video clips wherever you want them to appear in the story narrative. Add voice narration and background music if you want to create an audiocast or video, in addition to a printed piece.

Share and revise as desired

After the story is written by you or your virtual biographer, you can “share” it through he app with friends and loved ones. Their feedback can provide valuable perspective and help you improve your story. After you get their feedback you can go back and edit the story as desired — or ask the Virtual Biographer to rewrite it with the feedback!

Related Stories

• Obituary
• Unexpected Loss
• Remember Me
• Death of Loved Ones

Write the Story Yourself: Suggested Outline

💞 1. Introduction — Who They Were to You

• Who is this story about? Share their name, your relationship, and what made your bond special.
• What words come to mind when you think of them?
• When and how did you first meet (or, if family, your earliest memory of them)?

Example: “My grandmother, Eleanor, was a quiet force of nature whose laughter filled every room she entered.”

🌟 2. Their Life and Character

• What made them unique—personality, passions, talents, or habits?
• What did they love doing most?
• Were there special sayings, traditions, or quirks everyone remembers?
• What values or beliefs guided their life?

Tip: Focus on the essence of who they were—not just what they did, but how they lived.

🪞 3. The Moments You’ll Never Forget

• Share a favorite story or memory that captures their spirit.
• Describe a time they made you laugh, comforted you, or inspired you.
• How did they show love or strength in everyday life?

Example: “Even when her arthritis made it hard to hold a pen, she’d write birthday cards to everyone in the family.”

🌿 4. Lessons and Legacy

• What did you learn from them—through their words, example, or presence?
• How did they shape who you are today?
• What parts of them live on through you or others?

Reflection: This section connects their story to your own continuing journey.

💐 5. Saying Goodbye and Giving Thanks

• How did their passing affect you or your family?
• What emotions come up as you write this story—gratitude, love, peace, or longing?
• If you could say one thing to them now, what would it be?

Example: “I still talk to you in the car sometimes. I hope you know how much you’re missed—and how much you’re loved.”

🌈 6. Closing Tribute — A Life Remembered

• Summarize their impact in a few heartfelt sentences.
• Include a favorite quote, scripture, lyric, or personal message that captures their spirit.
• End with a wish or blessing for how you hope their memory continues to inspire others.

“You taught us that kindness never goes out of style. We’ll carry that light forward.”

📸 Optional Additions

Invite family members to add their own stories or reflections.

Add photos, a favorite poem, or a short video tribute.

Include details from their celebration of life or memorial service.

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