1.  Start with the obituary, as that will give you some basic information without having to chase it down all over again.  Remember to also include active links in your article, if appropriate, too.  It is actually best if you write it in Notepad, as it can be copied and pasted here without having to remove formatting that Word includes by default.  You can also compile it in an email, too.  I would prefer to not have hand-written submissions, but I will take what I can get!

2.  Expand on the information already in the obituary.  Go into as much detail as you can, while keeping the reader’s interest in mind.  Expand into other areas of the person’s life not covered in the obituary.  Please focus on “facts, facts, facts” and double check all dates and places carefully. 

3.  Emphasize the positives and use appropriate consideration when discussing any negatives about the person, especially as it might impact living descendants.  Include humorous and other real life situations to help show the person’s personality. 

4.  Consider writing in a third-person “reporter” format, saving personal commentary until the very end in a summary paragraph.  Avoid interjecting your own thoughts as much as possible and focus on facts.  A personal summary and dedication at the end is very appropriate.

5.  Have another family member collaborate on your efforts and proof your final draft prior to submitting it here.  Two heads are usually better than one anyway.  Please send your submission electronically so that it can be copied and pasted here.

6.  Some edits may be made in any submission, if necessary to maintain accuracy, correct grammar and maintain readability.  Bios may be updated at any time in the future, if new information or corrections are needed.

7.  If multiple submissions are received for one person, they will most likely be combined into a single biographical feature in the best way possible.  This is open either way, though.

8.  As a reminder, please do not list full names of living persons in your article.  They will be removed and replaced with other appropriate references if you should forget.  If you mention a living person in your article, please get their permission before sharing it here.

9.  Consider sharing a “day in the life” paragraph in your article.  Help to make your subject as real as possible for all future readers.  Other great things to share are favorite foods, favorite travel destinations, favorite television shows, music, hobbies, etc.  It can be as long or a short as you would like, although we would all like to know as much as possible, within reason.

10.  Please do not include text from copyrighted works here.  You may link to them, if appropriate, though.

11.  Enjoy the time you spend on this effort.  You are helping to write history, but don’t let that intimidate you.  Have fun and just give it your best shot!  J