What is the primary purpose of obituaries?

The primary purpose of obituaries is to publicly announce and commemorate a person’s death. Obituaries serve as important announcements in newspapers or online platforms that inform the community of the passing of an individual. They not only communicate the fact of death but also acknowledge the life and contributions of the deceased, allowing friends, family, and the broader community to share in the mourning and celebration of that person's life. This public announcement aspect helps to notify those who knew the deceased, often providing details about the funeral arrangements, memorial services, and ways to honor the memory of the individual.

While legal documentation of death, biographical summaries, and attendance lists of the funeral may be related aspects, they do not encompass the overarching goal of the obituary itself, which is primarily centered on the public announcement and remembrance of the individual who has passed away.